How Telehealth Benefits Employees

As COVID-19 continues to affect the lives of millions of people worldwide, many businesses have recognized the importance of prioritizing the mental and physical health of their employees. 

One of the many ways companies are doing so is by rethinking their benefits offerings. Over the past year, more businesses are offering their employees telehealth services than ever before.

What is Telehealth?

Also known as e-medicine or telemedicine, telehealth services give employees access to virtual healthcare services. Telehealth enables employees to call or video chat with a doctor who can diagnose symptoms and prescribe treatment—all over the phone.

As companies transition into hybrid workplaces, how can telehealth benefit employees and prepare them for a healthy return to the office?

Let’s take a closer look.

Improved Access to Healthcare

Prior to telehealth, employees who lived in isolated or rural areas had very few options for healthcare providers. In emergencies, those who required immediate care often faced serious consequences due to the lack of convenient and accessible healthcare services.

Telehealth enables all of your employees to receive the healthcare services they need right at their fingertips—regardless of where they’re located.

Safety & Social Distancing

Since COVID-19 is still spreading, employees can benefit from telehealth services because it enables them to stay socially distant. This can drastically reduce the risk of COVID-19 exposure, as they will not be in close proximity to healthcare workers or other patients.

Knowing they can rely on easy access to healthcare and feel safe interacting with their provider also helps reduce employee stress and gives them a sense of security.

Convenience

By using telehealth, employees can receive immediate medical assistance without having to wait hours or days to see a doctor. Most employees will be able to speak to their doctor in just a few minutes—which is a stark contrast from the conventional in-office wait time. 

With healthcare readily available 24/7 through mobile apps or online channels, employees can save on time and resources. Not having to drive, take time off work, or spend money to commute to their in-person appointments allows for more flexibility and convenience.

Reduced Healthcare Costs 

Since there is no physical office space required for treating the patient, the costs associated with virtual care are lower. Decreased insurance costs means your employees will not have to worry about expensive deductions, co-pays, and other related in-office expenses. 

The right employee benefits plans can help your company attract and retain top talent in the industry, especially during this pandemic. To learn more about how benefits can impact your employee behavior, check out Benefit Systems: How Rewards Affect Employee Behavior.