The recent months of shutdowns, social distance and safety concerns have prompted people and businesses alike to rethink countless activities from grocery shopping to health benefit planning. As employers look toward 2021, one thing many are considering is the possibility of expanding virtual care and mental health service offerings.
Just as other industries such as retail and food have adapted to the ongoing, rapid change – the health industry has worked tirelessly to ensure patients continue to get the care they need both in office and at home. In fact, “virtual care is here to stay,” according to Ellen Kelsay, president and chief executive officer of Business Group on Health. “While employers have been implementing more virtual solutions in recent years,” Kelsay says, “virtual care is now garnering growing interest and receptivity from both employees and providers who increasingly see its benefit.”
In addition, there is a newfound interest in the expansion of access to mental health and emotional wellbeing services – especially when it comes to providing virtual options. This is a major step toward removing the stigma of seeking care.
One company in particular, SSM Health, has found a way to fulfill a great need in their community – treating people who suffer from chronic mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression and anxiety, as well as addiction to alcohol and opioids. The SSM Health Behavioral Health Urgent Care opened last month and plans to lean heavily on follow-up services at seven community mental health centers to provide necessary treatment. “We are not competing against each other anymore,” says regional vice president of behavioral health for SSM Health, Michelle Schafer. “We are coming together collaboratively to enhance the health of the community and use dollars differently so we can help more people.”
It has become clear that the extended period of isolation and uncertainty has not only impacted individuals with pre-existing mental health needs, but caused many to develop new issues like anxiety and depression – and employers are taking note.
A recent survey by Business Group on Health found that more employers are viewing their health care strategy as an integral part of their workforce strategy in 2021 – with 18% of respondents planning to provide manager training to help recognize behavioral health issues, 54% opting to lower or waive costs for virtual mental health services, and on-site clinics looking to grow 72%.
Despite continued uncertainty, one thing it appears we can count on are changes like virtual care and greater access to mental health care to ensure that we can get the care we need wherever we are.
