The state of mental health benefits in the workplace has seen significant improvements in recent years, particularly as a response to the heightened awareness and demands brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Anna Vredenburgh, director of health policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, “America’s mental health crisis has squarely entered our national consciousness. The silver lining of the pandemic’s devastation is a recognition that what we were doing before was not sufficient.” For American employers, it underscored the need to accelerate investments and accessibility in mental health in the workplace.
One of the strengths of the employer-sponsored insurance (ESI) system is the ability to innovate offerings, adapt benefits, and respond to the evolving health needs of a workforce. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, in 2021, about 159 million Americans received health insurance through their employers, which accounts for nearly half of the non-elderly population. This makes ESI a major source of health coverage in the United States. Its flexibility and dynamic benefit design are part of why employees report high satisfaction with the coverage they get at work.
Several Key Advancements Highlight Progress in Mental Health Coverage
Increased Investment by Employers
Recent Mercer survey findings are striking: The mental health of employees is a priority for the overwhelming majority of American businesses. Since the pandemic, demand for mental health services has dramatically increased, and the employer health system is responding. The survey revealed that 94% of large employers have strengthened mental health coverage, introduced new support systems, or expanded access to mental health programs in the past three years. Employers resoundingly recognize that good mental health is beneficial not only for employees but also for business performance, leading to significant resource allocation toward mental health initiatives.
Expansion of Telehealth Services
The pandemic catalyzed the rapid expansion of telehealth services, making mental health care more accessible. As of today, 72% of large companies report having expanded their telehealth networks or options. Temporary policy changes allowed providers to conduct telehealth visits from their homes and across state lines. They can also use more platforms, enhancing flexibility for both providers and patients. That flexibility supported providers who faced an influx of patients and allowed patients more flexibility to access care. Providers didn’t need a preexisting relationship with patients. Patients didn’t need to go to an in-person visit ahead of being eligible for telehealth appointments.
Enhanced Employee Support Programs
The good news is that 68% of large companies have added or improved supports such as employee assistance programs (EAPs), mental health classes, or access to wellness apps. About 28% expanded mental health coverage within their existing health plans. In addition, employers are also putting in place workforce training to support those with mental health needs and making changes in the office to promote mental wellness at work.
The Roundup
While substantial progress has been made in improving mental health benefits at work, there is still much to be done. Innovative approaches and sustained commitment from employers, policymakers, and the broader community are essential to continue this momentum and create a healthier, more supportive workplace environment for everyone. Brokers who bring creative approaches to mental health coverage to employers do a great service to the community.
Look to your Amwins Connect Regional Sales Representative for collaboration on workplace solutions for your clients.