Which of the following is NOT a cost-containment measure for health benefits?

Reducing the number of covered services is not a cost-containment measure for health benefits primarily because it diminishes the overall value of the health plan for employees. While cost-containment strategies aim to manage and reduce overall healthcare spending, they also focus on maintaining or improving the quality and comprehensiveness of care provided to employees.

In contrast, healthcare management programs, increasing employee contributions, and implementing co-payments are all strategies designed to control costs while still allowing for a robust health benefits package. Healthcare management programs enhance service delivery efficiency and often focus on preventive care, which can reduce expenses in the long run without removing essential services. Increasing employee contributions shifts some of the financial burden to employees while maintaining the same level of coverage. Co-payments also help manage costs by encouraging responsible use of healthcare resources without limiting access to essential services.

Therefore, reducing the number of covered services can lead to potential gaps in care, may discourage employees from seeking necessary medical attention, and is generally viewed as a negative approach to health benefits management.