New study reveals lack of full health reform planning.

• Author: Ladd, Scott
• Position: HEALTH CARE

More than nine months after passage of sweeping national health care reform, many executives say they have not engaged in a full analysis of the new law and its potential impact on their companies, according to a new survey conducted by Ernst & Young LLP.

Respondents to the E&Y survey said they recognize the need to plan adequately, so as to become compliant with the law's mandates; 84 percent said they understand that such planning is important. However, despite awareness of the implications of health reform, more than 40 percent indicated they have not undertaken what they would consider to be a full review of the financial impact of the new law on their business.

"The health care reform law brings with it some of the most significant changes seen in decades for employers and the benefits they offer to employees," said Lynne Parrott, an E&Y Advisory Services partner. "Companies likely to be successful in addressing...