Healthcare across the U.S., and certainly here in Arizona, is evolving quickly, particularly as it becomes evident that wellness is a key to overcoming many of the potential healthcare challenges we may face as we age. New technologies such as wearable devices, mobile apps and Web-based tools are being introduced to consumers and workforces, aimed at meeting each individual on their wellness journey and guiding them toward a healthier self.
Today, America spends more each year on healthcare per capita ($9,086) than any other country. Yet, our rates of chronic conditions, obesity and infant mortality are higher than other high-income nations, according to the Commonwealth Fund. That’s why UnitedHealthcare spends $2.9 billion annually on technology and innovation. By making quality healthcare more accessible and affordable through the use of technology, UnitedHealthcare is empowering consumers to take charge of their health like never before and helping people live healthier lives.
In this month’s cover story, In Business Magazine editor RaeAnne Marsh spoke with several of our community’s leading companies to help fill in the current picture of healthcare options and decisions employers are implementing for their workforce. The article also explores new directions in which healthcare and healthcare-related services are expanding and the many options in wellness benefits.
The related Feedback question explores the subject from yet another angle, as three of our community’s businesses share their experience with the value of healthcare as an employee benefit in attracting and retaining talent.
Phoenix’s increasing adoption of adaptive reuse prompted the Legal feature on legal aspects property owners may be dealing with in such projects. And the Roundtable feature this month helps small businesses understand the potential of employee retirement plans.
Debuting in this issue is a new content department to add to the regular lineup of Healthcare, Technology and By the Numbers — commercial real estate, a vital economic sector, merits its own page as In Business Magazine focuses on aspects of real estate acquisition, management and development that impact our economy. The opening article is on the office investment outlook here in Phoenix.
This April issue also includes In Business Magazine’s annually updated Business Healthcare Services Guide — which is a listing by category of hospitals, urgent care facilities, benefits providers and other resources to serve business owners and their employees — with an introduction by Greg Vigdor of the Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association.
It’s my pleasure to help bring you this issue of In Business Magazine, with the varied mix of content to inform and assist in growing our business community.
Sincerely,
David Allazetta
CEO
UnitedHealthcare of Arizona and New Mexico
David (Dave) Allazetta is the CEO of UnitedHealthcare Employer & Individual for Arizona and New Mexico. His previous experience includes the position of vice president of sales and marketing for UnitedHealthcare’s Nevada operations, which include Health Plan of Nevada, Nevada’s largest health maintenance organization.
Allazetta is certified as an Academy of Healthcare Management Professional (PAHM) and maintains his state licensure in health, life, property, casualty and surety insurance. He earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education and psychology from San Diego State University and a master’s in business administration from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
