The Current Problem

It is a well-known fact that businesses are losing vast amounts of revenue due to health issues such as absenteeism and presenteeism in the workplace. For those of you unfamiliar with the terms:

Absenteeism – The practice of regularly staying away from work.

Presenteeism – The practice of being present at one’s place of work for more hours than is required.

These two terms are highly linked to health in the workplace as a doctor’s appointment takes on average 4 hours out of the working day. This includes travel, waiting, attending the appointment and returning to work. This is one of the leading causes of absenteeism along with sick days.

Presenteeism is also strongly linked with healthcare. People who are worried about their job or just prefer to ‘power through’ instead of taking the day off are less productive and will most likely spread their illness to others in the workplace.

The Stats

This is where our solution; alldayDr can come in! Having an appointment with your doctor online will become as normal as making a payment on an app or booking a taxi through Uber.

According to the World Health Organisation, global healthcare spending reached $7.5 trillion in 2016, representing 10% of global GDP. Growing and aging populations, as well as the increase in chronic diseases are among some of the top contributors to these statistics and as a result, hospitals and physicians are under immense strain.

But hope is on the horizon and businesses are ready for change. In the U.S. and UK, half say the ability to consult with a doctor by a phone or video call instead of an in-person visit would help them manage their health care more effectively.

While 55% said they haven’t tried it yet they also stated that they would consider trying it in the future. A further 13% said they’ve already tried it and would recommend to others. This shows the significant potential for “digital” doctors’ appointments in the workplace to cut down both absenteeism and presenteeism in the office.

Being able to communicate with doctors digitally is just one piece of the solution. Digital tools such as the ability to find doctors and make appointments online (51%), completing paperwork in advance of their appointment (49%), and the ability to order prescription refills via their smartphone (48%) are also crucial in helping consumers manage their health effectively. These technologies help to reduce the administrative burden felt by doctors and deliver a more streamlined, convenient experience for patients.

Taking Control of Workplace Health

Consumers are increasingly expecting the same digital experience in all aspects of their lives. We’re able to use our mobile phones for banking activities and shop online without leaving the office, so why should healthcare be any different?

It’s important now more than ever to empower employees to manage their own health. Global research reveals 36% of consumers are using the internet to research health issues and healthcare products. In fact, 66% of 55-64s rely on online medical information and recommendations. So why not incorporate an online GP service like alldayDr into your workplace?