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Sponsored by: Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
Updated: June 16, 2023

How Health Plans Can Help Maine Employers Attract Workers

According to a study commissioned by the Maine Jobs Council earlier this year, Maine is in competition with other states for jobs, workers and investments—critical ingredients for economic growth. And with racially diverse communities being the only growing demographic in a state with a significantly aging workforce, one of the most effective ways to appeal to potential employees is by offering robust benefits packages and health plan options that address diverse needs.

At Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, a Point32Health company, we recognize the value of providing health plan offerings that meet and exceed the expectations of a diverse workforce. So, we are working to do our part to help Maine employers create comprehensive, whole-person benefit programs that attract and retain high quality employees.

Here are just some of are today’s must-have health and wellness offerings:

Focusing on family- and caregiver-friendly benefits

We recognize that many working adults often have two jobs—their career and their role as a caregiver. In fact, 43.5 million Americans have served as unpaid caregivers to an adult or child in the last year. These added responsibilities often come with additional stress that can sometimes impact a person’s ability to bring their best selves to work. To help employees living with these unique family dynamics, many employers are looking to expand their family-friendly and caregiving benefits in the coming year.

To better assist their employees in the growing “Sandwich Generation,” some employers are introducing concierge care services. From backup childcare and paid parental leave to help with finding and booking medical support for aging relatives, these services can help lighten the load for caregivers.

Improving flexibility in support of total well-being

More than ever, supporting the emotional as well as physical well-being of employees matters—and strong behavioral health benefits and resources are some of the most important benefits employers can offer. To accomplish that, many employers are choosing benefits plans that ensure access to 24/7 behavioral health support, provide employees with self-service options and include virtual therapy services to meet employees where they are in their behavioral health journey.

There are also more indirect ways employers can help employees reduce stress. According to a study by Mercer, more employers are adopting flexible schedules for better work-life integration in 2023. This can mean four-day work weeks and the ability to work from home regularly (over 78% of employers), along with more outside-the-box ideas like paid time off to volunteer, which has been proven to have numerous mental health benefits.

Addressing health disparities for diverse groups

When it comes to closing the gap in access to care, organizations are making strides to better support a diverse workforce—including employees from different ethnic groups, women, individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ and those with disabilities. To do that, more employers are integrating tailored benefits into their offerings, such as specialized behavioral health care support for diverse groups, inclusive family care support and women’s reproductive health support.

The workplace and workforce continue to evolve. Inclusiveness, equity and flexibility are more important than ever. Employers and payers can rise to the challenge together by delivering benefits that support a diverse group of employees.

We are committed to being with our members on the path to better health, every step of the way. No matter where you are on your journey, turn to a trusted, local partner. No matter where you are on your journey, Harvard Pilgrim’s health plans are crafted with local decision-making that’s based on what you and your family need. 

For more health-centered thought leadership from our parent company, Point32Health, please visit our blog, Points of View.