Hybrid work is here to stay. It’s flexible, adaptable, and has quickly become the new norm for many organisations with one “Reinventing Work Report” finding that one in two Australian employers offer hybrid working arrangements. But while working from home and the office offers great perks, it may also bring along health challenges. Employees are now juggling with the pressures of remote work with in-person responsibilities, often feeling the strain on their mental and physical health. The blurred lines between work and home can lead to burnout, anxiety, and even physical ailments from poor ergonomics and long hours at a desk.

For businesses, these health issues can’t be ignored. They impact productivity, engagement, and overall team morale. In the past, when everyone was in the office, it was easier for employers and HR managers to implement strategies to manage these risks. So, how can companies continue to support their employees’ health in this evolving work environment? The answer lies in rethinking health management and offering solutions that meet the needs of today’s workforce. One powerful approach is Corporate Private Health Insurance Programs, providing comprehensive support that goes beyond traditional health cover to keep employees healthy, happy, and thriving in a hybrid world.

The Hidden Health Challenges of Hybrid Work

Hybrid work offers flexibility, but it also comes with health challenges that can’t be overlooked. Physically, employees often find themselves using makeshift home office setups such as kitchen tables, couches and benches that can lead to poor posture, back pain, and other musculoskeletal issues. Additionally, without daily commutes and movement breaks, employees are sitting more than ever, increasing the risk of long-term health problems like obesity and heart disease.

Mental health is another growing concern. Hybrid work can blur the boundaries between professional and personal life, making it hard to switch off. Employees may feel isolated, disconnected from colleagues, and overwhelmed by the constant pull of work responsibilities. Without the usual office support networks, stress and burnout can quickly build up, impacting overall wellbeing.

These health issues not only affect individual employees but also have a ripple effect on the organisation. As the lines between home and work continue to blur, it’s clear that proactive health management is more important than ever.

Why Organisations Must Rethink Employee Health Management

The hybrid work model isn’t just a change in where we work, it’s a complete shift in how we work and what employees expect from their employers. Today’s workforce is looking for more than just an income, they want workplaces that genuinely care about their health and wellbeing. Ignoring the health needs of employees could have serious business consequences, including increased absenteeism, higher healthcare costs, and lower employee engagement.

Beyond the financial impact, neglecting employee health sends a clear message about company culture. Employees who feel unsupported in managing their physical and mental health are more likely to feel disconnected, dissatisfied, and ultimately leave for organisations that do prioritise their wellbeing.

This shift means companies must move beyond traditional wellness programs and actively rethink their approach to health management. Offering a comprehensive, proactive health strategy may no longer be optional, it could be essential. In a hybrid work environment, organisations need solutions that address both current health concerns and also provide preventative health support.

Corporate Private Health Insurance as a Solution for the Hybrid Era

Corporate Private Health Insurance Programs are emerging as a new tool for managing employee health in a hybrid work environment. Unlike traditional health focused strategies, these programs offer solutions that go beyond basic surface solutions.

Corporate Private Health Insurance Programs are when organisations cover all or partial expenses of their employee’s private health insurance. This provides employees with greater access to healthcare, from reducing wait times for medical procedures to offering preventive care through Extras cover. The benefits are significant for both employees and employers.

While a program like this has the ability to address a wide range of health concerns, one of the standout benefits is the access to mental health support. Starting at our Healthy Living Extras level, Navy Health members can get upwards of $400 back on psychology each financial year*. This is one way employers can manage the negative effects while continuing to take advantage of the positive benefits.

When it comes to the physical issues some hybrid employees face, all Navy Health Extras cover covers Chiropractic and Osteopathy services. This means employees can get treatment for musculoskeletal issues at little to no out-of-pocket cost*. This allows employees to address and treat musculoskeletal issues before they become a more serious problem. If employees find themselves in unfortunate circumstances and need surgery to treat their issues, Navy Health’s Core Silver+ and Premium Gold Hospital covers cover back, neck and spine.

These are but two examples of how a Corporate Private Health Insurance Programs could help when it comes to managing Hybrid work health.

For employers, the advantages are clear: healthier, and happier employees mean fewer sick days and a more positive, productive work environment. Offering comprehensive health insurance may also strengthen your position as an employer of choice, helping attract and retain top talent. In the hybrid era, Corporate Private Health Insurance Programs aren’t just a perk, it’s a strategic investment in your workforce’s overall wellbeing.

How to Implement Corporate Health Insurance in Your Organisation

When it comes to Corporate Private Health Insurance programs, there’s a common misconception that such programs come at a high cost to organisations. At Navy Health, we’re here to dispel that notion and demonstrate how Corporate Private Health Insurance Programs can be both inexpensive, accessible, and advantageous.

Navy Health offers companies the flexibility to choose from three types of corporate policies: fully funded, partially funded, and self-funded. These options serve as the foundation, that then enable organisations to tailor their coverage to meet both their financial considerations and employee wellbeing needs.

Employers can opt for comprehensive Hospital cover, Extras cover, or a combination of both, and customise the plan to include just the employee or extend cover to their family.

There are many options to design the best Corporate Private Health Insurance for your organisation. To learn more, visit our corporate page navyhealth.com.au/corporate or get in touch with our Corporate Relationship Partner here.

*Terms and Conditions apply.

1. https://static.adaptavistassets.com/downloads/Adaptavist_Digital_Etiquette-Reinventing_Work_Report.pdf
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8834350/
3. https://www.swinburne.edu.au/news/2021/10/hybrid-or-the-highway-for-Australian-workers-Swinburne-research/
4. https://www.pivotalsolutions.com/how-remote-working-has-affected-musculoskeletal-health-issues-and-what-to-do-about-it/
5. Gerding, Thomas et al. ‘An Assessment of Ergonomic Issues in the Home Offices of University Employees Sent Home Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic’. 1 Jan. 2021 : 981 – 992.
6. Bodner, Aidan et al. “The Impact of Working from Home on Mental Health: A Cross-Sectional Study of Canadian Worker’s Mental Health during the Third Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 19,18 11588. 14 Sep. 2022, doi:10.3390/ijerph191811588
7. https://www.forbes.com/sites/karadennison/2023/10/24/why-companies-should-prioritize-employee-health-and-happiness-in-2024/