Let’s get this out of the way: we know you’re tired of hearing about COVID. But it did kick off a wave of change that’s still reshaping the healthcare space, especially when it comes to technology. What started as a crisis response turned into a long-term shift in how care is delivered, accessed, and managed. And it’s pushed TPAs into new territory.
During the pandemic, remote work and telehealth became the norm. That created a ripple effect, with healthcare consumers becoming more comfortable, and more reliant, on digital tools to manage their health. At the same time, regulations like the No Surprises Act and the Transparency in Coverage Rule raised the bar on compliance expectations, requiring real-time access to claims data, provider directories, and pricing details.
That all adds up to one thing: every modern TPA is expected to operate like a tech company.
Why Tech is No Longer Optional
TPAs are on the front lines of claims administration, which means they’re also on the hook for delivering the kind of real-time experience members now expect. The days of paper-heavy processes and delayed updates are behind us. A TPA without a strong tech backbone isn’t just inefficient; it’s a liability.
Falling behind on technology means slower claims processing, more errors, and a poor member experience. It also opens the door to compliance risks, especially as regulations grow more complex. It’s not enough to be “good enough” anymore. Employers and members alike expect more.
Take the concept of “white glove” customer service for example. One advantage the new generation of HR directors have is that they’ve grown up with technology. This means that telling them your service offers an advantage because you answer every phone call immediately only shows them that you’re out of touch with what employees are demanding from your services. What was once considered “white glove service” isn’t so white glove anymore—handling every request quickly and efficiently over the phone is no longer what today’s employees and HR directors are looking for; they want tech that’s going to do the majority of the hard work for them and a service provider who can provide that tech.
When done right, tech investments don’t just help you keep up; they help you win. Today’s platforms can automate claims workflows, streamline data sharing, and support predictive analytics that lead to smarter decisions and better outcomes. AI tools are even helping TPAs anticipate member needs and identify cost-saving opportunities before they happen.
Future-Facing TPAs Will Win
To thrive in this new environment, TPAs need more than just tools. They need a mindset shift. It’s not about adopting tech for tech’s sake. It’s about future-proofing your business. The right solutions can lower costs, improve accuracy, and keep you agile in the face of change.
At Integrated Payor Solutions (IPS), we build smarter infrastructure for TPAs who want to grow. Our scalable, Salesforce-based platform is built to evolve with the industry, helping you stay compliant, efficient, and competitive without breaking the bank.
The TPAs that succeed tomorrow are the ones investing in tech today. So ask yourself: are you ready for what’s next?
