Premera CEO Jeff Roe Discusses the Burden on Washington Employers

In October, Premera CEO Jeff Roe and Kris Johnson, president of the Association of Washington Business, wrote an op-ed about the pressures faced by Washington state employers are facing, including higher taxes, less premium tax credits, and delayed Medicaid and Medicare payments that can slow pay, innovation, and growth.

It’s clear, Washington employers are facing unprecedented challenges—from rising healthcare costs and new taxes to regulatory uncertainty. At Premera Blue Cross, we want you to know: We see you, we hear you, and we’re here for you.

As a not-for-profit health plan, our mission is to serve members and employer groups—not shareholders. We know healthcare costs are outpacing inflation and that affordability is now one of the biggest barriers to care for employees and their families. We also recognize new state taxes and regulatory changes are adding pressure to your budgets and making it harder to invest in your people and your business. In response, Premera is advocating for balanced tax and regulatory policies, making healthcare more affordable, helping employees make informed health decisions, strengthening primary care connections, and sharing experiences with policymakers that highlight the impact of rising costs on businesses.

What can employers do?

Advocate for balanced tax and regulatory policies by sharing your experiences with policymakers and highlight the impact of rising costs on your ability to invest and support your workforce. Additionally, you can help employees make informed healthcare decisions by integrating your benefits, encouraging preventive care visits, and strengthening their connection to primary care.

Read the full op/ed.