New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Navigating the Future: Addressing the Physician Shortage at Leidos Holdings

Healthcare Provider Update: Leidos Holdings, Inc. does not directly provide its own healthcare services; instead, it offers health insurance benefits to its employees through various third-party insurance providers. The specifics of these healthcare providers may change based on company contracts and employee preferences during open enrollment periods. Looking ahead to 2026, healthcare costs are anticipated to rise significantly, driven by a combination of factors impacting the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. Insurers are requesting steep premium increases-some exceeding 60% in certain states-partly due to higher medical costs and the potential loss of enhanced federal premium subsidies. This could lead to out-of-pocket premium increases of over 75% for a large number of enrollees, primarily affecting middle-income Americans who may struggle to maintain adequate coverage. As the insurance landscape evolves, individuals and families must prepare for these financial implications and consider proactive strategies to mitigate costs. Click here to learn more

'With the looming physician shortage and the wave of retirements, it's critical for Leidos Holdings companies to consider innovative workforce solutions, including leveraging technology and expanding educational opportunities, to ensure the stability and efficiency of healthcare systems in the years ahead.' – Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

'To address the physician shortage and aging workforce, Leidos Holdings companies must prioritize strategic workforce planning and the integration of advanced technologies, ensuring that healthcare systems remain resilient and capable of meeting future demands.' – Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

In this article, we will discuss:

The demographic challenges and physician shortages facing the healthcare industry.
The role of technology and education reforms in addressing workforce gaps.
The economic, social, and cultural dynamics reshaping healthcare employment.

As Leidos Holdings medical workforce nears retirement, a looming crisis threatens the stability of healthcare systems, exacerbated by an anticipated physician shortage. This pressing issue has become urgent as an aging population demands more frequent and sophisticated healthcare services.

Demographic Challenges and Rising Demand for Healthcare Professionals

By 2036, the elderly population in the United States is projected to increase significantly, with those aged 65 and older expected to rise by 34.1%, and those 75 and older by 54.7%. This demographic shift is set to dramatically expand the demand for healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions and surgical interventions. As the first generation to face such a stark shortage of physicians, Baby Boomers are likely to experience unprecedented pressures on healthcare systems. This year alone, a shortfall of 57,259 doctors has been projected, with expectations of this gap widening to 81,180 by 2035.

The Retirement Cliff in Healthcare

Currently, 20% of physicians are aged 65 or older, and more than 30% of all practicing doctors are at least 60. Certain specialties, such as pulmonology, have an even greater proportion of older practitioners, with 73% aged 55 and above. Systems like AdventHealth have implemented strategies to manage this aging workforce, including part-time roles and mentorship opportunities to uphold skills and competency.

Adapting Through Technology and Educational Reforms

Despite efforts to adapt, challenges persist, partly due to a constrained educational pipeline. Federal funding limits set by the 1997 Balanced Budget Act have severely restricted the growth of new physicians by capping Medicare funding for residency training. To address the growing demand, health systems are increasingly turning to technology like telemedicine and AI to streamline processes and extend the reach of current staff. The role of advanced practice providers, such as physician assistants and nurse practitioners, has become crucial in managing less critical cases.

Economic and Social Dynamics in Healthcare

Inflation-adjusted health spending per person has increased from $2,151 in 1970 to $14,570 in 2023. This economic burden is compounded by an increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases and the corresponding use of multiple prescription medications. The field is also grappling with evolving expectations around work-life balance, significantly impacting the career choices of medical professionals.

Cultural Shifts and Strategic Responses

The healthcare sector has witnessed a cultural shift away from the autonomy traditionally enjoyed by physicians, moving towards more structured organizational employment. This change has left many practitioners feeling less satisfied, noting increased regulatory oversight and corporatization, as highlighted by Dr. Peter Grape's reflections on his career in cardiology.

Looking Ahead: Innovation and Engagement

To navigate these challenges, leaders in the field recommend incremental changes to improve working conditions and boost the appeal of the medical profession. Embracing technological innovations, expanding training opportunities, and reevaluating organizational cultures are seen as critical steps toward sustaining healthcare delivery.

In summary, the healthcare system stands at a critical juncture. The combination of an aging population and a wave of retiring physicians could severely impact the system unless proactive, thoughtful changes are made. The early retirement trend among senior physicians, accelerated by pandemic-induced burnout, underscores the urgency of strategic reforms to maintain a capable healthcare workforce.

This comprehensive examination highlights the pressing challenges and potential strategies for sustaining healthcare excellence at Leidos Holdings, emphasizing the need for strategic foresight and innovative solutions to maintain the continued well-being of its workforce and the broader community.

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Source:

1. Boyle, Patrick. 'Aging Patients and Doctors Drive Nation’s Physician Shortage.' Association of American Medical Colleges , 11 June 2021, www.aamc.org/news-insights/aging-patients-and-doctors-drive-nation-s-physician-shortage .

2. 'Health Care Workforce Shortages.' NIHCM Foundation , Oct. 2024, nihcm.org/publications/health-care-workforce-shortages.

3. Robeznieks, Andis. 'Doctor Shortages Are Here—And They’ll Get Worse if We Don’t Act Fast.' American Medical Association , 13 Apr. 2022, www.ama-assn.org/about/reports-studies/doctor-shortages-are-here-and-theyll-get-worse-if-we-dont-act-fast .

4. 'America’s Aging Population Is Leading to a Doctor Shortage Crisis.' CNBC , 10 May 2022, www.cnbc.com/2022/05/10/americas-aging-population-is-leading-to-a-doctor-shortage-crisis.html .

5. 'Aging Short Version.' University at Albany, SUNY , www.albany.edu/sph/cphce/phl_0214.shtml .

What options does Leidos offer for employees looking to transition into retirement, and how can these options impact employees' financial planning for retirement? Employees may want to consider their defined benefit pension plans and other retirement savings options provided by Leidos, understanding how these plans complement each other.

Retirement Options at Leidos: Leidos offers employees various retirement options, including defined benefit pension plans and retirement savings plans. These options can greatly impact an employee’s financial planning for retirement, helping them ensure a steady income stream post-retirement. Employees should carefully consider how their pension plans complement their 401(k) and other retirement benefits to make informed financial decisions.

In what ways can an employee at Leidos maximize their retirement benefits, particularly regarding the integration of short-term and long-term disability benefits? Employees should assess their eligibility for both STD and LTD benefits to navigate their retirement effectively while ensuring their financial security during any potential health-related absences.

Maximizing Retirement Benefits and Disability: Employees at Leidos can maximize their retirement benefits by understanding how short-term and long-term disability (STD/LTD) benefits integrate with their retirement plans. STD covers up to 180 days, and LTD can provide up to 60% of base salary if a disability extends beyond 180 days. Understanding the eligibility and benefit durations can help employees ensure financial stability during health-related work absences(Leidos_2018 Disability …).

How do the IRS limits for 2024 relate to the retirement savings plans available at Leidos, and what strategies can employees employ to ensure they are on track to meet these limits? Understanding the contribution limits for 401(k) plans and the implications of these limits can provide an essential framework for retirement savings.

IRS Limits for 2024: The IRS contribution limits for 401(k) plans in 2024 are crucial for retirement planning. Employees should stay informed about these limits to ensure they are contributing the maximum allowable amount to their retirement accounts. Leidos’ retirement plans are structured to accommodate these limits, allowing employees to optimize their retirement savings.

What are the distinct differences between the short-term and long-term disability benefits provided by Leidos that employees should understand before entering retirement? Employees must grasp how STD and LTD benefits operate, including eligibility requirements, duration of benefits, and how they can influence financial planning for retirement.

Differences Between STD and LTD at Leidos: Leidos provides both short-term and long-term disability plans, which differ in eligibility, duration, and coverage. STD benefits last for up to 180 days, while LTD benefits take effect afterward and can cover up to 60% of base salary. Understanding these differences is key for employees planning for potential health-related income disruptions(Leidos_2018 Disability …).

How can employees learn more about Leidosâ€™ retirement benefits, including retirement counseling services and resources available for pre-retirement planning? Understanding how to navigate these resources is vital for employees approaching retirement to make informed decisions about their benefits.

Accessing Retirement Counseling and Resources: Leidos provides access to retirement counseling services and resources to support pre-retirement planning. Employees should take advantage of these services to better understand their retirement options, including pension payout options, 401(k) plans, and health coverage post-retirement.

What steps should an employee at Leidos take if they are considering early retirement, particularly concerning their health coverage and pension plan options? Exploring the implications of early retirement on health benefits and retirement income is essential as employees transition into this phase of life.

Steps for Early Retirement: Employees considering early retirement at Leidos should carefully review the impact on their health coverage and pension plans. Early retirement may reduce pension benefits and affect access to certain health benefits, so understanding the full financial impact is essential before making this decision.

How do Leidosâ€™ disability policies affect an employee's retirement plans, and what should they be aware of regarding eligibility and claims processes? Knowing when and how to file claims for disability while planning for retirement can significantly affect financial stability in later years.

Disability Policies and Retirement Plans: Leidos’ disability policies can significantly affect retirement plans. Both STD and LTD policies have eligibility requirements that can influence how long an employee can receive benefits, and they should consider these policies in their broader retirement planning(Leidos_2018 Disability …).

In what ways can retirement planning discussions evolve at Leidos, especially as employees enter their final years of service? This inquiry addresses the evolving nature of retirement benefits and effective planning practices employees should prioritize as they prepare to retire.

Evolving Retirement Planning Discussions: Retirement planning at Leidos should evolve as employees approach the end of their careers. Employees should regularly review their pension plans, retirement savings, and healthcare options to ensure they are maximizing their benefits and making adjustments as needed for a smooth transition into retirement.

What information can Leidos employees access regarding their pension plan's payout options upon retirement, and what factors should they consider when selecting their payout option? Understanding the different distributions available to employees can help them choose the best option for their financial situation post-retirement.

Pension Plan Payout Options: Leidos employees can access detailed information regarding pension plan payout options, including lump-sum and annuity payments. Employees should evaluate factors such as longevity, tax implications, and financial needs when selecting the best payout option to ensure financial security in retirement.

How can employees at Leidos contact Human Resources to inquire further about their retirement options and benefits? Clear communication channels and support can facilitate a smoother transition into retirement for all employees looking to understand their rights and benefits associated with retirement at Leidos.

Contacting Human Resources for Retirement Inquiries: Leidos employees can contact Human Resources to inquire about retirement options, benefits, and any necessary paperwork. Clear communication with HR is essential for understanding the specific retirement resources available and ensuring a smooth retirement process.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Leidos Holdings offers comprehensive retirement benefits, including a 401(k) plan and a pension scheme. Employees are eligible to participate in the Leidos 401(k) Retirement Plan, which includes a company match of 100% on employee Pre-tax and/or Roth after-tax contributions, up to 5% of eligible pay. Vesting for company contributions occurs over three years of service. Contributions can be made on a pre-tax, Roth after-tax, or traditional after-tax basis, and employees are immediately eligible to receive company contributions. The Leidos 401(k) plan offers a wide range of investment options, including both passive and active funds. Vanguard provides investment advice services for participants (Vanguard) (Leidos). For pension benefits, Leidos Holdings offers a matching pension scheme. This pension plan allows employees to save for retirement through a structured match program. The retirement contributions vary based on the fringe benefit package of the employee, and there are different options for how the pension plan is structured and managed based on the employee's needs (Leidos). Leidos Holdings has incorporated terminology such as "vesting," "Roth after-tax contributions," and "passive and active investment options" within their plans to clarify the specifics of the retirement benefits. These terms help employees understand how their savings will accumulate and what choices they have for investing for retirement.

Restructuring (2024): Leidos has announced a major restructuring in 2024, realigning its operating groups and making changes to corporate leadership. The company is now organized into five sectors: Health and Civil, National Security, Commercial and International, Digital Modernization, and Defense Systems. Leadership changes were also implemented to support long-term strategy execution. This restructuring is essential for the company to remain competitive in its industry and adapt to the evolving needs of national security and modernization efforts (Intelligence Community News). Importance: It is critical to address this restructuring news given the economic pressures and the strategic importance of defense and technology sectors in the political and security landscape. The company's reorganization can impact its financial stability and workforce, influencing investment decisions during uncertain political and tax environments.

Leidos Holdings offers a variety of stock options and RSUs (Restricted Stock Units) to its employees across several levels of the organization. Stock options at Leidos are primarily offered to senior management and key employees under the company's equity incentive plans, allowing them to purchase Leidos common stock at a set price within a defined period. The RSUs, on the other hand, are awarded as a form of deferred compensation, granted over a vesting period, which employees can convert into company shares upon meeting certain conditions such as tenure or performance (Leidos) (Leidos) (Leidos). In 2022, Leidos expanded its equity incentive program to include a wider pool of employees, particularly focusing on those in critical roles within national security and health sectors. The company's SEC filings show that RSUs were granted based on both performance metrics and time-based vesting schedules (Leidos) (Leidos). In 2023, Leidos continued this practice, issuing RSUs under their standard plan, with the stock options being reserved for more senior positions (Leidos). The vesting period typically spans three to four years, with performance-based RSUs awarded to leadership (Leidos). Leidos Holdings consistently aims to incentivize long-term commitment, granting equity to employees who are critical to the business's success.

Leidos Holdings offers comprehensive healthcare benefits designed to meet the diverse needs of its workforce. Employees have access to several health insurance plans, including four Consumer Directed Health Plans (CDHPs) with associated Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). These plans, known as Healthy Focus Plans (Basic, Essential, Advantage, and Premier), enable participants to manage their healthcare expenses while saving for future medical costs. Additionally, Leidos provides dental and vision coverage through national PPO plans and regional HMO options. Leidos also emphasizes mental health, offering behavioral health services via Teladoc for Aetna members and Virgin Pulse for overall wellness management. The company’s healthcare approach reflects its commitment to employee well-being in a dynamic economic environment, ensuring that workers are prepared for rising healthcare costs due to ongoing shifts in healthcare regulations (Leidos Benefits) (Leidos Benefits). The importance of discussing healthcare benefits at Leidos cannot be overstated, especially given the current political and economic landscape. With healthcare costs rising, Leidos' benefits program supports employees in making informed choices through tools like ALEX, a virtual benefits counselor. Furthermore, Leidos' partnership with wellness platforms like Virgin Pulse highlights their focus on preventive care and mental well-being. This proactive approach helps mitigate the financial burden on employees in a changing tax and healthcare policy environment. As political discourse increasingly focuses on healthcare reform, companies like Leidos play a crucial role in supporting their employees with flexible, comprehensive benefits that adapt to new legislative and economic realities (Leidos) (Leidos).

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Leidos Holdings at , ; or by calling them at .

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