Total system costs and the case of the executive's hernia

This article describes the advantages of taking a total system cost approach in the development of a benefits plan that improves employee health, productivity and profitability. It discusses the benefits and points out the possible pitfalls to the total system cost approach in providing employee health care. A research model is used to assess the value of certain medical procedures and technologies. To exemplify the point more clearly, the author uses a most interesting case study alluded to in the title of the article.