Telehealth services, which rose to prominence in 2020, is becoming a popular benefit in the workplace. They offer convenience, improved access to healthcare, and tailored support for employees. Here’s how telehealth services, including mental health options, can boost wellness and productivity for your mobile workforce.
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What is telehealth?
Sometimes referred to as ‘telemedicine’, telehealth is healthcare that you can access remotely. The best-known example would be remote doctor appointments, but it also includes mental health counselling, and even remote monitoring of vital signs.
Telehealth is just one of a range of options that employers can provide for their staff. As we discussed before, employee wellbeing is a worthwhile investment.
Benefits of telehealth services
Telehealth services have myriad benefits, for both employees and employers. These range from the obvious (health) to the less immediately apparent (personal finance, morale).
Here are just some of the advantages of telehealth services, which have become a major presence in international health services.
Improved access to healthcare
Telehealth isn’t a substitute for every doctor visit, but it can eliminate the need for many in-person consultations. While obviously it’s less tactile and there are some things that can’t be done (reaction tests and blood samples, for instance), a doctor can still advise, give prescriptions and ask the right questions.
This is vital, as many people still put off going to the doctor for a range of reasons (time, cost, procrastination). Indeed, a recent American survey found that over 40% of men only go to the doctor when they think they have a serious medical condition. The same study also discovered that more than half of men said their health wasn't something they talk about. Staying in America,only 44% of people (across all demographics) have regular check-ups. Providing free remote consultations can help address this gap in preventive care.
As mentioned in our other blog, digital solutions for mobile workers are becoming increasingly popular. Therefore a free, remote consultation can be the solution.
Preventative medical support
Proactive healthcare prevents issues from escalating. Regular checkups can lead to the early detection of health concerns, potentially saving lives and reducing long-term healthcare costs.
Maintain medical history and records
Regular communications with an appropriate medical professional means that a narrative and a full picture can be created and maintained. This ensures continuity of care, simplifies treatment, and helps employees stay on top of prescriptions, health milestones, and family medical history.
The more information a patient has, the better equipped they are to keep on top of their health, whether that means healthier habits, or maintaining prescriptions and checkups.
Support for family medical consultations
For employees with family-related medical needs, remote consultations are very helpful. For instance, if the patient or physician needs to consult a relative or medical professional about family history or medical history, they can do so on a group call. Distance, time, and cost are a much smaller issue when several people can consult a medical professional remotely and simultaneously.
As we’ve discussed before, this form of convenience can help address employee burnout.
Reduce workplace infectious
From the common cold to more serious illnesses, it’s practical and helpful for doctors to pre-screen and advise remotely. This can save employees having to come into the workplace, where they might risk infecting co-workers.
Enhanced morale and productivity
Whether it’s doctor appointments for sick notes, or just consultations, telehealth services offer a cheaper, handier alternative for patients.
Offering a lifestyle-improving, money-saving perk has tangible benefits to employees. This not only boosts morale but also increases retention and productivity.
Telehealth: supporting mental health in the workplace
Mental health support is a critical aspect of telehealth services. Virtual counselling eliminates logistical barriers, making it easier for employees to access help when needed.
For patients concerned about stigma of being seen seeking mental health treatment, the online version offers greater anonymity. Additionally, these services allow employees to schedule sessions at their convenience, improving engagement with treatment plans.
Investing in your workers health
Absenteeism and illness bring a huge financial cost to companies. Telemedicine cuts down on employees having to take time off to visit doctors in person. Additionally, it can play a part in maintaining a healthier, happier workplace overall.
We also discussed a different employee healthcare issue, in our guide to helping workers with their sleep.
Healthcare to suit your workforce
At Allianz Partners, we provide comprehensive international health insurance for business. Our telehealth services are designed to meet the needs of mobile workforces, ensuring employees receive top-tier care wherever they are. Talk to us about our range of international health insurance products today.
