How digital tools are changing employee wellbeing

Reimagining health coverage for employees

Health insurance for staff has evolved dramatically. Gone are the days when employee health cover was just a piece of paper in a welcome pack. Today, businesses are embracing digital health tools to transform medical insurance for employees, making health plans more accessible and effective.

What are "digital health tools”?

They are specific applications that make healthcare more convenient and accessible for workforces:

• Dental support and advice apps that let employees perform check-ups
• Online eye screening platforms that provide preliminary vision assessments
• Virtual GP services that offer consultations without lengthy wait times
• Digital physiotherapy assessments and personalised care plans

Aon suggests that, over the next five years, advancements in technology will enable businesses to offer more personalised health and benefits programmes¹. Why? Because these tools address critical healthcare access issues in ways traditional benefits simply can't match.

A holistic approach to health insurance

Standard benefits packages don't stand out anymore. Businesses that lead in talent retention are those offering health insurance for staff that integrates digital solutions - making healthcare easier, faster, and more personalised. A well-designed health plan for employees isn’t just about treatment; it’s about prevention and long-term wellbeing.

This means employees get mental health support when they need it, not after weeks on a waiting list. Health issues get spotted early. Specialist advice becomes available without frustrating delays. And for organisation? Fewer absences, lower healthcare costs, and a workforce that feels genuinely cared for.

Which digital tools do different generations actually want?

One of the biggest mistakes companies make is assuming everyone wants the same digital health tools. While there isn't a single source that outlines exact percentages for each age group's preferences, we can infer some trends:

Younger employees (18-29):

• Generally, younger workers are more open to using digital tools for health management. They often prefer quick access to routine care and preventive health screenings.
• There's a growing trend among younger generations to use health apps for tracking and managing health behaviours.

Mid-career professionals (30-45):

• This group tends to appreciate time-saving health technologies, such as virtual GP appointments and stress management tools.
• They value convenience and flexibility in accessing healthcare services without disrupting their work schedules.

Older employees (46+):

• Older workers often prioritise tools that help manage chronic conditions and medication. They also appreciate accessible telehealth consultations.
• Privacy and security are crucial, with a strong emphasis on protecting sensitive health data.

The takeaway? Don't choose digital health tools based on age stereotypes. What matters is offering options that address the specific healthcare frustrations each person faces.

Digital tools solving real healthcare pain points

Digital health tools have moved beyond theory to delivering measurable impacts. UK businesses lost over £28 billion to employee absence in 2024², with many absences linked to conditions that can be managed or prevented. The right digital tools can significantly reduce these numbers by addressing specific healthcare challenges.

The future of employee health insurance

The future of employee health insurance is about delivering comprehensive digital solutions that address real healthcare challenges. Digital platforms now offer critical support across multiple health dimensions. Mental health tools provide immediate access to support, from mood tracking to virtual therapy sessions, eliminating lengthy waiting lists. Beyond mental health, digital physiotherapy platforms enable employees to receive personalised care plans and assessments remotely. Dental support apps allow for quick check-ups, while online eye screening platforms provide convenient

preliminary vision assessments. Virtual GP services offer consultations without traditional time constraints, and comprehensive health tracking tools help employees manage their overall wellbeing.

What works best? Platforms offering choices. The most effective health coverage for employees provide digital tools for daily wellbeing alongside facilitated access to face-to-face support when needed³.

The privacy question: addressing legitimate concerns

Privacy has become a paramount concern in digital health insurance, with 79% of UK healthcare providers experiencing data breaches since 2021⁴. The best effective health insurance to employees now address privacy clearly with:

• Simple explanations about what data is collected and how it's protected
• Straightforward opt-in processes that give real choice
• Clear policies about GDPR compliance and data access
• Regular updates on security measures

Stay ahead of the curve

As we move into 2025, businesses must rethink their health insurance for workers. Digital tools are no longer optional - they are essential for any health plan for employees looking to provide real value and impact. Companies that haven't updated their approach may find themselves struggling to attract talent and manage healthcare costs.

The digital health revolution is here. Medical insurance for employees is no longer about reactive treatment, but proactive, personalised health management. As we move further into 2025, companies that recognise and implement these advanced health insurance strategies will lead the way in employee care and organisational success.

Sources

1. https://www.aon.com/en/insights/articles/how-technology-will-transform-employee-benefits-in-the-next-five-years?collection=5b1456a2-3649-4a1d-82de-4ce97e2bec27

2. https://www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/dayslost.htm

3. https://humanoo.com/en/magazin/digital-platforms-corporate-wellbeing/

4. https://itbrief.co.uk/story/increase-in-security-breaches-in-uk-healthcare-sector