September 18, 2024 from HRD Canada
Canadians are known for being proactive about their health, but many are not seeking the preventative care they need from healthcare professionals, according to a recent report by Blue Cross. While most Canadians (72%) have taken steps to improve their health or fitness in the past year, they often rely on personal habits rather than professional services.
The Proactive Steps Canadians Are Taking
The Blue Cross report found that Canadians are prioritizing their health through several key activities. The two most important preventive care measures cited include:
- Eating a nutritious and balanced diet (69%)
- Exercising regularly (67%)
Beyond personal health practices, many Canadians recognize the value of additional prevention tactics, such as regular check-ups (56%), regular screenings and early detection (41%), and health education (34%).
“Canadians understand the benefits of preventative care, namely for improving their quality of life, and acknowledge that daily habits play a critical role in supporting health,” says Tim Bishop, Managing Director of Blue Cross of Canada.
The Disconnect: Why Canadians Are Avoiding Professional Preventative Care
Despite these positive health behaviors, many Canadians are not using available healthcare services to complement their healthy habits. According to Bishop, “Many Canadians are not taking advantage of the available health services to complement their healthy habits.” The survey of 2,133 adult Canadians conducted by Blue Cross from April to May 2024 revealed that nearly half (48%) do not seek care from health professionals when needed. This avoidance is often due to:
- Fear and anxiety (19%)
- Lack of time (17%)
- Lack of transportation (10%)
Interestingly, the issue is not limited to those in financial hardship. The report found that nearly half (48%) of Canadians with stable finances did not seek care, alongside 36% of Canadians who described their financial situation as comfortable.
“It is concerning that many Canadians are not seeking essential health services when they need it,” says Bishop. “These perceived barriers not only impact individual wellbeing but also underscore the urgent need for accessible solutions, like health benefits plans, that empower Canadians to access the care they need and value.”
The Importance of Health Benefits in Encouraging Preventative Care
The recent study suggests that having health benefits, either through personal health insurance or employer-provided plans, significantly impacts individuals’ health behaviors. Blue Cross reports that nearly seven in ten (69%) people with health benefits perceive themselves to be in good health, compared to just 55% of those without benefits. Additionally, those with health benefits are far more likely (77%) to have pursued health and fitness improvements in the past year.
“Health benefits play a pivotal role by promoting preventive care, managing illnesses, and offering additional protection against unforeseen medical expenses,” states Bishop. “Blue Cross is dedicated to enhancing Canadians’ wellbeing by offering a range of tailored health benefits options that meet individual needs and provide peace of mind.”
Rising Health Costs: A Challenge for Employers
The issue of preventative care is not just a concern for individuals but also for Canadian employers. According to a previous report, Canadian HR professionals view rising health and benefits costs as their greatest risk, highlighting the need for effective benefits plans to support employees’ health while managing expenses.
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