Empowering Employee Health Coverage: Mission-Driven Approach of a San Diego Boutique Insurance Agency

San Diego Insurance Firm National Senior Benefit Advisors Named Top Workplace, Prioritizing Peopel Over Policies

SAN DIEGO, CA – November 30, 2025 – In a landscape often defined by metrics and bottom lines, National Senior Benefit Advisors (NSBA) is rewriting the rules of success. the San Diego-based insurance company has been recognized as the no. 1 Top Workplace among small businesses in San Diego, a testament to its unwavering commitment to both its customers and its employees.

Founded in 2013 by Mitch swersky and Shaun Hunsaker after the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, NSBA initially focused on navigating the complexities of the new healthcare system. The company quickly honed its expertise, specializing in Medicare coverage for seniors and helping them secure the best possible plans to meet their individual health needs.

“We wanted to take our expertise in insurance, and help people, and start something on our own,” Hunsaker explained. “Helping seniors was something that we’re both really passionate about.”

But NSBAS success isn’t solely rooted in its service offering. Swersky and Hunsaker built the company on a core ideology: improving the lives of customers and enriching the lives of team members. This isn’t just a slogan; it’s the driving force behind every decision.

“I think very few organizations out there really explain to their new hires or to their team, why do you even exist?” Swersky posited.”We’re improving our customers’ lives…and by doing so, we’re enriching our team members’ lives.”

This commitment translates into a workplace culture that prioritizes well-being and fosters loyalty. NSBA has experienced explosive growth, expanding its licensing to nearly 40 states and increasing its workforce from seven agents in 2018 to 81 full-time employees today, with plans to double that number by next year. Policy volume is up a remarkable 80% year-over-year.

However, growth hasn’t come at the expense of employee satisfaction. NSBA boasts an industry-leading average employee tenure, with salespeople staying for over two years – significantly higher than the 13-15 month average for call center agents. Many employees are celebrating four and five-year milestones with the company.

So, what’s the secret? NSBA goes beyond the typical perks. While they offer amenities like kombucha and cold brew on tap, and even allow employees to bring their dogs to work, the real differentiator lies in their approach to people management.

Key elements of NSBA’s award-winning workplace include:

* Values-Based Hiring: NSBA doesn’t just look for skills; they seek individuals who embody core values like integrity, work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to customer service.
* Holistic Support: The company actively supports employees through personal challenges, including health concerns, fostering a culture of trust and loyalty.
* Embracing Career Changers: NSBA actively welcomes individuals transitioning into new careers, providing training and opportunities for growth.
* Investing in Experiences: Quarterly outings, including events like Padres season openers and San Diego FC matches, build camaraderie and a sense of community.

Both Swersky and Hunsaker bring firsthand experience as former sales agents to their leadership roles, allowing them to understand the needs and challenges of their team.

“We hire people, not merely workers,” Swersky emphasized. “If they’re well aligned on values, it helps people find new roles within the company and keep developing their careers.”

National Senior Benefit Advisors is proving that a people-frist approach isn’t just good for morale – it’s good for business. In a competitive industry,their dedication to enriching the lives of both customers and employees is setting a new standard for success.

What specific strategies does your agency employ to stay current with the rapidly evolving landscape of employee health benefits and regulations in San Diego?

Understanding the Shifting Landscape of Employee Benefits

San Diego businesses face unique challenges in attracting and retaining top talent. Competitive salaries are essential, but increasingly, employees prioritize comprehensive and affordable employee health insurance. A robust benefits package isn’t just a perk; it’s a cornerstone of a thriving company culture. Boutique insurance agencies, notably those deeply rooted in the San Diego community, are uniquely positioned to navigate this complex landscape and deliver tailored health coverage solutions.

Why Choose a Boutique Agency for Employee Health Plans?

Larger, national insurance brokers often lack the personalized attention and local expertise that San Diego employers need. Boutique agencies offer several key advantages:

* Dedicated Support: You’ll work directly with experienced professionals who understand the nuances of the San Diego health insurance market.

* Customized Solutions: Forget one-size-fits-all plans. Boutique agencies specialize in crafting employee benefits packages that align with your company’s specific needs and budget.

* Proactive Advocacy: They act as your advocate, navigating the complexities of insurance carriers and regulations on your behalf.

* Local Market Knowledge: Deep understanding of San Diego’s provider networks, cost trends, and regional healthcare challenges.

Navigating the Types of employee Health Insurance Options

Choosing the right group health insurance plan can feel overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of common options:

* HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): Typically lower premiums, requires selecting a primary care physician (PCP) and referrals for specialists.

* PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): More adaptability to see specialists without referrals,but generally higher premiums.

* EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization): Similar to HMOs, but generally don’t require a PCP. Coverage is limited to in-network providers.

* HDHP (High-Deductible Health Plan) with HSA: Lower premiums, paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA) allowing pre-tax contributions for medical expenses. Increasingly popular for cost-conscious employees.

* POS (Point of service): A hybrid of HMO and PPO, offering some flexibility with referrals.

A San Diego boutique agency can help you analyze these options and determine the best fit for your workforce, considering factors like employee demographics, health needs, and budget constraints. Small business health insurance requires a particularly nuanced approach.

The Rise of Voluntary Benefits & Wellness Programs

Beyond conventional medical coverage,employees are increasingly seeking voluntary benefits to supplement their core health plan. These can include:

* dental Insurance: Essential for preventative care and overall health.

* Vision Insurance: Covers eye exams,glasses,and contacts.

* Life Insurance: Provides financial security for employees’ families.

* Disability Insurance: Protects income in case of illness or injury.

* Wellness Programs: Initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles, such as gym memberships, smoking cessation programs, and mental health resources.

Integrating employee wellness programs can lead to reduced healthcare costs, increased productivity, and improved employee morale. San Diego agencies are increasingly focusing on these holistic approaches to employee benefits management.

Cost-Containment Strategies for San Diego Employers

Healthcare costs continue to rise.Here are some strategies to manage expenses:

1. Self-Funding: For larger companies, self-funding can offer greater control over healthcare spending.
2. Reference-Based Pricing: Paying a fair price for medical services based on Medicare rates.
3. Direct Primary Care: partnering with a direct primary care provider to offer affordable, accessible healthcare.
4. Pharmacy Benefit Management (PBM): Optimizing prescription drug costs through strategic PBM partnerships.
5. Negotiating with Carriers: A skilled insurance broker can negotiate favorable rates with insurance carriers.

Compliance and Regulations: Staying on the Right side of the Law

Navigating the complexities of healthcare regulations is crucial. Key areas to consider include:

* ACA (Affordable Care Act): Ensuring compliance with employer mandates.

* HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act): Protecting employee health data.

* CalSavers: California’s retirement savings program,which may impact benefits offerings.

* California Family Rights Act (CFRA) & paid Family Leave: Understanding leave requirements and benefits.

A San Diego boutique agency stays up-to-date on these regulations and can definitely help you ensure compliance, minimizing risk and avoiding penalties.Benefits compliance is a critical aspect of responsible employer practices.

Real-World Example: Supporting a San Diego Tech Startup

We recently partnered with a rapidly growing tech startup in Sorrento Valley. They were struggling to attract and retain engineers due to a limited health benefits package. We conducted a thorough needs assessment, analyzed their budget, and designed a customized plan that included a PPO option, dental and vision coverage, and a robust wellness program. The result? Increased employee satisfaction, reduced turnover, and a stronger competitive edge.

Choosing the Right San