In the early- to mid-2000s, if you were like most employers you were (and probably still are) fixated on controlling the increasing cost of health care. One of the many tools that came on the scene in those days was the consumer-directed health plan (CDHP). CDHPs, which often feature high-deductible component, were meant to increase employee awareness and accountability in the health services transaction.  The long-term goals were to control healthcare spending and make employees better consumers of health care.

This is the time of year for attending graduation parties and hearing, “I have an internship at (name of organization).” You generally give it a positive nod to affirm that that’s what you have to do to get your first great job out of school. Both you and the intern—and future employers—understand that it demonstrates motivation, that it is about paying one’s dues and getting experience.