Data is so much more than just numbers on a page or a screen. Data represents an opportunity for change or the key to the next big advancement. Data means nothing, if you don’t do anything with it – just as innovation in health care means nothing, if no one can afford it.

At the Evernorth Research Institute, we’re continually working to understand the needs of those we serve and working to turn data into tangible insights to improve outcomes and the health care experience. Our latest study, Health Care in Focus, draws from the perspectives of 3,000 consumers, 575 employers and 79 health plan leaders, paired with in-depth review by Evernorth Research Institute analysts to uncover key findings and actions that can help drive better care experiences and outcomes, now and into the future.

Results of this study revealed three key insights that offer new perspectives and a framework for employers and benefits providers to consider in order to address gaps in plan benefits. It also highlighted gaps in consumer needs and expectations and emphasized the need for better cost control across the board.

Key insights:

1. Whole-person health strategies that extend beyond clinical care and drive healthy behaviors can enable better health and cost outcomes.

What the data tells us:
Given that 80% of health is determined by factors outside of clinical care¹, prioritizing initiatives that address social drivers of health has the potential to decelerate increasing health care costs and the prevalence of chronic conditions.

54% of employers and 32% of health plan leaders expect whole person health and wellness to have the largest impact on lowering costs. ²   Within wellness initiatives more specifically, nearly half of health plan leaders and one-third of employers indicate that the high demand for GLP-1s is impacting their ability to control costs.²

What we can do:

• Proactively manage cardiodiabesity with members amid the demand for GLP-1s

• Ensure members have access to mental health support, and understand the benefits available to them

• Provide access and affordability to the medications and care needed for members dealing with complex and costly specialty conditions

 

2. Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) with compassionate care practices and personalized education can lead to better patient outcomes and experiences

What the data tells us:

96% of health plan leaders and 93% of employers believe in the accuracy of AI in health care. ² Consumers see the most utility for AI with identifying possible interactions between medications (71%), facilitating providers’ administrative tasks (68%) and clarifying health benefits (67%).²

What can we do:

• Help members find the correct balance between digital health solutions and in-person interactions

• Consider the value and implementation of AI to alleviate administrative burden

• Build confidence and encourage broader acceptance of AI with members, with safety and privacy continually in mind

 

3. New approaches that lead to higher health literacy can result in better utilization, health and cost outcomes.

What the data tells us:

80-90% of plan sponsors believe that consumers are generally knowledgeable about their coverage, but two out of three consumers say it’s difficult to know when to use which benefit or solution. ² Further, 27% of consumers believe they do not have any type of behavioral health coverage from their employer-sponsored insurance, but 89% of employers indicate that they offer behavioral health benefits and will continue to prioritize them in the future.²

What can we do:

• Meet members where they are and personalize health education to increase engagement

• Encourage members to utilize preventive care, adhere to prescribed treatments and make informed decisions about their health

• Help members receive necessary care by eliminating cost barriers

Amid escalating costs, evolving policy and regulatory pressures, rapid technological advancements and more, the health care system is very volatile – and change is too constant for any one of us to advance the health of our population and make the system better. It takes providers, patients, employers, health plan leaders and other major stakeholders aligning around shared ideas as the first step to progress.

Working together, on behalf of patients, we can thoughtfully integrate efforts from health care providers, health organizations, health plans, community leaders and policymakers to address the opportunities gleaned from this research, with innovative approaches.

I hope you’ll take the time to explore our report for a more comprehensive view of the insights, and ideas on how to best support the wellbeing of your population.

References:
1. County Health Rankings & Roadmaps. “Explore health topics.” University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. Last accessed August 9, 2024. https://www.countyhealthrankings.org/what-impacts-health/county-health-rankings-model