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Telehealth is Evolving and Can Provide Measurable Benefits to Employers

taylor oswald March 6, 2024
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Waist-up shot of a young girl sitting on her father's knee in the kitchen. They are on a video calling a nurse on a laptop.

Telehealth has become a game-changer in health care delivery, offering flexibility and convenience. But for busy HR executives, keeping pace with its constant evolution can be challenging.

We’re here to unlock the full potential of telehealth and empower you to create an employee benefits package that prioritizes well-being and drives business success.

Telehealth encompasses a diverse set of tools and technologies that facilitate remote health care delivery, including live video conferencing. Telehealth also includes secure messaging of images, videos, documents and texts, phone consultations, wearable devices, mobile apps and patient portals.

While you are likely familiar with the idea that telehealth provides convenient access to health care providers, there are many deeper benefits to employer and employee.

  • Increased access to care: Telehealth eliminates geographical barriers and can be particularly beneficial for employees in remote locations or with busy schedules.
  • Reduced costs: Telehealth visits are generally cheaper than traditional in-person visits, potentially lowering health care costs for both employers and employees.
  • Improved employee productivity: Reduced travel time and increased access to care can lead to fewer missed workdays and increased employee productivity.
  • Enhanced employee satisfaction: Offering telehealth demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being and can boost employee satisfaction.

Telehealth has experienced significant and rapid evolution over the past five years, driven by technological advancements and shifts in health care accessibility.

In 2022, 25% of patients used telehealth services and it’s expected to grow gradually in the coming years, according to the American Medical Association. As such services gain popularity, an employee benefits plan without them could be a major obstacle in attracting top talent.

Telehealth enables human resource departments to build a more thoughtful, inclusive plan that removes potential barriers.

Telehealth can play a significant role in managing chronic pain conditions and mental health. Providing employees access helps the individuals and addresses health care-related workplace shortages. Of the top 10 preventable absences (according to The Hartford), the majority could be aided with telehealth services.

Having a broker who gets you up to speed now and keeps looking out for you as the evolution continues is key.

Taylor Oswald understands telehealth services today, works to ensure your chosen carrier provides best-in-class options, and helps you communicate that to your employees. Plus, our comprehensive approach as a partner can look even deeper, addressing, for example, the security measures in place to protect sensitive patient information.

To continue to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of telehealth, cost effectiveness and access, I can explain the data and position your company well today and into the future.

To learn more, contact us here.