Towergate Employee Benefits’ research among UK companies that have overseas employees reveals that only 36% offer different health care and wellness support based on the location of their employees. The majority of companies, 57%, provide the same support to overseas employees as they do for those in the UK.
Sarah Dennis is the head of international benefits at Towergate Employee Benefits. She says: Our research shows that the majority of companies provide the same level support for employees working in the UK or abroad. This is not a good approach, as it doesn’t take into consideration the differences in risks and needs between countries. Health facilities might be less developed or more difficult to reach than they are in the UK.
UK employees working abroad may have different requirements than those employed in the UK
Employers should consider the needs of the country where their employees will be deployed. Employers must consider the health risks of each region. This includes infectious diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis. They also need to look at environmental factors, pollution, the quality of the medical facilities, and the remoteness. It is important to consider the risks of civil unrest or political instability, as well as increased mental health threats. The support must also encompass financial, mental and even social wellbeing.
Sarah Dennis says: “Just by working abroad, a person will have different needs for health and well-being than a colleague in the UK.” Working away from home is stressful, can be isolating and present different challenges, both mentally and physically. Support must be tailored to these needs.
UK Residents Working Abroad
Even if the host country offers free universal healthcare, UK-citizen employees working abroad will still need full support for their health and well-being. In Australia, for example, the national health insurance program provides citizens with access to hospital and health services at a low or no-cost. Even though the Reciprocal Health Agreement allows UK citizens to access urgent hospital care for free, many other medical services, such as a GP visit, a prescription or dental treatment are still charged.
Employers must ensure that employees who work abroad receive full health and wellness support, regardless of how developed the country in which they reside is, or what may appear to be available at first glance. It would be easy to think that Australia’s Reciprocal Health Agreement covers all health care, but this is not the case. If a UK citizen needs an ambulance, they could face hefty bills and expect their employer to reimburse them.
Local Nationals still need Healthcare
It is easy for employers to assume that locals working in their country do not need any support with regards to health and well-being. It may not be true.
Not all countries offer universal healthcare or free care. The USA is by far the largest country that does not have a free health care system. It uses a system that consists of health insurance packages. South Africa, Pakistan and Egypt are other notable countries that do not offer free healthcare. China, which has around 95% coverage, is on its way to universal healthcare. However, some costs are involved.
Even if an employer hires local nationals, it is still necessary to offer employee benefits. Health and wellbeing support is more than just medical coverage. Locals may need assistance with mental health issues, nutrition, fitness, lifestyle and lifestyle advice, and much more. Employers must ensure that these supports are in place to ensure the well-being of their employees and the success of the business.
Sarah Dennis concludes that It is the employer’s responsibility to make sure all employees receive proper care while working, regardless of where they are. A comprehensive health and well-being programme tailored to each country’s specific conditions will ensure employees are happy and healthy, while also ensuring that the company is compliant and productive.
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