Most employers expect return to normal by second or third quarter

More than nine in 10 employers have expanded telehealth for both physical and behavioral health care or are considering doing so. (Image: Shutterstock)

After a turbulent year triggered by the pandemic, employers are looking forward to a return to smoother sailing later this year.

“Employers are working to get back to normal operations, which most expect by the third quarter of 2021,” said Michael Thompson, president and CEO of the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions. “While the vaccination efforts are currently job one, plans are shaping up now for employers to improve health, equity and health care value over the next few years.”