There has been a surge in demand for digital physiotherapy bookings since the start of lockdown according to employee benefits provider Unum.
Unum says over 1,000 bookings have been made for this service via its wellbeing app, Help@hand.
Almost half of the bookings it has taken since July have been for back, neck or shoulder problems, indicating problems may be occurring as a result of poor posture due to an inadequate home working environment.
Help@hand provides bespoke exercises to remedy problems, usually via video consultation. It is also able to send out equipment such as heat packs, foam rollers and stretch bands at no additional cost after their consultation – supporting the individual’s treatment plan and home exercise programme.
Unum UK CEO Peter O’Donnell says: “Our remote healthcare service has proven invaluable for many over the past few months, facilitating access to physiotherapists and GPs quickly without the need for face to face appointments and avoiding additional pressure on NHS resources.
“The challenges of the pandemic have clearly had a physical, psychological or emotional impact on many workers and these pressures are likely to continue over the coming months. Employers can support wellbeing and productivity by ensuring their staff are fully aware of virtual physiotherapy and other remote health services they have available to them.”
Unum’s Help@hand service also provides access to mental health support, medical second opinions and unlimited access to remote GPs.
The employee benefits provider integrated their Employee Assistance Programme within the app earlier this year, to provide a comprehensive digital health and wellbeing offering for employees in the workplace.
The service is available at no additional cost for employees insured through a Unum Group Income Protection policy and has exponentially grown in 2020 – with over 6,000 appointments booked so far.