Employers Urged to Improve Tracking of Mental Health Benefits Efficacy

What's Happening?

A recent survey conducted by the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) highlights a significant gap in how employers track the effectiveness of mental health benefits offered to employees. While 97% of employers provide mental health coverage and 67% offer substance abuse treatment, only 22% actively monitor the utilization of these benefits. The study reveals opportunities for employers to enhance tracking of network adequacy, with only 47% collecting data on provider-to-enrollee ratios and 44% monitoring employees' distance to providers. Additionally, only 31% gather data on out-of-network care use, which poses a barrier to accessing behavioral health services. Anna Bobb, executive director of the Path Forward Coalition, emphasizes the need for employers to measure the impact of benefits to ensure timely and effective care. The survey also identifies gaps in coverage for ongoing chronic needs and culturally competent care, with only 33% and 26% of employers offering these services, respectively.

Why It's Important?

The findings underscore the importance of effective mental health benefits in the workplace, as they directly impact employee productivity and well-being. Employers have a business incentive to ensure that mental health services are accessible and effective, as healthy employees contribute to a more productive workforce. The lack of comprehensive tracking and communication about benefits can hinder employees from utilizing necessary services, potentially leading to delayed treatment and poorer health outcomes. By improving tracking mechanisms and communication strategies, employers can better support their workforce's mental health needs, ultimately benefiting both employees and the organization.

What's Next?

Employers are encouraged to enhance their tracking systems to better understand the efficacy of mental health benefits. This includes collecting more detailed data on provider networks and out-of-network care usage. Additionally, firms may consider training managers to recognize signs of mental health issues among employees and improve communication about available benefits. These steps could lead to more timely interventions and improved health outcomes for employees. As awareness grows, employers may also expand coverage to include more comprehensive services, such as culturally competent care and support for chronic mental health conditions.

Beyond the Headlines

The survey results highlight broader implications for workplace mental health policies, including the ethical responsibility of employers to provide adequate support for employees' mental health. The gaps in coverage for culturally competent care suggest a need for more inclusive policies that address diverse employee needs. Long-term, improved tracking and communication could lead to a shift in workplace culture, where mental health is prioritized alongside physical health, fostering a more supportive and inclusive environment.