ICYMI: Our Health Care System Is Providing Access To Quality Coverage Options

WASHINGTON – As health care remains at the top of voters’ minds during this critical time, America’s leading doctors, nurses, clinicians, hospitals, health insurance providers, biopharmaceutical companies and employers are committed to working together so every American has access to health coverage and care.

In fact, employers are offering more care options from virtual doctors’ visits and expanded mental health benefits to on-site health clinics. “Some 53% of large employers will offer more virtual care options next year …  And they are extending the services to weight management, prenatal care and management of chronic diseases, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” CNN reports. 

Companies plan to bolster their support and make employees more aware of the offerings available to them, said Mark Hope, senior director at Willis Towers Watson.  Some 45% of large employers are planning to work with their insurers to expand mental health provider networks, according to the Business Group on Health report. Some 91% of large employers said they would offer virtual mental health services in 2021, up from 73% in 2019.  And 65% said they would provide virtual emotional well-being services next year, up from 45% in 2019.  And nearly nine in 10 employers will offer access to online mental health resources, including apps, videos and webinars.  Meanwhile, 61% of employers plan to have an on-site clinics, which can provide coronavirus testing, in addition to basic health services.  This ticked up from 58% this year.

With millions of Americans depending on our health care system, we should build on and improve what’s working where private coverage, Medicare, and Medicaid work together to expand access to coverage and care for every American – not start over.