In a world where uncertainty is a constant companion, insurance cover offers a reassuring safety net for individuals and families alike, but that’s not all they offer. In our latest Health & Financial Fears research, we surveyed 2,000 UK workers and found that a surprising 40% were unaware of any additional benefits available with their policy.
Most insurance comes with value added benefits and services that are available to use without needing to make a claim. These value-added benefits can prove to be game changers, enhancing not only physical well-being but also mental health and overall quality of life.
Remote GP appointments
With the NHS facing pressure the top concern about personal health and wellbeing in our research was the waiting time for treatments and operations with 39% of respondents listing it as a concern. Which is why remote GP appointments are the most popular benefit included with our policies, used by almost two thirds of members registered on our Healthwise member app.
This is why we have enhanced our value-added benefits so members have unlimited remote GP appointments, from the comfort of their own homes.
Mental health support
68% of those surveyed said their mental health has been adversely affected by cost of living or difficulty accessing health services. Mental health support* is another popular benefit for our members, and is used more than once with 89% of consultations booked by members that have booked a consultation previously.
Healthwise
During 2023 so far, usage of our member app Healthwise has increased 45% on 20221, showing a growing awareness and need for these benefits. And the good news is that Healthwise has recently undergone enhancements, making it even better for members with unlimited remote GP appointments, the removal of in-app charges for referrals, fit notes and prescriptions, the addition of an annual health MOT check for policyholders**, and more.
The new health MOT is a finger-prick test you can take in the comfort of your own home that checks 20 different health markers such as diabetes, cholesterol status and liver health. You'll receive a personalised health report and recommended course of action in the HealthWise app and if needed, you can book a follow-up consultation with a GP to discuss the results. By prioritising preventive care, members can mitigate health risks and potentially reduce long-term illness.
These benefits are not just perks; they can be lifelines, promoting physical and mental well-being. As advisers, it is crucial to emphasise the value of these added benefits, ensuring your clients are aware of everything they receive with a policy so they can fully leverage them for a healthier, happier, and more secure future. In a world where health and well-being are paramount, these hidden gems in policies can make all the difference. And remember, accessing any of the benefits available on HealthWise won’t affect your client’s policy details, premiums, or No Claims Discounts, if one applies.***
Sources
1. HealthWise usage stats January-October 2023
HealthWise is provided by Square Health.
*Mental health support is only available with an Income First or Health+ policy.
**Health MOTs are available for the policyholder only and limited to one per year.
***Please note that if your clients use a referral from HealthWise to claim on their health insurance policy, additional medical information may be required from their usual GP.