Employee benefit packages are a source of great security for the average American. Yet in today's economic turmoil, these very benefits are on shaky ground. Americans are very worried about the fate of their employee benefits, according to a survey released in September of 2003.

Next to concern about the economy, health care is the second most important issue in America. The rising costs of health care have meant that insurance companies are covering fewer procedures, and more employees are footing the bill. Another disturbing statistic is that seven out of ten Americans have no medical insurance!

Have a Backup Plan to Your Employee Benefit Package

Americans are more worried than ever that their employers will stop paying for their health care coverage. The trends in business are bearing out this fear. Each year, fewer employers are paying for their employees' medical and dental insurance. Some employers, though not completely withdrawing employee health benefits, are cutting back on the amount of coverage offered.

Take initiative in your own health care situation and research alternatives to employee benefit programs, such as fee-for-service supplemental health plans. For a small monthly fee, anyone and their dependents can subscribe to one of these comprehensive packages, which include dental, chiropractic, and vision care, plus prescription drug benefits.