Dawn Lewis
Content Editor, Reward & Employee Benefits Association (REBA)
Discover why UK employers are prioritising preventative health benefits to boost performance, cut costs and attract talent as NHS delays drive employee demand for private medical support.
Employee demand for health benefits, such as private medical insurance, has increased largely due to ongoing NHS challenges. Long waiting lists, challenges accessing GP appointments and treatment delays have employees turn to their employer for support with their health. Likewise, employers recognise the power of investing in workplace health, and how it can lead to a more resilient, engaged and high-performing workforce.
Employee motivation drives wellbeing
The Reward & Employee Benefits Association’s (REBA’s) 10th annual Health and Wellbeing Research 2025, together with AXA Health, found improving employee motivation/performance and being an employer of choice is the primary driver for implementing preventative health initiatives and benefits in more than half (53%) of organisations.
Preventative health supports productivity
It is prevention that is particularly important. Examples of a preventative approach can range from providing access to mental health apps that offer self-help or meditation to health cash plans, which enable employees to claim money back on everyday healthcare expenses such as dental and optical checkups.
Health screenings, which can range from a 15-minute health check to a comprehensive physical examination, can further help employers ensure employees stay ahead, flagging potential health issues before they develop into more serious conditions.
A preventative health and wellbeing strategy is now seen as essential by employers, given the rising levels of ill-health in the UK. Figures from the Health Foundation show that 4 million working-age individuals are out of work for health-related reasons, while 3.9 million employed people have work-limiting conditions — an increase of 1.5 million since 2013.
The evolution of digital tools is enabling
faster, more personalised access to
medical care and services.
Prevention over treatment trend
Coupled with the increasing cost of providing health benefits, employers are placing greater emphasis on supporting employees’ health and wellbeing before they fall ill, helping them remain in the workforce.
This shift towards prioritising prevention is supported by the increasing use of digital health tools, such as virtual GPs. The evolution of digital tools is enabling faster, more personalised access to medical care and services.
Cutting costs through preventative care
REBA’s research shows that three-quarters (75%) of respondent employers believe preventative health and wellbeing strategies will mitigate rising health costs in the next five years. While just under two-thirds (63%) say access to early care via digital health tools will also help to minimise costs.
As the challenge to attract talent remains and more employees live and work with long-term conditions, employers must adjust their approach to health and wellbeing. This not only helps them remain competitive but also attracts and retains a healthy and productive workforce.
