Americans are occasionally a little too optimistic.

For example, the 2011 Aflac WorkForces Report conducted by Harris Interactive —a recent survey of more than 2,000 benefits decision-makers and more than 4,000 U.S. workers— found that 13 percent of workers believe it's likely that they or a family member will experience a serious illness, such as heart disease or cancer, in the future.

But this is one time where a little less optimism should prevail. The truth is that unexpected medical emergencies can happen to anyone.

Even though people far underestimate the odds of experiencing a serious or chronic illness, most American workers say financial considerations would be the first thing on their minds if they or a family member became seriously ill. According to the Aflac study, 40 percent of workers say they are most concerned with the coverage their insurance provides, and 34 percent wonder how a serious illness would affect their ability to pay monthly expenses.

More than half (51 percent) of workers say they aren't prepared to pay out-of-pocket expenses not covered by major medical/health insurance related to an unexpected illness or accident.

Employee health is of utmost importance and I’m concerned about the high potential of workers’ financial instability in light of a medical emergency. My concern also extends to my fellow HR colleagues who may have to contend with an unsatisfied or under protected workforce as a result of the limited benefit options available to them.

Agents and brokers should advise benefits decision-makers that voluntary insurance policies, such as short-term disability and critical illness, help individuals pay bills that major medical insurance is not designed to cover. Voluntary benefits—a cost-effective supplement to core benefits—allow employers to offer competitive benefits packages at no direct cost to their company while providing a financial safety net to employees.

Just like accidents, serious illnesses happen and major medical doesn’t always cover all the costs. Consumers need to plan for unexpected health events in the same way they plan for life events like retirement and the cost of children’s higher education expenses.

Instant Insights /

Americans can benefit from a dose of medical reality

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