South Carolina’s Benefitfocus recently announced its Preferred Partner Program and Broker Advisory Council to streamline brokers’ and consultants’ online work — simplifying benefits management with built-in interoperability.

By using the preferred partner component, brokers can improve their perspective for the benefit of clients and potentially increase range of services; receive ongoing support; and enjoy preferred status for accessing Benefitfocus services.

The company already has signed on USI Insurance Services, Catholic Mutual Group and Blue Chip Benefits.

"Clients look to us for help with benefits challenges year-round, beyond initial plan set up," Anne Burkett, USI Insurance Services national practice leader for HR technology, said. "Technology is a fundamental part of today's benefits programs and partnering with Benefitfocus provides our clients with consumer-friendly tools to manage their benefits plans.”

Benefitfocus CEO and co-founder Shawn Jenkins stressed the importance of brokers’ role in the company’s proprietary software, stating that the new features bring brokers needed resources “as benefits become more complex and competition increases."

Spokespersons indicated that the Broker Advisory Council will launch soon, further enhancing brokers’ tool kits.

“It allows us to better partner in our clients' ongoing success and further enhances [our] platform," Burkett said.