Moving beyond typical benefits offerings to deliver a comprehensive mental health solution

In an era where mental health is at the forefront of conversations around employee well-being, the role of HR and benefits leaders in delivering effective resources that meet the needs of their workforce has never been more crucial.

There are many options for mental health solutions, from digital treatments to therapy services. Both of these are incredibly effective alone, but what benefits those seeking care most is a combination of resources that complement one another and cover a full spectrum of needs — which is what Big Health can help you achieve.

One care model that stands out to many is virtual care (human-delivered therapy). Virtual care offers many benefits that make it a strong addition to a benefits ecosystem, which we’ll cover in more detail here. When combined with clinically validated digital programs available on demand, the two offerings can serve as a transformative and comprehensive solution.

Elimination of barriers

Traditional mental health care models often face barriers such as accessibility, cost, and time constraints. Virtual care addresses these challenges head-on, bringing mental health care directly to employees’ fingertips. With the aid of technologies like video calls and real-time messaging, health care professionals can engage with employees remotely, breaking down geographical barriers and providing timely access to expert advice.

Quick access to expert care

When it comes to mental health, every moment matters. While the average wait time to see a provider in person is nearly eight weeks, virtual care allows a patient to see a provider promptly, sometimes within 48 hours or less. The immediacy of virtual care ensures that individuals can access expert guidance without the delays associated with traditional settings.

Enhanced employee experience

Most of us have had one of those days at work. You’ve been sleeping terribly all week, and Employees appreciate organizations that invest in their well-being. Virtual care can be a valuable addition to a benefits ecosystem, signaling a commitment to providing accessible and convenient health care solutions. This not only enhances the overall employee experience but also contributes to a positive and health-focused company culture.

Cost-effectiveness

Virtual care can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional health care. By reducing the need for in-person visits and streamlining administrative processes, organizations can optimize health care spending. One study found that by using virtual care instead of in-person care, patients’ health care costs decreased by 61% and had lower overall health care utilization. This cost efficiency is beneficial to both employers and employees.

Flexibility for diverse organizations

Modern workplaces are characterized by diverse and remote teams. Virtual care that offers access to a robust provider network complements these dynamics by offering flexibility to employees across different locations and time zones as well as those with different demographic preferences for a therapist. This inclusivity ensures that health care is not a privilege limited to certain individuals but rather is an option accessible to all employees.

Improved health outcomes

Offering virtual care empowers employees to take a proactive approach to their mental health with continuous support and guidance. Research has shown that virtual mental health care has higher attendance rates and equivalent or better outcomes than in-person treatment. Regular check-ins, personalized advice, and ongoing communication with mental health professionals enable employees to stay on top of their mental health and manage conditions before they worsen.

Deliver a comprehensive offering for your organization

By embracing technology to connect employees with health care professionals, organizations can enhance their benefits offerings and foster a culture of support for mental health through every step of the journey. As HR and benefits leaders consider the evolving needs of their workforce, human-delivered virtual care should stand out as an impactful addition to their toolkit.

And, when combined with the power of evidence-based digital treatments and programs that fill some of the gaps that exist in virtual care, like on-demand sessions available 24/7 and a stigma-free environment, you’ll be able to deliver a full spectrum of mental health support. The benefits of virtual care combined with digital programs extend beyond immediate health outcomes and influence employee satisfaction, engagement, and the overall success of the organization in attracting and retaining top talent.

Contact us today to learn how Big Health can help you deliver a comprehensive solution.