Joshua Phelps, a Virginia small business owner and member of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), presented his views to the U.S. House Committee on Ways & Means Health Subcommittee. The hearing was titled "Harnessing the Power of Digital Health Data." During his testimony, Phelps shared insights from his experience with employer-sponsored wellness programs.
Phelps highlighted the importance of employer-sponsored insurance as a major source of health coverage in the United States, covering approximately 160 million Americans. He stated, “Employer-sponsored insurance remains the largest source of health coverage in the U.S., covering about 160 million Americans. And this is why most businesses, regardless of size, need to find a way to offer some sort of health benefits to compete for talent in their marketplace.”
He emphasized that health coverage should not be equated with actual healthcare or overall health. According to Phelps, “Health coverage is not the same as health care, and neither is it the same as health. The people we employ... deserve to be healthy and enjoy life fully. Employers can and should be playing a larger role in promoting healthy teams.”
Phelps expressed that while mandates are not sought after, new tools are necessary for progress. He said, “We’re not looking for mandates—we’d like some new tools… Ultimately, empowering employers and employees to focus on health and not just health coverage, is what really is going to make a difference in our national health picture.”
The NFIB has been advocating for small and independent business owners across America for over 80 years since its founding in 1943. It operates as a nonprofit organization dedicated solely to these businesses.
