Mental health in the workplace has emerged as a critical issue, impacting both employee well-being and organizational productivity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy an estimated $1 trillion annually in lost productivity. Despite the high prevalence of mental health issues, stigma, accessibility challenges, and cost barriers often prevent individuals from seeking necessary care.

Telemedicine has become a game-changer in this context, leveraging technology to provide remote healthcare services. For mental health, telemedicine includes services such as online counseling, psychiatric consultations, and digital therapeutic interventions. By addressing common barriers to mental health care, telemedicine offers a convenient, confidential, and potentially cost-effective solution.

KidsPeace’s Comprehensive Telemedicine Mental Health Program

KidsPeace Corporation, a prominent mental health-focused organization with a diverse workforce, recognized the need to address rising mental health needs, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. With expert advice from BSI, KidsPeace integrated a mental health component into their existing telemedicine offerings through HealthiestYou. This comprehensive telehealth platform is designed to support a wide range of services, including general medicine, dermatology, nutrition, physical therapy, and mental health, all available with a $0 copay and unlimited visits throughout the year.

This mental health component allows KidsPeace associates to access therapy services seven days a week, from wherever they are, whether they are at home or on vacation. Plus, not only is the mental health service available to insured KidsPeace associates, but is also accessible to their insured dependents, including children between the ages of 13 to 17.

Outcomes and Benefits

Since the implementation of telemedicine mental health services, KidsPeace has experienced several positive outcomes:

• Increased Access: The introduction of the mental health telemedicine component with $0 copay and unlimited visits has significantly improved their associates’ access to mental health services. This enhanced accessibility means that more associates are taking advantage of the available resources, effectively dismantling traditional barriers to care.
• Higher Engagement: With 173 unique users accessing the new mental health benefit, there is clear evidence of the value and utility of digital mental health resources. This high level of engagement demonstrates the positive impact of integrating such resources into an employee benefits plan.

Improved Follow-Up: Data shows that follow-up consultation rates have increased, indicating that employees are not only starting their mental health journeys but are also maintaining ongoing care. This is crucial for effective mental health management and long-term well-being.

Positive Workplace Impacts

The increased utilization of mental health services has had several positive effects on KidsPeace such as reduced absenteeism, increased productivity and enhanced job satisfaction. When employees are supported and have benefits they need and want they are more likely to experience greater overall satisfaction with their jobs. This supportive environment also contributes to lower turnover rates, helping organizations save on the costs associated with hiring and training new staff. 

“By integrating telemedicine into their benefit offerings, KidsPeace provided their associates easy, confidential access to mental health professionals, at no cost, to ensure timely care, all of which are essential for fostering a healthier, more resilient workforce.” – Heidi Boudargham, Account Director

The successful implementation of telemedicine mental health services at KidsPeace underscores the critical role an employer has in supporting their employees mental health and overall well-being. By investing in mental health programs, whether they are offered by a telemedicine provider or are available through a medical plan or EAP program, BSI clients have fostered healthier and happier employees under their care. The KidsPeace case study highlights how telemedicine can transform mental health care, offering a scalable solution to address workplace mental health challenges.