ClubCorp pioneers innovative employee communication method.

DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 21, 1995--Outsourcing is the hottest new trend among large corporations that are re-engineering to meet new, competitive, market demands.

Club Corporation of America (ClubCorp) is among the first pioneers to use the first benefits communications outsourcing method which can enhance employee moral, offer benefit education and save money simultaneously.

The method works through a service called the Consumer Health Helpline, whereby companies work with a customized, 1-800 number for employees to call anytime, to speak to a counselor about their employees benefits package.

According to David Shanks, CEO of Consumer Health, the concept of outsourcing is not uncommon, but as companies move toward managed care from traditional indemnity plans, and switch to 401K benefits from pension arrangements, employees are asking more questions.

"Employees are being asked to take a more interactive roll in their employee benefits by paying a portion of their health care costs and determining how their 401K contributions are invested. To help employees make this transition, human resources departments are spending a large portion of time helping employees learn more about the process."

ClubCorp is one of the first to adapt this innovative approach. One of the largest hospitality companies in America, managing 250 club resorts nationwide, ClubCorp has found the helpline educates and communicates important benefits information to its employees. While many corporate executives may be leery of allowing an outside entity to communicate with employees, in many cases that is exactly what makes the most sense.

Gwen Rodriguez, human resources manager for ClubCorp says that by outsourcing part of its employee benefits communications, the company has been able to relay consistent, accurate, timely and valuable benefits information to its employees in various locations across the country.

In addition, she is convinced that if ClubCorp had not made the Helpline available, employees would be using their benefits incorrectly which inevitably increases health care costs for the individual and the company.

"Benefits Direct," ClubCorp's toll-free number, is available to employees 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week, anytime they have questions or need information about their benefits.

Trained Helpline counselors hand-hold the employee through any scenario. For example, if a pregnant employee needs to know the steps to take to ensure proper medical coverage for her pre-natal care, the counselor reads from a script taken from the employee's benefits plan to help them pre-certify and enroll with a plan-approved hospital.

If the employee needs to work with a third party, such as the claims administrator, the counselor transparently conferences the caller through and stays on the line until all caller needs are met.

This process can streamline the human resource staff to focus on strategic functions, instead of spending an average 40 percent of their time answering employees' questions.

For more information or to arrange an interview with Consumer Health or a Helpline user in your area, contact Katy Doherty, 303/292-6655.

CONTACT: Consumer Health, Denver

Katy Doherty, 303/292-6655