Executive Forum’s Leadership Series: Conversations with Self-Funding’s Experts

Julie Wohlstein of Centrix Benefit Administrators on the Evolution of Self-Funding and the Role of HCAA

The HCAA Executive Forum 2025 brought together some of the most respected voices in self-funding, offering a platform to discuss the industry's challenges, innovations, and opportunities. In this special interview series, John Lynn, Founder and Chief Editor of Healthcare IT Today, sat down with four leaders in self-funding to explore the issues shaping the industry today.

In our previous installment, Caryn Rasnick shared insights into HCAA University, the importance of the Certified Self-Funding Specialist (CSFS) designation, and how education is shaping the future of self-funding. Now, we turn our attention to Julie Wohlstein, MAS, CSFS, President and CEO of Centrix Benefit Administrators, to discuss the evolving landscape of self-funding, the role of continuous learning, and how HCAA serves as a catalyst for industry collaboration.

A Career Rooted in Healthcare Leadership

Julie brings more than four decades of experience to the table, having worked on both the TPA and brokerage sides of the industry. Her background in gerontology and a master’s degree in leadership of healthcare organizations give her a broad and well-rounded perspective.

"I’ve been in the industry for 43 years," Julie explained. "I started in gerontology, so I’ve always been in healthcare in some form. Being on both the TPA and brokerage sides has given me a deep understanding of the intricacies of self-funding."

HCAA University: A Critical Tool for Onboarding and Upskilling

One of the major challenges facing self-funding organizations today is ensuring that new hires—many of whom come from outside the industry—gain the necessary foundational knowledge. Julie sees the newly unveiled HCAA University as a key resource in this effort.

"I employ new hires from a variety of industries," she shared. "You can teach a skill set, but you can’t teach extreme ownership and accountability. HCAA University gives new employees the foundational tools they need to understand self-funding and contribute meaningfully to their organizations."

Julie emphasized that onboarding and upskilling employees efficiently is critical for business success. "This industry is complex, and the ability to quickly orient new professionals ensures they have the best chance for success in their roles."

CSFS Certification: A Deeper Understanding of Self-Funding

For Julie, earning her Certified Self-Funding Specialist (CSFS) designation was about more than professional development—it was about deepening her expertise to better serve clients and employees.

"Self-funding is highly specialized. The more you understand the different components—risk transfer, actuarial science, and compliance—the better you can serve your clients. The CSFS designation gave me a comprehensive understanding of the entire ecosystem."

The CSFS certification has evolved significantly over the years, incorporating regulatory updates and digital enhancements. Julie highlighted the importance of HCAA’s commitment to continuous updates, ensuring that certification holders remain at the forefront of industry changes.

The Value of HCAA Membership and Conferences

For Julie, HCAA is more than an association—it’s a lifeline that keeps industry professionals connected and informed.

"HCAA provides a wealth of resources that allow me to keep up with the latest regulatory and compliance requirements. There’s so much complexity in administering self-funded plans, and HCAA ensures that I have access to the latest insights and best practices."

Beyond compliance, Julie values the networking and collaboration opportunities that HCAA fosters. "The industry is evolving, and we’re seeing a shift where brokers are approaching TPAs with vendor partnerships instead of the other way around. That dynamic makes events like the HCAA Executive Forum even more critical for fostering connections and learning from industry leaders."

She also highlighted the collegial atmosphere of HCAA, noting that it feels like a family-oriented association where members can engage openly, ask questions, and share knowledge without hesitation.

Embracing AI and Innovation in Self-Funding

Looking ahead, Julie is most excited about how artificial intelligence (AI) and automation will reshape self-funding. "I’m not a tech person—I’m a people person," she admitted. "But I recognize how AI can improve administrative efficiency, workflow automation, and client engagement."

She sees AI as a powerful tool for reducing administrative burden and allowing professionals to focus on high-value decision-making. "The ability to leverage AI for claims processing, compliance monitoring, and data analysis will allow us to be more proactive and strategic in serving self-funded clients."

Final Thoughts

Julie closed with a reflection on the importance of continuous learning and industry engagement. "The self-funding industry is constantly evolving. Whether it’s through HCAA University, CSFS certification, or industry conferences, staying informed is essential for success."

For professionals looking to deepen their expertise and expand their network, HCAA remains an invaluable resource. As the industry faces new technological, regulatory, and market-driven challenges, the ability to adapt and collaborate will be key.

Stay tuned for the next installment in our Executive Forum’s Leadership Series, featuring another leading voice in self-funding.