As the new administration expands the program, there are still questions about the long-term effects for small businesses if they participate.

Employers and employees are looking to a combination of supplemental benefits, enhanced technology and education to navigate the pandemic's impact and prepare for the future. Bob Ruff, Senior Vice President of Growth Solutions at Aflac, give a fresh look into how the benefits landscape is chaning.

Businesses have an opportunity to take the mental health of their employees seriously and solve a problem that is long overdue.

According to experts, "The financial impact of the pandemic has weakened some providers, which will undoubtedly fuel another merger-and-acquisition wave."