# 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.

- **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.