Dive Brief
- Extended health care benefits are a crucial component of any employee benefits package.
- They provide coverage beyond provincial health care plans, including dental, vision, mental health support, and emergency travel insurance.
- These benefits are vital for attracting and retaining top talent, play a key role in boosting employee well-being and contribute to increased productivity and engagement in the workplace.
What Exactly Are Extended Health Care Benefits?
Extended health care benefits provide coverage for services not included in provincial health insurance plans. These benefits ensure employees and their families have access to necessary healthcare services, offering financial security and peace of mind.
EHC coverage typically includes:
- Prescription Drugs: Helping employees manage chronic conditions or acute medical
- Paramedical Services: Coverage for physiotherapy, psychologist, social worker, psychotherapist chiropractic care, massage therapy, and more.
- Vision and Dental Care: Regular eye exams, prescription glasses, dental cleanings, and
- Travel Insurance: Emergency medical assistance during business trips or
These benefits go beyond treating immediate medical concerns—they play a crucial role in supporting the holistic health of employees, ensuring they remain happy and productive at work.
Why Do Extended Health Care Benefits Matter?
EHC benefits are no longer optional—they’re a necessity in today’s competitive job market. Companies that prioritize extended health insurance create a win-win situation: employees feel valued and supported, and employers benefit from higher engagement and retention.
1. Attracting and Retaining Top Talent
With CTV News reporting on rising health care costs in Canada, including many Canadians being forced to skip doses or split pills due to high prescription prices, extended health care benefits are becoming a key factor in attracting and retaining talent. As health costs continue to rise, offering comprehensive benefits is not just a nice-to-have—it’s essential for employers looking to stay competitive and meet the growing demands of their workforce.
2. Boosting Employee Well-Being
Health-related financial stress can weigh heavily on employees, affecting their focus and productivity. EHC coverage alleviates this burden, enabling employees to access necessary healthcare services without worrying about costs. In turn, this contributes to a healthier, more engaged workforce.
3. Holistic Health Support
Modern workplaces recognize that health is more than physical wellness. Extended health care benefits now often include mental health counseling, stress management programs, and financial wellness support. These additions demonstrate an organization’s commitment to addressing the full spectrum of employee well-being.
Addressing Common Misconceptions About EHC Benefits
Despite the growing recognition of health benefits, several myths still persist. Let’s clear up these misconceptions and explain why offering comprehensive coverage is essential for businesses of all sizes.
Misconception 1: They’re Too Expensive
Reality: While the initial cost of providing health coverage may seem high, the long-term savings are significant. Healthier employees take fewer sick days, show up more often, and are less likely to leave the company, which helps reduce turnover and boost morale. It’s an investment that delivers measurable returns in employee well-being and business productivity.
Misconception 2: Coverage Is the Same for Everyone
Reality: Benefits should be personalized to meet the diverse needs of your workforce. For instance, younger employees might value mental health support, while older staff might prioritize dental or vision care. By tailoring benefits to specific demographics, businesses can improve employee satisfaction and engagement.
Misconception 3: Only Large Companies Can Offer Health Coverage
Reality: Small and medium-sized businesses can also offer competitive health packages. With customized plans, companies of all sizes can provide affordable options that help attract and retain top talent. It’s all about designing a benefits plan that works for your budget and workforce.
Clearing up these myths shows that health benefits are not only for big companies or expensive to offer—they are a critical part of a business strategy that boosts employee retention, productivity, and overall satisfaction.
How Benchmark Can Help
At Benchmark, we understand that no two organizations are the same. That’s why we take a personalized approach to designing extended health care benefits that align with your company’s goals, culture and your team’s needs.
Here’s how we make a difference:
- Custom Solutions: Our experts analyze your workforce demographics, population health, industry standards, and budget to create a benefits plan tailored to your needs.
- Comprehensive Coverage: From prescription drugs to mental health programs, we ensure that your plan addresses the diverse needs of your team.
- Expert Support: With over 135 years of combined experience and 200+ national and international clients, we bring unparalleled expertise to your benefits strategy.
- Ongoing Optimization: Employee needs evolve, and so should your benefits We regularly monitor and refine your EHC strategy to ensure it remains impactful.
Final Thoughts
Extended health care benefits are a powerful investment in your workforce’s well-being. By supporting employees’ physical, mental, and financial health, they foster an environment where both individuals and businesses can thrive.
Whether you’re introducing benefits for the first time or refining an existing plan, Benchmark is here to guide you. Let’s work together to design a tailored program that supports your team’s needs and drives success. Contact us today to get started.