Business Group on Health: 2022 Large Employers’ Health Care Strategy and Plan Design Survey
The 2022 Large Employers’ Health Care Strategy and Plan Design Survey asked large employers about changes they made to their health care programs and benefits in 2021, while looking ahead to 2022. The results reflect the perspectives and plan designs of 136 large employers that cover more than 8 million lives. The takeaway: Roughly three-quarters of the nation’s large businesses expanded their telehealth programs for employees during the pandemic, and many may use those channels in the future to address social determinants of health and improve access to mental health services.
According to the survey, some 94 percent of large businesses are anticipating an increase in medical services due to delayed care. Some 91 percent are concerned about long-term mental health effects of the pandemic, 76 percent expect chronic care management needs to increase, and 68 percent are worried about an increase in late-stage cancer treatments because employees skipped or delayed wellness visits or check-ups.
The survey also notes an increase in on-site clinics, and an opportunity for businesses and telehealth providers to expand virtual care through that platform. Some 44 percent of businesses surveyed had such clinics in place prior to the pandemic, and 14 percent are either adding a clinic in the coming year or considering one over the next few years.