Telemedicine for Employee Benefits: What You Need to Know

In a world that values flexibility and instant access, telemedicine is no longer a “nice-to-have”—it’s a must. Employers looking to stay competitive and control healthcare costs are turning to virtual care as a practical, affordable, and highly appreciated benefit.

Here’s why telemedicine is becoming a staple in modern benefits packages—and how it helps both employees and employers.

🚀 What Is Telemedicine?

Telemedicine (or telehealth) gives employees access to healthcare providers through phone or video calls. From diagnosing a sinus infection to managing a chronic condition, many services that once required an in-person visit can now be handled remotely, often 24/7.

Depending on the health plan, telemedicine may be offered through:

• Insurance carriers (as part of the plan)

• Standalone telehealth vendors

• Employer-sponsored wellness programs

💰 How Telemedicine Saves Money

For both employees and employers, virtual visits are significantly less expensive than urgent care or ER visits. Consider this:

• A typical telemedicine visit costs $40–$75

• A visit to urgent care averages $150+

• An ER visit can exceed $1,000, even for non-emergency issues

By encouraging telemedicine use for non-emergency care, employers reduce claims costs, and employees save time and money.

⏱️ Convenience That Supports Work-Life Balance

Telemedicine makes it easier for employees to prioritize their health without taking hours off work or finding childcare. Employees can:

• Book virtual appointments on evenings and weekends

• Avoid waiting rooms and travel time

• Get prescriptions sent directly to the pharmacy

This flexibility supports better health outcomes and productivity.

❤️ Boosting Access and Equity

For employees in rural areas or those with limited access to transportation, telemedicine bridges gaps in care. It also supports mental health by offering:

• Virtual therapy

• Psychiatry consults

• Crisis lines

When integrated into the group health plan, these services can remove stigma and barriers that often prevent people from seeking help.

✅ How to Make the Most of It

To fully leverage telemedicine:

• Promote it year-round, not just during open enrollment.

• Educate employees on how to access it and when to use it.

• Ensure it’s included in your current health plan or available as an add-on.

At Swift Kennedy, we help employers build benefit strategies that go beyond basic coverage. Telemedicine is just one way to increase value without increasing cost.

📞 Let’s Talk Telemedicine

Want to see if your current health plan includes telehealth, or if there’s a smarter option out there? Contact Swift Kennedy to review your benefits strategy with a trusted advisor.