Whole Person Health Management

Whole Person Health Management is more than just a wellness initiative—it is a risk management strategy. Because self-funded employers pay for claims directly, every unaddressed health factor (mental, physical, or social) represents a financial liability and a barrier to member well well-being.

Why does whole person health matter?

Case Study: Diabetes

2.6x

Diabetics are 2.6 times more expensive than non-diabetics.

50%↑

The prevalence of diabetes in Tennessee is nearly 50% higher than the national average.

161,000

There are approximately 161,000 Tennesseans that have diabetes but are unaware that they do.

Diabetics struggle with depression, energy, and “brain fog,” impacting quality of life and general productivity.

5-Year Windfall

Preventing or delaying the onset of Type 2 diabetes in just employee can generate over $50,000 in direct and indirect cost savings over a five-year period.

HCTN Diabetes Prevention pilot programs allow employers to experience a variety of management options.

Success Story

Chronic Illness Management Programs

Through our partnership with the Tennessee Department of Health, HCTN members have engaged in 9 pilot programs to identify and manage pre-diabetes, diabetes, and hypertension. Per a post-pilot survey, over 70% of our survey respondents implemented chronic illness management programs.

About the Program

Why does whole person health matter?

Case Study: GLP-1s

10.5%

As of 2025, GLP-1 drugs account for an average of 10.5% of total annual pharmacy claims for employers.

29%

Roughly 29% of employers now report that GLP-1 costs alone exceed 15% of their total annual claims.

$1,000 – $1,500

The average net GLP-1 costs to the plan remains between $1,000 and $1,500 per member per month.

Common GLP-1 side effects include, nausea, stomach pain, fatigue, loss in muscle mass, and in some cases pancreatitis and kidney issues.

Clinical Safety Net

Advanced Primary Care (APC) models that focus on intensive lifestyle intervention can reduce the long-term reliance on these high-cost specialty drugs by up to 58%.

Where GLP1 use is appropriate, APC acts as a “clinical safety net” that ensures the $1,200/month pharmacy spend translates into long-term health outcomes rather than “stranded spend.” HCTN Diabetes Prevention pilots and APC models combine to address GLP1s.

Success Story

Effective Primary Care

Through our partnership with the Tennessee Department of Health, HCTN has introduced a strategy to implement effective primary care. Of the 22 employers responding to our Effective Primary Care Survey, 64% are open to implementing more effective primary care strategies.

Value Happens When Employers Work Together

Your voice is important. Combined with other employers, it is unstoppable.

Join HCTN