Offering behavioral health services through telehealth is becoming an important benefit for employees. According to Dr. Desreen Dudley, a clinical psychologist with Teladoc® Health, the COVID-19 pandemic has drastically amplified mental health concerns and challenges for many individuals. In an April 2020 Teladoc-commissioned survey of over 2,500 U.S. and Canadian employees, nearly half of the U.S. survey respondents said their mental health has been negatively impacted by the pandemic. More than one-quarter indicated their employers are proactively responding with mental health resources and support, and eight out of ten employees think their employee benefit plans should include virtual health care.
Dr. Dudley was a speaker at the recent NTCA HR+Benefits Virtual Conference, and she discussed the impact of the pandemic on mental health needs and important ways employers can support employees dealing with mental health issues. If you would like more information about behavioral telehealth services watch “Meeting the Growing Demand for Mental Health Services Caused by the Pandemic.”
With limited access to in-person services due to provider access in remote areas and pandemic restrictions, delivery of behavioral telehealth services in rural settings is particularly significant to positive outcomes. NTCA is also doing our part to support member employees during this challenging period when many individuals are experiencing increased stress and anxiety. On July 1, 2020, NTCA and Teladoc Health partnered to expand telehealth services and bring behavioral health services to participants and their adult age dependents enrolled in NTCA’s Group Health Program (GHP) medical plan.
"Thanks to our member-driven GHP, its partnership with Teladoc Health and the robust broadband networks our members have helped build, we are proud to provide these mental health services at a time when they are most needed. At NTCA we believe in the power of technology to change lives, and I believe this service will help many people."
NTCA CEO Shirley Bloomfield.