NATDA Magazine May/June 2023 | Page 25

Telehealth Services continued

While the first-generation telehealth services , where a doctor on a screen solves a problem , launched in 2002 , it was the global pandemic that pushed it to the forefront . Telehealth was in high demand and was forced into handling mass amounts of patients . Thankfully , decades of research helped with readiness .
These services allow healthcare providers to connect with patients remotely , providing care and support without the need for in-person visits . By creating a virtual care clinic where members can have doctor visits , mental health therapy , medications , and specialists all on one platform , both employers and employees benefit .
Access to Care For many employees , accessing healthcare services can be challenging . They may have limited mobility , live in rural areas , find long waiting lists for a specialist , or have other barriers to accessing care . Telehealth services can help overcome these barriers , allowing employees to connect with healthcare providers from anywhere with an internet connection . This improved access to care can help employees manage their health more effectively . For employers , remote access and short wait times reduce the amount of time an employee is out of the office for doctor appointments .
Integration of Services Not only do employees have greater access to doctors , but virtual clinics allow you to offer a wide range of specialists and services , such as mental health services or pharmacy programs . Having access to this ecosystem allows employees to manage their health more effectively , with better patient outcomes , leading to fewer sick days and lower healthcare costs overall .
Affordability As an organization , you must manage the cost of your benefits . As cost rise , that is passed to your employees , which can be met with frustration and backlash . Telehealth services can help companies reduce healthcare costs in several ways . First , it reduces healthcare costs by eliminating the need for costly office visits or preventing chronic conditions from worsening , reducing the need for hospital stays or expensive treatments down the road .
A telemedicine program allows you to swap out a variable rate with a fixed fee . Lowering the out-of-pocket cost for you as well as your employees , showing them that you value them and their healthcare experience .
Employee Engagement and Retainment When companies offer telehealth services , employees feel supported and appreciated . They know they can access healthcare services quickly and easily , and if they manage chronic conditions , these services reduce stress and improve their overall quality of life . In today ’ s job market , employees are looking for employers who offer benefits that support their overall well-being , and telehealth services can be a significant selling point .
There is an absolute benefit to having access to a virtual care clinic . Integrated platforms improve the experience of healthcare for everyone involved . While not replacing the need for major medical services , telehealth services compliments and works alongside the plan to create a “ come to us first ” experience . Convenient access to care , less time away from work , physician access outside of normal business hours , and prescription drugs delivered to their door - helps employees to access care on their schedule . The future of medicine lies in telehealth and virtual clinics , offering access to virtual care is an important addition to your benefits programs .
Hilb Group is proud to be endorsed by the North American Trailer Dealers Association ( NATDA ) as its provider of insurance and risk management solutions and services to NATDA ’ s 900 + members . Partnering with a leading provider of Property & Casualty Insurance products , Hilb Group delivers a premier insurance program with enhanced coverages for NATDA members . To learn more about Hilb Group ’ s telehealth offering , visit hilbgroup . com / specialty-programs / trailer-dealers
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