Bupa UK Insurance is launching a new lower-cost proposition to enable corporates to extend healthcare cover to a wider proportion of their workforce.
Called Bupa Balance, the new stand-alone proposition is available from 1 January for employers with more than 300 staff.
It does not cover day-patient and in-patient hospital treatment, cancer treatment or cash benefits but will provide essential health services to help the workforce stay on top of their health, wellbeing and long-term chronic conditions.
Bupa Balance will give employees access to a range of health services and expert advice on an outpatient basis to detect problems, diagnose symptoms, and provide support.
As well as covering diagnostic tests, consultations, treatment and therapies, individuals can also get support and expert advice for long-term conditions such as diabetes and heart problems, allowing employees to take greater control of their care.
With early detection for critical illnesses such as mental health and cancer proven to improve outcomes, the new product aims to help employees to take fast action on health concerns.
Included in the cover are health checks to help spot common cancers and identify risk factors. For women this includes a full review of medical history relating to cervical and breast health, and, if suitable, a cervical smear test to look for high risk HPV. Men can also get a specific health check, with advice on the signs and symptoms of testicular and prostate cancer, plus a blood test which can help spot early signs of prostate cancer if needed.
Employees also get access to the provider’s Bupa From Home remove solution, giving direct access to diagnose symptoms of cancer, mental health, muscle, bone and joint problems, often without the need for a referral from a GP. Advice from nurses on everyday health concerns, treatment from GPs and support for children’s mental wellbeing is also available.
Bupa UK CEO Alex Perry says: “Employee health and wellbeing is a top priority for businesses and now with the pandemic it is an even greater focus. We’re seeing many companies reviewing their wellbeing strategies and broadening their healthcare support to create a healthier and more resilient workforce across all levels.
“Bupa Balance enables businesses to provide more of their people with fast access to a range of health services, helping detect and manage everyday conditions, so people feel their best and stay that way too.
“Providing speed of access to diagnosis and support is a critical part of the new proposition. With our at-home services, an employee can go from noticing a symptom to speaking to a specialist in minutes, and this can provide them with peace of mind, or the help they need as quickly as possible.”