Health Benefits In 2021: Employer Programs Evolving In Response To The COVID-19 Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Health Economics
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted workplaces and healthcare access.
• Understanding the impact on employer-sponsored health insurance is crucial for policy and employee well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess key metrics of the Kaiser Family Foundation Employer Health Benefits Survey in the second year since the pandemic's onset.
• To identify changes and adaptations in employer-offered health benefits in response to the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the second annual Kaiser Family Foundation Employer Health Benefits Survey data.
• Comparison of key metrics (premiums, offer/coverage rates, worker contributions) with prior years and prepandemic levels.
• Examination of employer-reported changes to specific benefits like telemedicine and wellness programs.

Main Results:

• Average premiums for single and family coverage increased by 4%, mirroring the previous year's trend.
• Offer and coverage rates remained stable, similar to prepandemic levels.
• Worker contributions to premiums were also consistent with prepandemic figures.
• Significant employer adaptation observed in expanding telemedicine benefits and modifying wellness programs for remote work.

Conclusions:

• Employer health benefits demonstrated resilience in core metrics despite pandemic-related disruptions.
• Employers proactively adapted benefit offerings, particularly in telehealth and remote-accessible wellness, to meet evolving employee needs.
• These findings highlight the dynamic nature of employer health benefits in response to public health crises.