Rose City SHRM June 2026 Monthly Meeting

The Miracle Making Business 

Healthcare continues to be one of the most significant and complex expenses facing employers and employees today. This presentation provides a practical and informative look at how healthcare is financed in the United States and why understanding the system is critical for HR professionals, business leaders, and employees alike.

Attendees will gain insight into the evolution of the U.S. healthcare system, explore the various ways employers fund healthcare benefits, and learn how these decisions impact organizational costs and employee access to care. The session will also examine the prescription drug marketplace, including the roles of pharmaceutical manufacturers, pharmacy retailers, and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), while addressing the ongoing influence of the Affordable Care Act on today's healthcare landscape.

Participants will leave with a stronger understanding of current healthcare trends affecting employers and employees, empowering them to make more informed decisions about benefits, healthcare spending, and employee wellbeing.

Key Learning Objectives

• Understand the six primary healthcare funding models available to employers:
  • Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs)
  • Fully Insured Plans
  • Level-Funded Plans
  • Self-Funded Plans
  • Captive Arrangements
  • Reference-Based Pricing
• Gain a foundational understanding of the prescription drug supply chain and the roles of:
  • Pharmaceutical Manufacturers
  • Pharmacy Retailers
  • Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs)
• Explore the impact and continuing relevance of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
• Identify emerging healthcare trends and challenges affecting employers and their workforce.
• Learn practical strategies for navigating the healthcare system to support both organizational success and employee wellbeing.

About the Speaker

Mark McKendrick

Employee Benefits Advisor 

Marsh McLennan Agency   

Mark McKendrick is an Employee Benefits Advisor at Marsh McLennan Agency.  His primary focus is partnering with HR leaders & business owners to design and implement cost-effective total rewards strategies that enable organizations to make informed decisions while enhancing employee well-being and serving their company culture. 

Mark is on the Talent Task Force for the Dallas Regional Chamber and supports initiatives focused on solving employers’ most pressing talent challenges, including how companies attract, retain, and develop talent.  He is also on the Board of Directors for a non-profit documentary film company called Fotolanthropy that shares true stories of strength and hope. Mark lives in Dallas with his wife Caroline and their two young daughters who love unicorns.

Lunch will be provided and is included in the price of the event. 

For any questions about the event, or to suggest new content for meetings, please reach out to Dawn Burkett at vpdevelopment@rosecityshrm.com.