An increasing number of health care providers are adapting to the current health crisis by adopting new ways for patients to get the care they need (in many cases, without ever stepping into a doctor's office.) As more patients and health care professionals become accustomed to digital health tools and telemedicine, there is an increasing likelihood that virtual care will remain popular in a post-COVID-19 world.

The ongoing effects of the pandemic have also led to increased awareness for behavioral health services, and it's easy to see why. Not everyone's physical health has been directly affected by the challenges of lockdowns and closings, but the significant impact that COVID-19 has had on the mental health of individuals cannot be ignored. Luckily, much like we've observed from increased telemedicine utilization, more and more people are taking advantage of teletherapy options that make it easier than ever to consult with a mental health professional from the comfort and safety of one's own home.

With the increased awareness to mental health needs that this year has brought, it's essential that leaders across all organizations take a closer look at what they are offering to their employees when it comes to mental health support. In many cases, employers need to reconsider how they are prioritizing mental health benefits. Whether this means more robust insurance coverage for mental health needs or subscriptions for employees to meditation or mindfulness services, it's crucial that employees feel supported in this area.

Prioritizing safety

Whether a return to office plan has been established yet or not, all employers need to take a closer look at how they can eventually bring employees back to work safely. These safety measures should include regular testing, screening and contact tracing. Regular testing can be easily facilitated through resources that supply bulk testing as well as additional support like daily symptom questionnaires. Once testing and tracing guidelines are in place, businesses also need to carefully consider the physical space their employees will occupy. This may include, for example, changing the office setup to meet the CDC's social distancing guidelines. Many of these items are things most business leaders have never had to think of before.

When it comes to safety, communication is also key. Both employers and employees need to be on the same page when it comes to the plan for not only returning to the office but also for staying safe outside of the workplace. Through clear and consistent communication and providing resources to educate employees, HR can ease a great deal of the anxiety that comes with re-entering the workplace. For many people, their employer has been a zone of relative stability during a time of chronic uncertainty.

In fact, a recent survey from Edelman on Trust and the coronavirus found that 63 percent of respondents would believe information about the virus from their employer, versus 58 percent that trusted government websites or 51 percent that trusted the media. Knowing that they may be the most trusted source of information on the virus for many of their employees, employers have an obligation to communicate clearly, frequently, and transparently.

Looking ahead

Among many things, 2020 dramatically changed what employees value when it comes to their individual benefits and care journeys and it's important for employers to take note. Remote or flexible work options, mental health benefits and access to digital health options are just a few items that have grown in popularity due to our current social climate. It has taken a global health care crisis for many employees to realize how important their health care benefits really are.

Employers will need to step up to the plate in the coming year and deliver health care coverage that meets employees' growing and understandable expectations. With this, strong safety precautions and clear communication, businesses will be on the right track to bring their people back to work safely in 2021.

Rob LaHayne is CEO of TouchCare.