The pandemic has brought several financial and healthcare challenges, making health insurance more important than ever. Not surprisingly, American employers are going the extra mile to optimize cost and coverage in the new normal. The idea is to maximize coverage during the pandemic without burdening the company budget. Small and large companies want to keep costs stable for the employees as they continue to face pay cuts. Employees are also more watchful about coverage as personal finances run tight. The health insurance sector has changed immensely during this phase, and it is essential to understand the impact of these changes. Let us highlight them for you.
Focus on mental healthcare
The impact of the pandemic goes beyond the physical risks of contracting the infection. It is equally taxing for the mind, as financial apprehension and social isolation prevail. Experts recommend that the focus should be on mental healthcare right now. Employers should do their bit by widening the employee insurance cover to include counseling and video consultations by mental health experts.
Inclusion of telemedicine coverage
The pandemic led to the growth of the telemedicine system as Americans couldn’t step out for personal consultations. The new-age healthcare policies include telehealth consults in their coverage. Since this care delivery method is likely to be around for the foreseeable future, insurers must provide it, and customers should expect it. Even if you need to pay a tad more to get telemedicine coverage, you must do it without thinking twice.
Switch from traditional insurance models
The transition from the traditional insurance models to non-traditional ones is another implication of the pandemic. For example, companies can pick self-insurance options during low-claims years to maximize savings. With this model, they have to pay for claims as incurred instead of bearing the fixed costs of a traditional plan. If you operate a company in New York, you can consult a health insurance broker in NYC to discuss such options. The goal is to find creative ways to cover your employees without spending a fortune.
Emphasis on voluntary coverage
When it comes to providing insurance offerings for employees in 2021, employers need to broaden the voluntary coverage for employees. With this option, employees can pay out of pocket to get the additional benefits they want. However, it may take some effort to convince workers to shell out an extra amount by explaining the value of these benefits. But the effort is worthwhile to build a healthy and secure workforce.
Providers adapting to COVID-19 uncertainties
Insurance providers also need to realign with the current situations as customers expect them to be more flexible. They can offer some perks to help the insured deal with the uncertainties and curb barriers to care. For example, insurers can waive prior authorization norms for COVID-19 hospital admissions. They can cover free COVID-19 tests or increased access to medications for chronic conditions during the pandemic. Right now, providers must convey the intention to serve customers during the crisis.
Like every other industry, the healthcare insurance sector has witnessed a far-reaching impact of the pandemic. It is vital for insurers, employers, and employees to understand these trends and renew their expectations accordingly.