* Estimate is statistically different from the previous year shown at p<.05.

^ Information was not obtained for HMO plans in 1988 and 1993, or POS plans in 1988.

Self-funded plan: A plan in which the employer assumes direct financial responsibility for the costs of enrollees’ medical claims. Employers sponsoring self-funded plans typically contract with a third-party administrator or insurer to provide administrative services for the self-funded plan.

Source: Kaiser/HRET Survey of Employer-Sponsored Health Benefits: 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004; KPMG Survey of Employer-Sponsored Health Benefits: 1993, 1996; The Health Insurance Association of America (HIAA): 1988.