Entrepreneurs face many challenges when it comes to building a successful company, and one of the largest is finding and retaining talented employees. In order to attract and retain top talent, entrepreneurs need to offer more than just a competitive salary and benefits package — they need to offer a work environment that supports employee health and well-being.
Post-pandemic, telemedicine has become an increasingly popular way for individuals to receive medical care without having to leave their homes. But telemedicine isn’t just for individuals seeking primary care through a doctor’s office — it is also be a valuable resource for entrepreneurs looking to make an investment in both the health and well-being of their employees and the future of their company. In fact, one of the top-five expanded employee benefits in 2021 was telemedicine services.
Here are just a few reasons why entrepreneurs should consider integrating telemedicine services into their companies:
Increased Access to Care
Telemedicine allows employees to receive medical care from anywhere, at any time. This means that employees who may have difficulty accessing traditional healthcare services, such as those who work remotely, live in rural areas, or have mobility issues, can still receive the care they need.
This increased access to care can help prevent minor health issues from becoming major problems, and can improve overall employee health. In addition, time away from the office for travel to reach care is a non-issue.
Improved Productivity
When employees are able to receive medical care without having to leave their homes or take time off work, they are more likely to seek out the care they need. This can lead to fewer sick days, and can help prevent minor health issues from becoming major problems that require extended time off work. Ultimately, this can lead to improved productivity and a healthier, happier team.
Lower Healthcare Costs
By providing access to telemedicine services to employees, entrepreneurs can help reduce healthcare costs for both themselves and their teams. Telemedicine visits are typically less expensive than traditional in-person visits, and can help reduce the number of expensive emergency room visits that employees may need to make.
This can result in significant cost savings for both the company and its employees. A recent study by Jefferson Health System calculated that “each avoided emergency department visit garnered cost savings ranging from $309 to more than $1,500.”
Improved Employee Satisfaction
When employees feel that their employer is invested in their health and well-being, they are more likely to feel satisfied with their job and more loyal to the company. By offering telemedicine services, leaders can demonstrate their commitment to the health and well-being of their employees, which can lead to improved employee satisfaction and retention.
In fact, The American Journal of Managed Care reported that patients perceive virtual healthcare experiences as better than office visits in convenience and cost, and with the same level of quality and personal connection.
Access to Specialists
Telemedicine services offer employees access to a network of healthcare providers that may not be available in their area. This means that employees who require specialized care can receive it without having to travel long distances or take time off work. This can be especially valuable for companies that have employees who live in remote areas or who require specialized care for chronic conditions.
Improved Mental Health
Telemedicine services can also be used to provide mental health care to employees. Many people who suffer from mental health issues may not seek out care due to stigma or lack of access to providers. Telemedicine can help remove these barriers to care, making it easier for employees to get the help they need. By offering mental health services through telemedicine, entrepreneurs can help improve the mental health of their employees and create a more supportive work environment.
Make an Investment in Your Business with Telemedicine
Overall, there are many reasons why entrepreneurs should consider incorporating telemedicine services into their companies. From increased access to care to improved employee satisfaction and mental health, telemedicine can be a valuable resource for any company looking to improve the health and well-being of its employees. By offering telemedicine services as a benefit to their employees, entrepreneurs can create a work environment that supports employee health and well-being, which can lead to improved productivity, reduced healthcare costs, and a happier team.
