Health and Welfare Plans
Hospitals that sponsor employee health and welfare plans carry significant fiduciary responsibilities under ERISA. Ongoing regulatory changes, increased transparency requirements, and heightened enforcement activity have made fiduciary oversight a critical area of focus for hospital leadership.
How MHA Solutions Supports Members
Through MHA Solutions, member hospitals have access to specialized support to help understand and fulfill fiduciary responsibilities related to health and welfare plans. Our approach emphasizes practical guidance, disciplined governance, and clear documentation to help hospitals reduce risk and demonstrate prudent decision‑making.
Support includes
• Guidance on ERISA fiduciary responsibilities for employer‑sponsored health and welfare plans, including governance structure and oversight practices
• Support related to fiduciary duties for plan design decisions, vendor selection, fee transparency, and ongoing monitoring
• Assistance navigating ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, and Consolidated Appropriations Act requirements as they relate to health benefits
• Tools, checklists, and expert resources to help identify compliance gaps and strengthen fiduciary processes
• Access to specialized expertise for complex fiduciary and regulatory matters impacting health plans
Why It Matters for MHA Members
Hospital leaders serving as plan fiduciaries are required to act prudently, document decisions, and operate health plans solely in the interest of participants and beneficiaries. Strong fiduciary practices help reduce exposure to audits, penalties, and litigation while reinforcing trust with colleagues. Through MHA Solutions, hospitals can strengthen fiduciary oversight, improve transparency, and demonstrate a well‑governed, defensible approach to managing health benefits in an increasingly complex environment.