Healthcare concierge service TouchCare today released new data in its Predictions for the Future of Benefits report, revealing the ways COVID-19 has transformed how people engage with healthcare benefits. The data is pulled from TouchCare’s client base, which includes thousands of companies ranging from Fortune 500s to startups.
Notably, the data shows a 300 percent increase in cases created by members of the Gen Z demographic versus 2019. This is the largest increase across generational demographics, while other groups remained consistent. This dramatic increase in Gen Z’s usage of healthcare benefits is only the beginning – TouchCare predicts similar growth in 2021, indicating a critical need for providers to cater to Gen Z audiences.
TouchCare data also revealed a 100 percent increase in behavioral health requests versus before the pandemic, and that behavioral health needs rose and fell in direct correlation with national COVID-19 outbreaks. This indicates the immediate impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on mental health and the growing need for mental health services as the pandemic continues into 2021. Because the health toll of the virus goes far beyond those whose physical health has been impacted, providers will need to be prepared with mental health resources during any future spikes or hiccups as the next stages of the virus and vaccine deployment play out.
"TouchCare data also revealed a 100 percent increase in behavioral health requests versus before the pandemic, and that behavioral health needs rose and fell in direct correlation with national COVID-19 outbreaks."
Increased requests for telemedicine services is another notable change, with virtual health service requests or mentions in TouchCare tickets doubling since lockdown orders were put into effect nationwide in March. TouchCare member data suggests that the utilization of virtual care will continue to grow in a post-COVID world as more patients and healthcare providers become accustomed to giving and receiving care without leaving the comfort of their homes.
“There is no question that the COVID pandemic has irreversibly altered the state of healthcare benefits,” said Rob LaHayne, CEO, TouchCare. “This year, we saw a 153 percent jump in the number of people taking advantage of TouchCare services, indicating a real need for guidance when it comes to understanding healthcare benefits. As the vaccine roll-out creates both hope and confusion for consumers of healthcare, we will continue to make it a priority to educate consumers and ensure they can get the most value from their healthcare benefits.”
To read the full Predictions for the Future of Benefits report, visit www.touchcare.com/whitepaper
About TouchCare
TouchCare is a healthcare concierge service. Its team of Health Assistants helps members save money while making the best decision possible regarding healthcare plans. Furthermore, TouchCare assists members with the navigation of their healthcare benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and all ancillary benefits. TouchCare conducts regularly scheduled webinars for clients throughout the year, primarily focusing on employee wellness in and out of the workplace. The company partners with the business’s existing HR department to provide open enrollment support and guidance. TouchCare offers 30-minute consultations with members, where they can provide insight on which individual health care plan would benefit them the most. For more information, visit TouchCare.com.