The upcoming year will offer many opportunities and many changes. Health plans will continue to add innovative tools to help patients with physical, mental and behavioral health conditions, including health coaching, medication reminders, and customized disease management and care coordination programs.

The aging population will continue to place additional strains on the health care system, particularly amid a shortage of health care workers. Insurers will be tasked with finding new ways to offer coverage and support to this group. Meanwhile, AHIP's national education campaign will help to better inform consumers about their risks of needing long-term care.

Wellness programs and health savings accounts will continue to gain popularity, as companies look to reduce costs and encourage employees to take responsibility for their health. AHIP and other industry stakeholders also plan to work with the new Obama administration to make affordable, quality health care coverage a reality for all Americans.