Founder of E Powered Benefits Ushers in a New Era of Transparent, Affordable, and Quality-Centric Health Plans
As the Founder and CEO of E Powered Benefits, David Contorno is not only challenging the status quo, he’s revolutionizing an industry that has long been resistant to change. E Powered Benefits offers health plan management for companies by sharing fees up-front, never allowing bonuses or carrier incentives in contracts.
In this Cover Story, we look into the journey of David Contorno, one that is marked by innovation, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to affordable and quality-centric health plans.
Empowering Employers and Employees
E Powered Benefits isn’t just a consulting firm; it’s a catalyst for change. The company’s groundbreaking health plans defy convention, aiming to reduce employer costs by 40-60% compared to traditional plans while providing employees with unprecedented benefits—no out-of-pocket expenses for most services. The core philosophy is to incentivize improved clinical outcomes, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for plan members.
David’s journey in the insurance industry began at the age of 12, but it wasn’t until he turned 17 that he found his passion in benefits and health insurance. For nearly 30 years, he dedicated his career to providing traditional broker services and offering conventional health plans. Alongside his insurance work, David also nurtured a love for photography, which led him to pursue a college education in the field. Despite his detour into photography, David’s professional path has predominantly remained rooted in the same industry he thrives in today.
A Passion Unveiled
David’s passion for benefits and health insurance has been a constant in his 3-decade long career, characterized by a shift from traditional brokering to an avant-garde model. His personal commitment extends beyond professional rhetoric, as he actively incorporates the principles he advocates into his own healthcare decisions. This authenticity serves as a beacon, challenging industry norms and emphasizing the importance of consistency and integrity.
Recognizing the transformative power of education, David engages in teaching and mentoring initiatives. By imparting his knowledge and experiences, he aims to create a ripple effect, encouraging others to adopt similar models. His approach involves challenging the status quo, questioning inconsistencies, and leading by example, creating a paradigm shift towards consistency and integrity.
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Teaching and Leading by Example
While E Powered Benefits does provide a full benefits package, its primary focus and unique selling proposition lie in revolutionizing the most crucial aspect of employment decisions: the health plan.
In the face of escalating healthcare costs, David Contorno advocates for empowering individuals with knowledge about financial assistance programs offered by non-profit hospitals under IRS Code 501r. Despite Americans being eligible for substantial bill reductions or waivers, hospitals often divert patients towards alternative payment options. David urges consumers to proactively understand and leverage these programs, emphasizing the significant tax benefits provided by non-profit hospitals.
David believes that teaching is a crucial element in achieving his goals. He actively engages in teaching and mentoring endeavors, which have proven to be highly rewarding. By sharing his knowledge and experiences, David often receives significant returns on his investment. He focuses on mentoring consultants individually, instructs the CHVA course developed by his partner Emma Fox, and frequently speaks in educational settings.
Furthermore, David believes in practicing what he preaches when it comes to healthcare consumption. He applies the same metrics and principles that he advises his clients to use when making healthcare decisions for himself and his family. It is essential to him that people recognize his commitment to action rather than mere words.
Over the years, David has been named as the Forbes Most Innovative Insurance Broker, BenefitsPro Broker of the Year, Validation Institutes Advisor of the Year, and has earned several other notable awards for his work in reforming the US healthcare system.
A Profit-Driven Model for True Health
Contorno’s vision extends beyond profit-driven healthcare, advocating for a system where profits arise from keeping individuals healthy. Rejecting the notion that healthcare systems must collapse if society attains true health, he envisions a scenario where everyone can access quality and affordable healthcare without financial burden. His call for a paradigm shift resonates in a society grappling with rising costs and subpar clinical outcomes.
David’s greatest professional risk was making the decision to stop selling traditional healthcare plans. Instead, he chose to tie his compensation to effectively reducing costs—a departure from the common practice where brokers and consultants are rewarded when their clients’ expenses rise. Additionally, he committed to actively participating in the care and well-being of each member on every plan they service.
E Powered Benefits distinguishes itself by offering completely transparent health plans, certified by www.AFHCA.org. Unlike conventional models, where employers contribute to a nebulous system, David’s plans prioritize clarity and accountability.
This shift in approach has yielded positive outcomes both clinically and financially. By actively engaging in members’ healthcare, David’s company has achieved improved clinical outcomes while simultaneously saving employers substantial amounts of money. Furthermore, they have gone the extra mile by waiving all members out-of-pocket costs, ensuring that individuals can access the necessary care without worrying about financial burdens that may jeopardize their basic needs, such as housing and food.
Driving Change
As a sought-after speaker and contributor, David Contorno actively participates in shaping conversations around healthcare. His ability to simplify complex concepts into relatable stories resonates with business owners and individuals alike. By shedding light on the flaws in the current healthcare model, he aims to inspire a collective shift in thinking and foster a society where quality healthcare is accessible to all.
David’s vision is focused on domestic expansion rather than global reach. He aspires to build a community of consultants, employers, and employees/patients who will challenge the flaws within the healthcare system, which is both detrimental and exorbitantly expensive. His goal is to create incentives for healthcare providers to prioritize better clinical outcomes, complete price transparency, and genuine honesty. David urges every business owner and patient to apply the same metrics, incentives, and intelligence they employ when making other purchasing decisions.
E Powered Benefits’ departure from traditional healthcare plans represents a significant professional risk that has reaped rewards. The company’s commitment to active member engagement has resulted in improved clinical outcomes and substantial cost savings for employers. By waiving out-of-pocket costs, E Powered Benefits ensures that individuals can access essential care without financial worries.
