More than four million people are now covered by health insurance through their employer, according to data from the Association of British Insurers (ABI).
The number of employees benefitting from health insurance increased by 8% from four million in 2021 to 4.4 million in 2022. Meanwhile, workplace policies also saw a 15% increase in claims, with one million made in 2022 compared to 873,000 in 2021.
The total number of people covered by both individual and workplace health insurance policies has increased by 7% to 5.8 million in 2022, the highest number since 2008. Payouts for health insurance claims also hit a high at almost £3 billion.
The research also revealed that 86% of staff who were absent from work due to illness or injury were successfully supported to stay in employment using services provided by their insurer. More than 42% were supported back to work in less than four weeks and 81% in under six months.
According to the ABI, it will call on the government ahead of this month's Autumn Statement to cut the rate of insurance premium tax on health insurance to allow more employers and individuals to access it.
Rebecca Deegan, head of health and protection policy at the ABI, said: “The value health and protection insurance can provide in keeping people fit, well and in work can’t be overstated. By overlooking its potential to boost the health of the nation, the government is missing an opportunity to better support workers and keep people healthy and in employment.
“These record figures demonstrate that insurance needs to be a vital part of this conversation. The value it can add with speedier access to services and treatment, which often prevent health conditions from worsening, must not be overlooked. The access to virtual GPs, more flexible appointment times, and cover for operations can help people get back on their feet and back to their work, family lives and other commitments more quickly.”
