Aviva’s neurodevelopmental pathway has grown to support over 160,000 employees and their dependents since its launch last year.
The pathway is an expert-led programme that aims to speed up the testing and diagnosis of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Tourette’s syndrome and gives members support for diagnosis and guidance to help them manage their condition.
In collaboration with Onebright, the pathway delivers personalised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and ongoing support, including up to two years of ADHD medication management consultations.
The pathway assisted nearly 2,400 members and dependents, with an average of 206 monthly claims in its first year. Adults accounted for around 73 per cent of claims, with the remainder going to children aged 7 to 15.
The majority of adults, 74 per cent, and nearly half of children, 47 per cent, requested ADHD exams, whereas 26 per cent of adults and 51 per cent of children had ASD assessments. Tourette’s syndrome evaluations were uncommon, with less than 1 per cent of adults and 1.5 per cent of children receiving one.
The pathway is available as an optional benefit for companies covering over 250 members on an Aviva Optimum private healthcare scheme.
Aviva medical director Dr Doug Wright says: “Around 15-20 per cent of all the people living in the world are thought to have a neuro-difference, meaning that they think or communicate differently to others around them. Many of these will be undiagnosed, which can cause challenges particularly in relation to mental health.
“This is where support such as Aviva’s Neurodevelopmental Pathway can make a big difference, by enabling group members and their dependents to access expert clinical and workplace support.
“Getting a diagnosis can really help an individual make sense of their feelings and behaviours. It also helps them understand what support they need. They can then work together with their employer and neurodiversity experts to agree and implement workplace adaptations tailored to their unique needs.”
Onebright head of account management Sarah Carter says: “For individuals who think they may have a neurodevelopmental condition, having an assessment and receiving a diagnosis can be life changing. It is so important that by receiving the right tools and support, individuals feel they can move forward with positivity, peace, and productivity.
“The feedback we have received from Aviva customers about the success of the pathway in the first year has been incredible, and we look forward to our continued work together to help more employees access the support they need.”
