What the One Big Beautiful Bill Act means for Employers

In our latest episode of Take Charge with HELPcare, I had the pleasure of welcoming back John Kelly, a good friend and respected expert on healthcare policy. Last week, we explored what the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) means for individual consumers. This time, we shifted focus to what it means for employers—especially those in southern Minnesota, where insurance premiums are among the highest in the nation.

John unpacked some exciting opportunities that OBBBA opens up, particularly around direct primary care (DPC). One of the most significant changes is that DPC is no longer defined as health insurance. That may sound like a technicality, but it’s huge: it means employers can now offer memberships to clinics like HELPcare Clinic without conflicting with their existing insurance plans. Even better, starting in January 2026, HSA funds can be used to pay for DPC subscriptions. That’s a game-changer for affordability and flexibility.

We also talked about the growing trend of self-funded or level-funded plans, even among small employers. Not long ago, the idea of a 25-person company going self-funded would have been unheard of. Now, with tools like stop-loss insurance, it’s becoming a smart and viable path—especially when paired with DPC to control costs and improve predictability. That predictability is golden for businesses dealing with seasonal cash flow or economic uncertainty.

Another important point we covered was how employers can help low-wage workers navigate Medicaid renewals. It’s not just a paperwork issue—it’s a real risk for losing coverage. Fortunately, there are services available to help with this process, and I strongly encourage employers to look into them. Keeping employees covered is in everyone’s best interest.

Finally, we looked at an innovative new option: the Medicare Advantage MSA Group Waiver Plan. John has worked with the company owners to develop this benefit, which allows Medicare-eligible employees or their spouses to have their DPC subscription reimbursed. It’s a simple, low-friction way for employers to offer meaningful support to older or retiring employees.

This is a transformative time for employer-sponsored healthcare. I’m hopeful—and energized—by the way OBBBA is opening doors for smarter, more human-centered care.

Watch the episode:

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Lee Aase

Lee Aase is the founder of HELPcare LLC, which provides comprehensive membership, marketing and management services for provider-owned HELPcare Clinics, as well as metabolic health education and coaching for people interested in restoring health and reversing disease through lifestyle changes. Lee and his wife Lisa live in Austin, MN and have six married children and 18 grandchildren.