Employers ready to renew plans brace for steep hikes

Umar Farooq is executive vice president of Healthcare Services at Premera Blue Cross, leading the company’s strategies for provider network development, value-based contracting, clinical solutions, and health care quality. He also serves on the board for Washington Health Alliance.

In Spokane and across Eastern Washington, health care affordability is no longer a future concern. It's already shaping decisions that local employers are making today about jobs, growth, and compensation.