Over the last decade, level-funded health plans have moved from a niche strategy to a serious alternative for employers who want more control, better cost predictability, and smarter plan design, without jumping fully into traditional self-funding.
But not all level-funded plans are built the same.
Some are simply repackaged carrier products. Others are true next-generation models that combine direct contracting, modern pharmacy strategies, care navigation, and data-driven underwriting.
Below are five level-funded solutions we’re seeing produce strong outcomes in the real world, especially for employers looking to reduce waste while improving the member experience.
1) Level Health
Level Health is one of the more progressive models in the level-funded space because it blends modern network strategy with aggressive cost-containment tools.
Why it stands out
- Available in all markets
- Tiered networks and direct contracts designed to steer members toward high-value care
- Virtual primary care through Rezilient
- Quest Select direct contract for lab work
- Athletico partnership for physical therapy
- Ventegra PBM with specialty medication sourcing (MAP, PAP, international sourcing)
- ViCare mental health at no cost
- $0 primary care visits
- $0 surgical procedures in navigated channels
- AI-driven underwriting
- Writes groups down to 5 enrolled employees
- Dedicated concierge and care navigation
Advisor take:
This is a strong fit for employers willing to lean into guided care and cost transparency. The combination of direct contracts and aggressive pharmacy management creates meaningful savings opportunities without sacrificing member support. The best part is when employees learn about the care pathways that allow for access without additional cost. Full data access with one of the most transparent data portals I have seen from any level funded plan.
2) Turnkey Health
Turnkey focuses on simplicity, but underneath that simplicity is a very intentional cost-control model.
Why it stands out
- Available in all markets
- Writes groups down to 5 enrolled
- National PPO access for broad provider choice
- Dedicated concierge and care navigation
- Navigated specialty care (surgeries and imaging) at no cost to members
- Verus RX PBM
- High-cost medication sourcing designed to reduce specialty drug spend by 60–80%
- Utilizes GoodBill for 501(r) discounts, claim reviews
- Members experience lower costs through fair pricing, billing accuracy, and better care navigation.
Advisor take:
Turnkey performs well for employers who want a familiar PPO experience but need better cost control behind the scenes. The specialty pharmacy strategy is often where the real financial impact shows up. The zero dollar care component is only accessed through care navigation, making employee education a key component of this strategy.
3) Angle Health
Angle positions itself as an AI-enabled health plan and it’s one of the fastest-growing entrants in this space.
Why it stands out
- Available in all markets
- PPO Network access through Aetna or Cigna
- Cerrapass RX formulary strategy
- AI-driven underwriting and automation
- Writes groups down to 5 enrolled
- Raised $134M in Series B funding (strong signal of market momentum)
Advisor take:
Angle appeals to growth-focused companies that want a modern, tech-forward experience. The underwriting and operational automation help reduce friction during onboarding and renewals. Access to claims data is available, albeit somewhat limited due to the network contracts.
4) Sana Benefits
Sana takes a different approach by combining reference-based pricing with physician-guided care and heavy member support.
Why it stands out
- Available in select markets
- Reference-based pricing strategy paired with physician and ancillary networks
- Direct contracts through Sana Care
- Dedicated primary care provider included at $0
- Unlimited virtual access to care team
- Expert care navigation
- Flexible virtual support via member portal
- Smith RX PBM with specialty sourcing (MAP, PAP, international sourcing)
- Writes groups down to 5 enrolled
Advisor take:
Sana tends to work well when employers want deeper member engagement and are open to a more guided, value-based care model. The built-in primary care relationship helps reduce unnecessary downstream claims. The reference based pricing strategy eliminates any barriers to access since claims can be paid to any provider. Employee education is a key component of this strategy.
5) CBC (Creative Benefit Consultants)
CBC offers a flexible structure that can work well for employers entering level funding for the first time.
Why it stands out
- Available in all markets
- Cigna network or Reference-Based Pricing option with PHCS wrap
- Association plan structure
- Writes groups down to as few as 2 enrolled employees
- DisclosedRX PBM with specialty sourcing (MAP, PAP, international sourcing)
Important consideration:
Because this is an association plan, data access can be limited compared to other models.
Advisor take:
CBC is often a practical entry point for smaller groups or employers who want strategy flexibility. The trade-off is reduced transparency versus more data-rich solutions.
The Bigger Picture: Level-Funded Isn’t One Thing
The biggest mistake employers make is assuming all level-funded plans operate the same way.
In reality, outcomes are driven by:
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Network design and provider steering
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Pharmacy strategy and specialty sourcing
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Care navigation and concierge engagement
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Underwriting sophistication
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Access to meaningful data
The best results come when the plan design aligns with the employer’s culture, workforce demographics, and long-term strategy, not just the lowest renewal number.
Level funding is no longer just a stepping stone to self-funding. In many cases, it’s becoming the preferred long-term strategy for employers who want predictability, flexibility, and smarter purchasing power.
The key isn’t picking the “cheapest” plan, it’s choosing the right model for the business you’re actually running.