Provider-sponsored health plans (PSHPs) are a key segment of the insurance market but operate within a distinct operational, strategic, and organizational context when compared to other insurers.

Because of their unique business context, the market has seen a wide range of performance outcomes in recent years with select PSHPs exiting markets while others become major regional insurers. Much of the success (or failure) of a PSHP depends on its strategic alignment to the enterprise as a health system asset or diversified business engine.