Mental health is a rapidly growing concern in America, and employers are starting to take action. In a forthcoming survey, 94% of large employers (500 or more employees) reported that they have strengthened their coverage for mental health care, increased support, or put in place new programs or systems to help in the last three years.
Mercer, a business consultancy with expertise in health benefit design, recently fielded the survey of American businesses to better understand how they’re thinking and acting on a host of health policy issues that affect their health and welfare benefit programs. More than 300 companies from across the country took part in the survey, answering questions related to mental health and substance abuse disorders, among other topics.
The findings are striking: the mental health of employees is a priority for the overwhelming majority of American businesses.
One of the ways to break down barriers to mental health services is by facilitating access to treatment via telehealth, and 72% of large companies in the survey reported that they have added virtual behavioral healthcare networks or telehealth options for their workers. About two-thirds (68%) have added or enhanced supports like employee assistance programs, classes, or access to apps to help promote mental health, and 28% have expanded mental health coverage within their existing health plans.
The survey also asks businesses to identify obstacles to facilitating access to mental health services. We know that despite the commitment of employers to support the mental health of their workers, too many still find it difficult to access care. The top response in the survey, with 65% citing it as a challenge, is the issue of too few qualified mental health professionals practicing in America.
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