Across large populations, unnecessary MSK surgery often results from identifying high-risk members too late in the care journey. When average employee tenure is less than a year, savings that take multiple years to materialize are difficult to rely on. MSK is different. Surgical escalation can happen quickly, and procedures like injections and surgery are among the largest drivers of near-term MSK spend. This whitepaper explains how Sword's AI Care reduces unnecessary surgery within the plan year by combining evidence-based digital physical therapy with proactive identification of members at risk of escalation. The result is earlier access to conservative care, fewer low-value procedures, and more reliable near-term cost impact.

The Teamsters Health and Welfare Fund of Philadelphia provides healthcare and wellness benefits to thousands of union members and their families across a range of industries. With a long-standing commitment to high-quality, cost-effective care, the Fund supports members through expanded access, personalized support, and a focus on long-term well-being. Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions were a top cost driver for the Teamsters Health and Welfare Fund of Philadelphia, and many members struggled to access traditional, in-clinic physical therapy. Long commutes, rigid work schedules, and limited appointment availability made it hard for members to get care when they needed it. As a result, MSK issues often escalated into more complex and costly treatment, increasing surgery rates and driving higher overall spend for the Fund.

When you work in the public sector, whether you’re a federal postal worker, state employee, or local city staffer, your compensation goes far beyond a paycheck. Your government employee benefits package is one of the most valuable parts of your total rewards. It protects your health, your family, and your future. But federal employee benefits can be confusing to navigate. What exactly do federal employees get? Are all government employee benefits plan the same? How do federal health benefits plans compare to the private sector? And are there hidden perks you might be missing?