A new joint survey by organizations including The National Business Group on Health found consumers want their employers to do more in order to help them get the most out of their employer-provided health and wellness plans and improve their health.
Researchers found about three-quarters of those surveyed voiced concerns about their ability to afford healthcare in the future, as mounting costs force many employers to shift more healthcare and benefits expenses to workers.
More than 3,000 employees and dependents covered by employer-provided health insurance and benefits packages were surveyed. According to researchers, employers' attempts to modify and adjust their plan design and wellness strategies may be hampered by a lack of focus on the goals, needs and concerns of employees.
"Employers continue to face countless challenges when it comes to offering health plans that effectively meet the needs of workers and their families, while also managing rising costs," said National Business Group on Health president and CEO Helen Darling.
Employees expressed a desire for plans that have limited complexity, now that they are being required to do more to manage their own health and the related costs. Researchers also recommended employers attempt to tailor information to employees' specific situations and use rewards or incentives to motivate employees to adopt healthier behaviors that maintain wellness.
