Full benefit integration resulted in customers being more engaged in their health and well-being, more likely to stay in-network for their care, and being more informed about their care options. (Photo: Getty)

Rather than having health benefits stand alone, employers could not only save money but provide their employees with the potential for improved health.

That's according to the findings of Cigna's fourth annual Value of Integration study, a two-year analysis of more than 2.3 million claims from Cigna customers who get their health care coverage via their employers.

The full integration of medical, pharmacy and comprehensive behavioral benefits, the study found, resulted in average annual savings of $207 per customer and $867 per individual with an identified health improvement opportunity (about 16 percent of the population) when compared with medical and basic behavioral coverage.

Related: Why more employers and insurers are turning to integrated health care

It also resulted in annual medical cost savings of $7,372 for individuals with conditions requiring a specialty medication, such as multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis.

In addition, customers with an oncology diagnosis saw savings of more than $11,679 and oncology inpatient costs that were 24 percent lower.

Full benefit integration also resulted in customers being more engaged in their health and well-being, more likely to stay in-network for their care, and being more informed about their care options. Study results indicated that, among other positives, Cigna programs saw 17 percent higher engagement in diabetes and heart disease counseling; coaching for weight loss or quitting smoking; and personal case management for complex conditions. Mental health readmission rates were 32 percent lower, and there were 18 percent fewer out-of-network behavioral claims.

In-network high-performing providers had five percent higher utilization rates, while out-of-network claims were four percent lower. And those being treated for opioid misuse had better results, with a 15 percent higher rate of receiving misuse treatment and 30 percent reduction in subsequent overdoses when experienced one year prior.

"More than ever, employers are prioritizing whole person health and offering fully connected benefits, which are key to attracting and retaining talent," says Matt Totterdale, senior vice president, Cigna Pharmacy.

Read more: 

• Integrated medical benefits can translate to employer cost savings
• Creative plan design: Overcoming the obstacles
• How a proactive approach to health care data can improve worker well-being