Many Employers are Planning to Expand Onsite Health Center Services

June 11, 2014

Employers everywhere are feeling the pressure to keep their workers more healthy and productive. Research shows that many employers with onsite medical care are looking to expand their services further, and they are planning to extend the eligible audience for health services.

A recent survey found that more than 60 percent of companies keep their health services active to ensure employees stay more productive. In addition to this, more than 55 percent of employers established centers to reduce costs. Less than 50 percent of employers offered onsite care to improve access to vital services. Some of the most common services these onsite medical centers provide include immunizations, physical therapy, coaching, biometric screenings, basic medical services and pharmacies.

About 80 percent of centers offer biometric screenings, and 70 percent of centers offer urgent care and first-response services. In addition to this, more than 60 percent offer primary care. Almost 30 percent of employers stated that they plan to add telemedicine to their future capabilities. While almost 10 percent want to include primary care services, less than 10 percent plan to add onsite pharmacies and physical therapy.

Many employers believe that offering these services in the workplace will give employees the incentive they need to seek necessary treatments and medications. The reward for employers is more focused and productive staff members. It is also a good way for larger companies to control costs. While these centers may not be a good fit for all companies, they can certainly benefit many employers and employees. By reaching out to a greater audience, companies stand to benefit even further.

Almost 40 percent of workplaces with onsite care facilities let the spouses and children of workers use their centers. In the near future, this number is expected to grow by more than 10 percent. Long-term growth is also expected. In addition to this, many employers are planning to let former workers using COBRA into their centers. Some employers also plan to let contract workers or temporary employees use these services. Allowing spouses, children, former workers and temporary workers to use these valuable onsite centers will add value to both the companies offering them and their employees.

Research shows that both employees and employers where there are onsite health services view them positively. Employers stated that about 75 percent of their senior management members support these centers. Almost 60 percent of employees reported feeling very satisfied with both the quality and level of care they receive with onsite medical services. Less than 10 percent of employers felt their ROI was not good. Close to 40 percent stated that their ROI was good, but the remaining amount of employers interviewed did not track their ROI. Determining ROI can be difficult for companies that are not familiar with the task. However, learning may be a wise investment for companies that benefit from onsite care centers. To learn more about the implications of onsite care in the workplace, discuss concerns with an agent.