ZERO 2026 Public Sector Impact Report: Protecting the Budgets of Public Servants

Since 2016, ZERO has served as the defensive line for the public sector. We provide a ‘fast-lane’ to $0 healthcare for everything from routine labs and imaging to major surgeries, serving those who serve our communities. The $4.5 trillion healthcare machine was built to sustain itself, leaving school districts and municipalities to wade through “sludge” and hidden costs. ZERO bypasses these high-overhead systems, partnering directly with transparent, high-quality providers to reduce the cost of care by 35% on average.

In the public sector—where collaboration is high and “word of mouth” is the most trusted source of information — our 76% engagement rate is a direct result of proven reliability.

When a city employee or educator can access a $0 MRI or a $0 specialist visit through the ZERO fast-lane in minutes, they tell
their colleagues. This creates a culture of high participation that doesn’t just save money — it keeps vital resources in the classroom and the community.

94 Member NPS

“It has been exceptional working with ZERO. There aren’t hoops to jump through and everything is handled with ease.”

— Misty, Illinois public school district employee

Our Proven Impact Across the Public Sector

• $26M Savings for 17 Higher-Ed & Medical Institutions
• $17M Savings for K-12 School Districts
• $12M Savings for 18 Local Municipalities

Longevity in an Era of Volatility 

In the public sector, “vendor churn” usually happens when a partner makes big promises but delivers rising costs instead. ZERO’s retention stats tell a different story—one of fiscal stewardship and deeply rooted trust. Our partners don’t just stay because the math works; they stay because ZERO fundamentally improves their employees’ lives. they stay because of the positive impact ZERO is having on their employee’s lives. 

• 25%+ Public Sector partners who’ve been with us for 7 years or more
• 56% Partners who’ve trusted ZERO for 5 years or more
• 35% Average Savings with ZERO

The Recruiting & Retention Advantage

In an era of teacher shortages and “war for talent” in municipal government, ZERO serves as a powerful recruiting tool. It transforms the benefits package from a “deductible burden” into a “VIP Perk.”

The Recruitment Edge: Public sector HR directors report that the $0 Member Responsibility is a key differentiator in attracting top-tier talent.

Members First: By providing
$0 healthcare, employers aren’t just paying a claim; they are protecting the household budgets of the families who serve our communities.

One of our long-standing public school district Benefits Specialists said it best:

“The process has been easy and beneficial for both our employees and our company. Turn around helps as it is quick, allowing employees to feel valued.” 

– Mari-Jo, Harlem School District 122, Machesney Park, IL 

The Public Sector doesn’t just need another vendor; it needs a partner in stewardship. ZERO has proven that you don’t have to choose between a balanced budget and providing a benefit with an exceptional member experience. 

Ready to protect your budget and your people? Reach out to see how ZERO can conduct a Public Sector Healthcare Budget Analysis Today