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  • iGaming employees reveal all: employee benefits and beyond

    iGaming employees reveal all: employee benefits and beyond

    What employee benefits do iGaming employees most want from their employers? And how do they feel about the benefits they receive?

    Engage Health Group surveyed 250 employees working in the iGaming industry to find out. You can download the findings here: iGaming employees reveal all: Job satisfaction, employee benefits and beyond!

    iGaming Industry Employees Reveal All - against vegas backdrop

    Inside the report you’ll learn:

    • The benefits that employees most desire from their employers
    • How workers rate their current benefits experience
    • The personal priorities influencing engagement and retention
    • How companies can piece together a winning employee benefits package
    • How Engage Health Group helped one iGaming company save £80k on their global benefits

    The report features commentary from industry insiders, including:

    Some of the findings might be expected, others are rather surprising. Either way, readers will get clarification on what constitutes an attractive employee benefit scheme.

    You’ll also get some ideas on how to piece together a benefits strategy – including where you can get free support.

    Click here to download the free report

     

     

  • Peering into the future of healthcare… Highlights from Insurtech Insights 2025

    Peering into the future of healthcare… Highlights from Insurtech Insights 2025

    Insurtech Insights 2025 brought together the world’s leading technology innovators, all vying to prove the value of their products.

    We wanted to learn more about the health tech promising to further improve the health and wellbeing services available to businesses when they invest in Group Health Insurance and other health and wellbeing policies.

    With lanyards at the ready, we entered the Intercontinental London at The O2…

     

    The women’s health app developed by an Oscar-winner

    photo of Anya founder Chen Mao Davies at Insurtech Insights 2025

    It’s not every day you get to speak to an Academy Award winner-turned women’s health innovator.

    But Chen Mao Davies, CEO and Founder of Anya, is exactly that. She previously worked as a computer scientist helping create visual effects for major Hollywood films. Her movie career reached an unsurpassable peak when her work helped films Blade Runner 2049 and Gravity both win a Bafta and Oscar for best visual effects.

    Chen’s unlikely career switch came after experiencing breastfeeding, postnatal depression, and new parenthood challenges and discovering the level of support available was inadequate.

    “I found it very hard to access any support from midwives, doctors or health visitors because they don’t work around the clock and the NHS is very stretched,” said Chen. “I found it very hard to find any evidence-based digital support. So I decided to set up the business called Anya, which is named after my daughter.”

    Anya is a women’s health app that combines AI technology and human specialists to provide 24/7 healthcare and companionship during a women’s health journey including fertility, pregnancy, parenting, menopause, and menstrual health.

    “It is like a healthcare professional downloading her brain and uploading it to AI,” she says.

    “You can ask any questions and get practical and emotional support from the Anya AI chatbot. And when they want to talk to a specialist, they can simply talk to them within the chatbot. Our team of healthcare professionals all get push notifications when someone’s calling and one of them will come to the chatbot to talk to you.”

    Anya also offers personalised content & self-care plans, 1-2-1 video consultations, webinars, virtual drop-ins, and peer support communities.

    The app has been widely adopted by the NHS, serving 7.2m people in the UK and won the National AI Awards for Healthcare 2024.

     

    The API that unites health data from wearables and apps

    Photo of Michael Economou at Insurtech Insights 2025

    People are collecting more and more health data. One study found that more than a third of American adults use a health app or fitness tracker of some description. UK surveys draw similar conclusions.

    However, data is usually housed on different platforms and is not joining up, particularly when it comes to wearable health tech.

    Michael Economou from Terra API, told me how they are unifying health data from different sources onto a single platform.

    “Everything you can imagine is on the Terra API,” said Michael. “We’ve already integrated with hundreds of wearable devices like Apple Watch, Garmin etc, sensors like Continuous Glucose Monitoring and health apps like Strava, MyFitnessPal and so many more.”

    From this, he says, it’s possible to gain a more accurate picture of an individual’s health and wellbeing. It also provides the basis for creating more tailored gamified health and wellbeing challenges and rewards, relevant to groups or individuals.

    “This data can be used to drive better engagement through gamification and drive healthy behaviours. It’s very important for health insurance companies to have positive touch points with their customers, and this helps increase that.”

    He also sees it as part of the preventative health model.

    “Employee gamification elements helps keep people healthier, that means absences are reduced and productivity is increased. And this is being done through very simple steps, for example by promoting physical activity, better sleep and better nutrition.”

     

    Retinal scanning that sees beyond eye health

    photo of Benny Zee and colleague at Insurtech Insights 2025

    Retinal scans have long been used by ophthalmologists to diagnose and monitor eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy. But their potential use goes deeper than that.

    Benny C. Y. Zee has a PhD in Biostatistics and is Founder and CEO of Health View Bioanalytic. His company uses retinal imaging technology combined with AI and machine learning to assess the risk of a series of ailments early, including: depression, diabetes, dementia and schizophrenia.

    “We discovered that the accuracy of our technology is significantly higher than other deep learning methods when we were working on stroke risk assessment,” said Benny. “We founded the company after our US patent was granted, and started working on various other health indications.”

    The key here, he says, is early intervention:

    “If you can intervene early things are much easier to treat and manage, rather than waiting for it to get serious,” said Benny. “This is true with both physical and mental health issues.”

     

    Incentivising wellness: the gamification revolution

    Photo of YuLife’s Kate Whitelock interviewing Sammy Rubin, Yulife Founder, and MetLife’s SVP & General Manager, Dominic Grinstead.

    YuLife’s Kate Whitelock hosted a “fireside chat” between YuLife Founder & CEO, Sammy Rubin, and MetLife’s SVP & General Manager, Dominic Grinstead.

    The two companies recently joined forces on a new Group Income Protection solution combining YuLife’s gamification technology with MetLife’s traditional insurance model.

    Sammy is a powerful advocate of the power of transforming health and wellness into a game-like experience, where people get rewarded for achieving certain milestones.

    He realised the potential of gamifying health when observing the large numbers of people he would see playing games on their phones during idle moments. If we are to improve people’s health, he figured, we need to be where they are and give them games that incentivise healthy habits.

    Dominic from Metlife mentioned that 2.8m people are currently on disability benefits, which is 800,000 more than before the pandemic. Mental health and musculoskeletal disorders currently top the list of driving factors.

    Like Sammy, he discussed the importance of early intervention – a common theme amongst the health technologists we spoke to.

     

    Is this the future of health insurance?

    In recent years, the added value services offered on health insurance plans have gone from a nice to have, to a core part of many policies. Our team of consultants keep up-to-date with all the latest services included on Group Health Insurance plans, and ensure our clients are fully informed about them. Insurtech Insights 2025 proved that more innovations could be on the way, particularly in the area of preventative care.

    For Engage Health Group, the conference was an early sight of some of the technologies that could find their way onto Company Health Insurance, Income Protections plans and other employee health and protection policies in the near future.

    If you need help arranging and implementing health insurance, life insurance or other employee benefits policies, then contact our award-winning team for personalised advice, bespoke strategies and market-wide quotes. Call  01273 974419 or enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk.

     

     

  • How employee benefits can tackle workplace productivity

    How employee benefits can tackle workplace productivity

    We hear a lot about the UK’s productivity problem, but rarely about the health-related reasons behind it.

    Mental health challenges and musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are the two biggest causes of workplace absence according to the ONS. But they are also preventing employees from being fully engaged when they are present.

    A study by Simplyhealth revealed that improving support for just three things – mental health, MSK issues, and GP access – could fix up to 80% of the UK’s productivity crisis.

    The good news is that employers can make a difference by investing in the right employee benefits.

     

    What’s causing the drop in productivity?

    Let’s begin by focusing on mental health. AXA’s Mind Health Report 2025 found that 32% of adults globally are dealing with mental health issues. In the UK, mental health accounted for 27% of all sick leave in 2024, up from 23% the year before. This is also the number one reason for long-term absence for employees under 40.

    And it’s easy to see why. Financial stress, job insecurity, workload, and the pressure to stay constantly “on” have taken a toll. Lengthy NHS waiting times mean people often can’t get support until things get serious.

    Then there’s MSK health. Back pain, joint problems, and repetitive strain injuries don’t just cause physical discomfort; they’re also one of the leading causes of absence and the “presenteeism” phenomenon where people show up to work, but only do the bare minimum.

    Together, these two issues massively impact employee health and productivity across the UK.

     

    6 employee benefits that can help

    There’s not one single fix, but there are small changes employers can make to significantly improve workplace health in relations to mental wellbeing and musculoskeletal issues.

     

    1.    Group Health Insurance plans

    Many Company Health Insurance policies include:

    • Virtual GP services for same-day or next day appointments
    • Mental health support – providing access to counselling, psychology, and psychiatry services.
    • Cover for MSK treatment, like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care

    These features mean employees can get help early. Engage Health Group’s team of employee benefits consultants help businesses find appropriate health insurance policies according to the level of support they require.

     

    2.    Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)

    EAPs offer confidential support for things like stress, financial worries, or even relationship issues. They’re usually free to employees and available 24/7.

    The key is making sure people actually know about them. Too many companies have EAPs that are unused because employees are unaware they have the benefit. This can be fixed by regularly promoting EAPs through onboarding, internal comms, and manager check-ins. The more familiar employees are, the more likely they’ll use the support when they need it.

    EAPs are often included on a Group Health Insurance plan, but can also be bought as a standalone service. Again, Engage Health Group can help advise on UK and International EAPs and how to implement them for UK or global employees.

     

    3.    Group Health Cash Plans

    Group Health Cash Plans offer reimbursements for everyday healthcare costs, such as dentist visits, eye tests, and physiotherapy. They’re affordable, flexible, and especially useful for supporting MSK health before issues become serious.

    Health Cash Plans are especially good for businesses that want to offer support without the cost of full-time private medical insurance.

    Businesses can select the maximum claimable amount for each service. For example, Bupa’s Cash Plan gives staff the chance to get reimbursements of up to £100, £200 or £300 on physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic and acupuncture treatments – depending on the cover level the employer has invested in.

    Engage Health Group works with all the Group Health Cash Plan providers to ensure businesses get the best coverage options. Contact enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 222805 and our team will provide accurate pricing based on the size of your business and any specific needs you may have.

     

    4.    Digital wellbeing tools

    Apps and online platforms are becoming a standard part of the wellbeing toolkit. Popular tools include:

    For example, AXA’s Mind Health Self-Check helps employees assess their mental wellbeing anonymously, then points them to relevant resources. Meanwhile, the likes of Unmind and Headspace provide standalone mental wellness apps backed by clinical research.

    Wellbeing apps are not a replacement for clinical care, but they do help employees take small, daily steps to stay well or identify issues early on.

     

    5.   Group Income Protection

    While Income Protection schemes are best known as ‘sick pay insurance’, in fact the policy does more than provide financial support to unwell employees, it also helps them in their recovery. All the main insurance providers offer some form of early intervention service designed to help employees get better faster and, therefore, speedup their return to work.

    Many Group Income Protection schemes also come with EAPs, mental health support guidance or some form of wellbeing app.

     

    6.    Access to physical therapies

    MSK problems account for more than 7.8 million lost workdays each year. Offering fast access to physiotherapy and osteopathy is one of the most effective ways to prevent MSK problems from becoming long-term issues. When employees can see a physio within days instead of weeks or months via the NHS, minor injuries can be treated early before they worsen.

    Physical therapy is also a preventative measure for MSK. Regular sessions can help improve posture, mobility, and strength, especially if your employees spend long hours at a desk.

    The ability to live free of pain and discomfort gives employees improved energy and concentration levels. This can reduce absenteeism and contribute to better productivity.

     

    7. Healthy workspaces

    Wherever staff are working, and in whatever industry, it’s important that good posture and healthy working habits are supported.

    For office-based work, chairs need to offer ample back support, while desks and monitors need to be set at the appropriate level – and lighting needs to be sufficient. It’s all about ergonomics! In a more physical job, good posture and appropriate manual handling techniques need to be taught and practised.

    Staff should also be encouraged to take their breaks, preferably away from the desk if they are office workers. This supports both their mental and physical health.

     

    Setting up your wellbeing strategy

    Offering these benefits is a good start, but having a wellbeing strategy in place will make a bigger difference in your employees’ lives.

    Over half (53%) of organisations now have a stand-alone wellbeing strategy, according to the CiPD. 

    A wellbeing strategy should include:

    • Finding out what employees need via anonymous surveys, usage data, best practice guidance
    • Choosing benefits that support those needs, preferably with the help of an employee benefits consultancy, like Engage Health Group
    • Training managers to identify early warning signs of staff struggling with stress, whether physical or mental
    • Communicating clearly and regularly about wellbeing and the support you provide
    • Setting goals – for example, you may want to reduce stress-related absence by 10%

    It’s also worth considering employee expectations. AXA’s Mind Health Report found that 52% of employees want their company to provide mental health support, but only 47% say their employer currently does.

     

    Tackling a global issue

    Helping people stay well isn’t just a moral obligation. The McKinsey Health Institute estimates that improving employee wellbeing could generate $3.7 trillion to $11.7 trillion globally, mainly by reducing absenteeism and improving productivity.

    McKinsey breaks down potential savings from improved wellbeing:

    • $2 trillion – $9 trillion from productivity improvements
    • $400 billion – $900 billion from reduced health costs
    • $200 billion – $400 billion in increased workforce participation

    Even on a smaller scale, reducing just a few percent of absence can have a big impact on how much your team can achieve.

     

    How Engage Health Group can help

    At Engage, we help businesses of all sizes design and implement employee benefit strategies that work. This is how we can help your business:

    • We help you select the right mix of benefits
    • We help align benefits with your business’s objectives and needs
    • We help your employees to understand the benefits and actually use what’s available
    • We provide administrative and consultancy support throughout the life of your policy

    We understand that one-size-fits-all doesn’t work, so our advice is tailored to your company. If you’re ready to rethink how your benefits support productivity, we’d love to help. Contact enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 222805 to get started.

  • Navigating healthcare & health insurance on the Isle of Man

    Navigating healthcare & health insurance on the Isle of Man

    If you have staff visiting or relocating to the Isle of Man, you’ll want to know how its healthcare system works – and whether health insurance is necessary.

    Our international consultants at Engage Health Group have expertise covering more than 70 countries worldwide, including the three ‘Crown Dependencies’ dotted around the UK: Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.

    The Isle of Man may have the King and Queen’s head on its money, but like the other Crown Dependencies, it’s not part of the UK – it governs itself. Consequently, the Isle of Man has its own healthcare system separate from the NHS.

    In this guide, we walk you through what you should expect from the island’s healthcare system as a short or long-term visitor, and consider the health insurance options available to you.

    If you’re a company seeking to arrange health insurance for employees living on – or travelling to – the Isle of Man, you can contact our team for a free consultation. Our experts will happily talk you through your options and arrange quotes free of charge. Call  01273 974419 or enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk.

     

    How the healthcare system works in the Isle of Man

    The Isle of Man has its own equivalent of the NHS called Manx Care. Like the NHS, it’s funded through taxes and offers healthcare free at the point of delivery. However, it’s only available to Isle of Man residents.

    Nonetheless, if you’re a UK resident, you may be able to access free emergency treatment under the “reciprocal healthcare agreement” made between the UK and Isle of Man all the way back in 1948.

    This agreement allows UK residents to receive necessary medical treatment while visiting or working on the island. The following is important to know:

    • Eligibility: UK residents visiting the Isle of Man for up to six months are covered for emergency medical treatment.
    • Coverage: The agreement covers treatment for conditions that are diagnosed after arriving or if an existing condition worsens while on the island.
    • Limitations: The agreement only covers emergency care. Non-emergency treatments, like dental treatment and repatriation back to the UK, are not covered.

    There are a couple of things to pick out here.

    Firstly, if you stay for more than six months you can register as a resident and get free access to the island’s public health system.

    Secondly, for the purposes of emergency care, a clinician will decide whether or not the treatment can reasonably wait until you return to the UK.

    Related reading: Exploring health insurance in Jersey: a guide for employers

     

    When to buy health insurance on the Isle of Man

    There are two main circumstance where you might consider buying group private health insurance for staff on the Isle of Man:

    Short-term stays:

    If you’re an employer sending UK staff on a short-term assignment to the Isle of Man then it’s certainly worth considering purchasing health insurance. While emergency care is covered on the island, it does not cover all eventualities, and the definition of what constitutes emergency care can be very strict. The Isle of Man government recommends visitors take out an “appropriate level of health insurance” during their stay.

    Another thing worth saying is that the healthcare agreement between the UK and Isle of Man does not cover medical repatriation. This means that if you receive emergency care on the island but thereafter require ongoing treatment that’s no longer considered an emergency, then you will need to relocate back to the UK – and this travel will come at your own cost.

    Longer-term stays:

    If your staff will be living on the island for more than 6 months, they can register as a resident and therefore get full access to its free healthcare system. Locate Isle of Man is a useful resource for anyone planning to relocate to the island. Here it provides a useful overview of all the health services included for residents.

    You might still consider buying private health coverage on the island even if you’re eligible for free healthcare as a resident. Access to private health facilities can give your employees faster access to treatments and consultations. You might even get access to services you wouldn’t find within the public healthcare system.

    You should also consider it from a talent acquisition perspective. Health and wellbeing benefits are a key tool in making your company attractive to would-be applicants, which is particularly important on the Isle of Man where competition for talent is fierce.

    Do you need help exploring health insurance options for staff working in the Isle of Man? Engage Health Group will talk you through your options and provide pricing tailored to your needs. Call 01273 974419 or enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk to find out what’s possible.

     

    What Company Health Insurance can I get on the Isle of Man?

    You can purchase Group Private Medical Insurance as part of a wider global health policy or as a one country policy. Insurers operating in the Isle of Man include AXA, Bupa and Aviva – but most will only cover the Isle of Man as part of an international health plan.

    It’s best to first liaise with one of our consultants who can discuss your options and give impartial advice. Our team can find the policy that best meets your needs and budgetary constraints. We’ll also consider your wider employee benefits policies, and gather tailored quotes without any obligation to buy.

     

    What does Engage Health Group offer for the Isle of Man?

    Choosing the right Isle of Man health insurance policy for your team can be challenging. Every provider will promise they have the best solution, so it’s vital to get impartial advice from experts like those at Engage Health Group.

    Here are some of the things we will do for you:

    • Assess your needs: We’ll take the time to understand your business, your employees’ needs, and how everything links with your wider employee benefits strategy.
    • Customise solutions: We’ll deliver health insurance policies designed to meet your business’s unique needs, covering emergency care, non-emergency treatment, and repatriation where applicable.
    • Provide impartial advice: Our advice is unbiased, helping you understand the different insurers and policies available, so you can choose the best option for your business.
    • Give clear communication: We make sure you and your employees fully understand how the health insurance policies work, from coverage terms, to medical services covered and how the claims process works.
    • Provide ongoing support: Should you proceed with buying a Group Health Insurance plan for the Isle of Man, we’ll take care of the admin and continue to support you throughout the life of your policy.

     

    Ready to cover your employees in the Isle of Man?

    The healthcare system on the Isle of Man has its own unique character due to the way it runs its own free public healthcare system for long-term residents, but then has the reciprocal agreement with the UK to offer emergency care to short-term visitors.

    As a business hub, the island is highly competitive too. This makes your employee benefits offering an important tool for ensuring your business is an attractive proposition to current and prospective employees. But it’s also about fulfilling duty of care to all the employees who work for your business – and making sure their health needs are protected wherever they are working.

    To kickstart your search for the right Isle of Man Health Insurance policy, contact our award-winning team via 01273 974419 or enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk.

  • How to provide Medical Evacuation Insurance to employees

    How to provide Medical Evacuation Insurance to employees

    There’s never a good time to experience a serious illness or injury, but there are some parts of the world where it would be particularly concerning.

    While cutting edge innovations like robot-assisted surgery and AI-assisted diagnostics are starting to be seen in the UK and elsewhere around the world; some countries struggle to offer even the most basic medical support.

    Medical Evacuation Insurance is designed to help your employees working or travelling abroad get the medical care they need when local hospitals can’t provide it. They are typically purchased as part of an International Group Health Insurance plan.

    In this article, we explain how Medical Evacuation plans work and the kind of features you can expect to see included.

    Engage Health Group can help you find International Health Insurance policy for your business and advise on the medical evacuation services they include. Arrange a free consultation and no-obligation quotation by contacting enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 974419.

     

    How does Medical Evacuation Insurance work?

    Medical Evacuation Insurance comes into effect when local hospitals are ill-equipped to handle an employee’s urgent needs. The policy provides logistical and financial support to transport the affected person to a facility capable of delivering the required treatment.

    In some cases, it also covers repatriation, bringing the affected person back home for further treatment.

    Arranging emergency transport, especially across borders, would ordinarily be extremely expensive. Medical Evacuation Insurance covers these costs, making sure employees get the care they need without the financial burden falling on them or their employer.

    Under a medical evacuation plan, the insurer will:

    • Assess local healthcare options
    • Provide language translation services to ensure patients and their families understand the process
    • Organise transport via ambulance, commercial flight, or air ambulance.
    • Provide support and medical supervision during travel.
    • Bring the employee home if necessary through its repatriation benefit.

    The cost of an air ambulance can be incredibly expensive. For example, AXA has previously arranged a short evacuation from Nice to Paris for a staggering €12,000! The company has also paid €228,000 for a long-distance transfer from North America to Asia.

    Without insurance, the financial responsibility falls on either the employee or the employer, which could be unaffordable for both.

     

    Why invest in a medical evacuation policy?

    There are many reasons why you might buy Medical Evacuation Insurance for your employees:

    • Peace of mind: Nobody will want to work in a location that lacks access to reliable medical support. Having Medical Evacuation Insurance reassures staff they have the necessary support and won’t be left stranded in an emergency.
    • Avoid huge medical bills: Medical evacuations aren’t cheap. As we saw in our example with AXA, medical evacuations can be incredibly expensive. A short medical transfer across Europe costs thousands of euros and can run into hundreds of thousands on long-haul evacuations. Without insurance, these costs could be financially crippling.
    • Receive 24/7 phone support: This is for both the affected person and their family which, in turn, alleviates the stress that would otherwise fall on HR or a company director.
    • High-risk locations and remote areas: Medical evacuation insurance is very important for employees working in areas with limited medical facilities. It ensures they can access proper treatment, prevent complications, and even save lives.

    Are you seeking improved ways to protect your global employees? Contact our award-winning international team via enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 974419. We promise impartial expert advice given in your best interests. 

     

    How can businesses find the right policy?

    Many international health insurance plans include medical evacuation and repatriation coverage. Examples of providers include: AXA Global Healthcare, Bupa Global and Cigna Global.

    It’s worth liaising with an international consultancy, like Engage Health Group, to ensure you’re on the most suitable and cost-effective plan. We’ve previously collaborated with employers and insurance companies to develop a medical evacuation strategy for staff working in high-risk locations like Lebanon and rural areas like Ghana.

    We collectively scrutinise potential situations and other obstacles that may arise in a medical emergency abroad. The solution is then developed, so emergencies are acted upon immediately should they occur.

    Once the medical evacuation insurance is in place, you and your employees can be assured that emergency evacuations are covered across multiple time zones and regions. This will prepare your business and its employees for all types of medical emergency.

     

    Seeking impartial advice

    Medical Evacuation Insurance is a safety net for companies with employees who travel or work internationally. The policy ensures employees can get proper medical care, saves businesses from huge unexpected financial costs, and makes handling emergencies less stressful.

    As you can see, there are different providers offering medical evacuation services, but it’s worth seeking impartial advice from our team as we can compare plans and advise on what insurer offers the best support in specific territories.

    Arrange a free obligation-free consultation by contacting our international experts on  enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 974419.

  • New AXA Global Healthcare app unites health, wellbeing & policy support

    New AXA Global Healthcare app unites health, wellbeing & policy support

    AXA Global Healthcare are the latest insurer to launch an app that brings together policy documents, claims management, professional health support and wellbeing tools all under one roof.

    So, when they say it’s “all-in-one”, it’s no exaggeration.

    The main idea behind the app is to make it easier to access all the services and benefits available in your international health insurance policy.

    In this article, we look at the features included within the new app and how they can benefit your business and its employees.

    Are your global policies providing headaches for your HR teams? Contact our award-winning international team for complimentary policy reviews and recommendations.

    What’s in the app?

    The AXA Global Healthcare app is packed with tools that help staff take charge of their health. Here’s what it promises:

    Virtual healthcare 

    • 24/7 doctor access: Access over 450 qualified doctors anytime, anywhere, via phone or video.
    • Mental health support: Receive up to six psychologist sessions per policy year.
    • Second medical opinions: If you’re not sure about a diagnosis or treatment plan, you can get a second opinion from a network of over 50,000 medical experts worldwide.
    • Multilingual support: Health support is available in more than 20 languages.

    Wellbeing & preventative care

    • Health & fitness tracking: Set personal goals for fitness, nutrition, and mental wellbeing, and keep track of your progress.
    • Device integration: Sync the app with your smartwatch or fitness tracker to monitor real-time health data.
    • Wellbeing resources: Enjoy access to content to help you sleep better, reduce stress, and improve your overall wellbeing.

    Insurance & claims management

    • Find healthcare providers: Locate a doctor or specialist from AXA’s network of 1.9 million providers worldwide.
    • Easy claims management: Submit invoices, track claims, and authorise treatments from your phone or computer.
    • Easy access to policy details: Check your coverage, policy limits, and access digital membership cards in just a few taps.
    • Live customer support: If you need help, you can chat with a customer service agent in real-time.

    Engage Health Group can simplify the way you offer employee benefits to global teams at no extra cost to your business. Arrange your free consultation with one of our global experts by contacting enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 974419.

    How will members benefit?

    The app can be accurately described as “holistic”. It’s designed to make life easier and healthcare more accessible. Here’s how members will benefit:

    • Instant access to care: There is no need to wait for appointments, as help is available 24/7, 365 days-a-year via the app.
    • Take control of your health: With built-in tracking and resources, you can take charge of your overall health.
    • Save time and money: Virtual consultations reduce physical trips to the doctor and can help lower costs.
    • No more paperwork: The app keeps all your insurance details, claims, and medical records in one place.
    • All-in-one support: Whether you need a doctor, a therapist, or an insurance update, it’s all in the app.
    • Everything in one place: No skipping between apps, platforms or physical documents

    Is it a unique solution?

    It’s not entirely unique as Bupa and Allianz both offer something similar. For instance, Bupa’s Global MembersWorld App brings together claims submissions, policy document access and wellbeing tools. Meanwhile, Allianz Care’s MyHealth App has similarly comprehensive features.

    However, for current AXA Global Healthcare customers, it will make health and wellbeing services much easier to access. Xavier Lestrade, CEO of AXA Global Healthcare, calls the launch “a major milestone” for the company:

    “The launch of our new all-in-one app marks a major milestone in our mission to lead innovation within the international health and wellbeing space. AXA – Global Healthcare plans to be a key player in the growth of preventative health. The app is paving the first steps, demonstrating our journey into wellbeing.”

    Ease-of-use equals improved outcomes

    As insurers continue to improve the usability of their policies and extra support features; the end beneficiary will be the staff accessing them, with a knock-on effect for employers themselves.

    The continued focus on preventative tools and services is perhaps the most exciting part of this trend. Easy access to diagnostics, practical wellbeing guidance and self-help tools can help people tackle health issues before they develop into something more serious.

    The more insurers innovate in this area, the better the outcomes for people. We can certainly say that AXA Global Healthcare’s new app is a further positive step in that direction.

    Could your global health and protection policies be working more smoothly? You can take advantage of a free consultation with our award-winning global experts. We will review your current offering and see whether there is potential to streamline its administration and reduce costs. Contact enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 974419

  • Exploring health insurance in Jersey: a broker’s guide for employers

    Exploring health insurance in Jersey: a broker’s guide for employers

    Jersey is a country famed for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and from a business perspective, it’s thriving financial sector.

    But many are surprised to discover that its healthcare system doesn’t come under the jurisdiction of the NHS.

    With minimal access to free healthcare, it’s perhaps no surprise that an estimated 30% of Jersey islanders have health insurance compared to between 9 and 12% of the UK population (based on data from multiple sources, including Laing Buisson and ABI).

    In this blog post, we take a closer look at how Jersey’s healthcare system operates and how you might invest in health insurance for employees living on the island.

    Would you like to speak to one of our experts about setting up Business Health Insurance in Jersey? Get free pricing and complimentary advice by contacting 01273 974419 or enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk.


     

    How does Jersey’s public healthcare system work?

    It’s important to note that Jersey is not part of the NHS. It’s a self-governing Crown Dependency, meaning it runs its own healthcare system.

    While residents pay into the system via social security and taxes, healthcare in Jersey isn’t free at the point of use like in the UK – except for emergency care. That means GP visits, prescriptions, and routine treatments all come with out-of-pocket costs.

    Jersey General Hospital is the island’s main hospital and is open 24/7 for emergency cases. Ambulance services are also free in emergencies.

    The six-month rule for post-emergency care

    While initial emergency care is free, charges may apply if you need ongoing hospital treatment, unless you’ve been a resident for at least six months and meet certain criteria.

    New residents also have to wait six months before they can apply for a health card, which gives access to discounted GP appointments and free prescriptions. Until then, they’re liable for all medical costs, unless they have private health insurance.


     

    What is covered under Jersey’s public health system?

    The following are covered for free under Jersey’s public health system:

    • Emergency treatment (free for everyone)
    • Non-emergency hospital care for those who qualify
    • Free prescriptions (with a health card)

    The following is not covered in Jersey:

    • GP visits (must be paid for, though discounts apply with a health card)
    • Dental care (almost entirely private)
    • Specialist consultations without a referral
    • Certain medications
    • Medical evacuations for treatment unavailable in Jersey

     


     

    How to find an insurer that covers employees in Jersey

    The good news is that there are plenty of options when it comes to health insurance in Jersey. When choosing a provider, look for one with experience in the Channel Islands, as they’ll understand the unique aspects of Jersey’s healthcare system.

    UK insurers covering Jersey

    Examples of UK insurers who extend their coverage to Jersey include:

    • AXA: Offers both international and Channel Islands-specific health insurance (annual and short-term cover).
    • Bupa: Private health insurance that covers hospital stays for serious conditions in Jersey.

    International Health Insurers

    If your employees travel regularly or work across multiple countries, an international plan might be a better option for your business. These insurers offer policies that include Jersey as part of a global health plan:

    • Allianz: Provides the option to add a repatriation plan to your employees’ health insurance plan.
    • Cigna: Provides coverage for up to 99 employees
    • April International: Both its long-term and short-term health insurance plans provide coverage for outpatient treatment and consultations.

    Impartial brokers

    Specialist brokers know the ins and outs of Jersey’s healthcare market and can find the best plan for your business. Engage Health Group’s global broker network covers Jersey so we can help you get competitive pricing and tailored advice.

    A good broker or consultant will also talk you through some of the small print that significantly affects the value of a policy – the kind of things an insurer might gloss over!

    Would you like FREE advice about setting up a Business Health Insurance policy in Jersey? Our team of consultants has award-winning expertise covering UK and international policies. Contact us on 01273 974419 or enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk.

     


     

    Should you go straight to an insurer or enlist a broker?

    Contacting an insurer directly might seem simpler, but using a broker like Engage Health Group will also save you time and, moreover, ensure you’re on the best plan.

    A good broker will:

    • Compare multiple providers: Instead of being stuck with one insurer’s offer, brokers can compare policies from different providers.
    • Understand Jersey’s healthcare system: Jersey has a unique healthcare system, and a broker makes sure your employees are covered properly.
    • Handle the admin: A good broker will look after the admin, even after your policy has been set-up.
    • Coordinate with other global policies: If you have employees in multiple countries, it might be worthwhile placing them under a single international health insurance plan. You can discuss this option with a broker who has international expertise.

     


     

    Why offer health insurance to your employees in Jersey

    Providing private health insurance isn’t legally required in Jersey, but it will be highly sought-after by employees. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

    • Faster access to treatment: As well as avoiding high fees, you can also get seen more quickly.
    • Reduced absenteeism: Employees who can access healthcare quickly recover faster and take fewer sick days.
    • A competitive employee benefit: Health insurance makes recruitment more attractive, especially in a country where free health services are very limited.
    • Potential tax benefits: Depending on your policy, offering health insurance could have tax benefits for your business.

     


     

    Find the right health insurance policy at the right price

    As you can see, Jersey has a rather unique – and limited – free healthcare arrangement. As a result, you’re likely to see a higher percentage of businesses offering health insurance in Jersey than you would expect to see in the UK.

    At Engage Health Group, we ensure your team gets the care they need by finding the right policy at the right price. We also support you throughout the life of your policy by giving you a dedicated account manager and ongoing administrative support.

    If you need support in Jersey or across multiple countries, it’s worth taking advantage of a free policy analysis and no-obligation fact-finding call.

    Simply call 01273 974419 or enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk.

  • Global employee benefits fragmenting? Here’s the fix…

    Global employee benefits fragmenting? Here’s the fix…

    The problem of disjointed international benefits is laid bare in the recently published Global State of Benefits Report 2025 by Ben.

    The report reveals that many companies still use a fragmented approach, allowing local offices to handle benefits independently. This results in unnecessary duplication of work, inefficiencies, and missed opportunities to save money.

    If your company is operating in this way, then now is the time to evaluate how your global benefits are managed. Here’s how you can simplify the process and get better results.

    Need expert help in pulling together international health and protection policies? Set up a free consultation with one of our global specialists by contacting enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 974419.

     


     

    The challenge of managing global benefits

    Ben’s report highlights the challenges of managing benefits on a global scale. About 70% of companies don’t have a unified strategy, and 23% let their regional offices take full control. This disjointed setup often leads to:

    • Lack of communication between headquarters and local teams
    • Overworked HR staff managing unnecessary procedures
    • Missed opportunities to negotiate better terms or keep expenses low

    At the same time, the cost of essential benefits like health and life insurance keeps climbing. Spending on medical care increased by an incredible 115% in 2024, making it difficult for many companies to keep track of their budgets.

     


     

    How to fix your global benefits plan

    Do you find it difficult managing your benefits plan? The solutions below can help make things that little bit simpler, while giving you a clearer view of costs.

    Consolidate policies

    A smart way to reduce inefficiencies is to consolidate your benefits policies. Instead of managing separate plans in every country, consider covering employees across multiple countries under a single international policy. This type of plan provides consistent coverage globally while meeting local requirements.

    For example, if you have employee health insurance arrange country-by-country, you could pull them together under a single International Health Insurance plan.

    It’s important to note that a one-size-fits-all policy isn’t always the answer, as it can be more expensive. Our consultants can give you can impartial verdict and even pull together a complimentary quotation to see if it would be worthwhile in your case.

    Include a variety of policies

    When updating your benefits strategy, consider including key policies that support and protect employees everywhere. Examples include:

    You’ll be aware that health and wellbeing is a holistic pursuit. Therefore, it’s important that the key areas of wellbeing are covered in your benefits: physical, mental and financial wellbeing.

    Improve communication and oversight

    Technology has an important role to play here. HR systems and employee benefits platforms should be able to work seamlessly across borders. This dramatically improves your ability to track costs, review employee experiences and communicate seamlessly. If this isn’t yet the case, the sooner you’re able to fix the problem the better – otherwise the problem will be ever more convoluted as the company grows.

     


     

    How an expert broker can help

    Managing global benefits can be difficult, but working with an expert broker like Engage Health Group can make it easier. Here’s how brokers can help:

    • Industry insights: Brokers provide you with tools and access to market data that helps keep your benefits competitive.
    • Regulatory knowledge: They guide you through local laws and compliance requirements.
    • Cost savings: Brokers with strong connections can get better rates and customised solutions.
    • Simplified processes: Brokers streamline benefits, saving you time and reducing mistakes.

     


     

    Taking the next step

    The Global State of Benefits Report 2025 shows that many companies need to rethink how they provide employee benefits to global teams. With the right strategies in place, you can simplify the process, save costs, and provide better support for your employees across the globe.

    Ready to take the next step? Engage Health Group can create a benefits program that truly works for your business and your people.

    Contacting enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 974419 to arrange a no-obligation consultation.

  • Are these the most comprehensive health insurance policies for UK companies?

    Are these the most comprehensive health insurance policies for UK companies?

    Every UK health insurer offers a wide range of plans aimed at different business sizes and budgets.

    At the top end of the market you’ll discover schemes brimming with innovative features and extensive coverage options.

    In this blog post, we explore the following comprehensive health insurance policies and break down what they offer to corporate customers:

    • Aviva Optimum
    • Bupa Select/Balance
    • Freedom Corporate Health Insurance
    • Vitality Corporate Healthcare
    • WPA Absolute Health
    • International Company Health Insurance

    If you require personalised health insurance quotes for your business, then contact our award-winning consultants. As an impartial broker, we’re dedicated to finding you the most competitive price points for your business. Call 01273 974419 or email us at enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk

     

    What do premium health plans typically cover?

    Many comprehensive health plans cover similar territory. Some of the most common features include coverage for:

    Acute conditions
    Short-term illnesses or injuries that respond quickly to treatment with expectation of a full recovery

    Hospital charges and specialist fees
    Providing cover for out-patient consultations and treatment, as well as specialists’ fees and hospital accommodation.

    Treatment for musculoskeletal conditions
    Offering treatment for back, neck, muscle or joint pains and issues.

    Cancer cover
    Coverage for cancer treatment – including radiotherapy and chemotherapy – on referral from a specialist.

    Diagnostic tests
    Such as pathology tests (including blood, urine, stool and mouth swabs), X-rays, CT scans and physiological tests such as ECGs to check heart health.

    Increased choice

    Plans typically offer a choice of consultant, hospital and date of treatment, giving employees more control over how they access treatments.

     

    6 comprehensive health insurance policies for UK businesses

     

    1. Aviva Optimum

    aviva website screen grab

    Aviva is an international insurance provider that is headquartered in the UK. Its health insurance policies provide the standard out-patient cover and cancer care, and treatments for acute medical conditions.

    Optimum is their comprehensive health insurance cover, designed to cover 250+ employees with quality medical treatment at the right time and place to suit your staff’s needs.

    Optimum also includes:

    • Full cover for cancer treatment
    • Mental health pathways with end-to-end services based on clinical need, clinical expertise, and a range of treatment options
    • Dental and optical
    • Hospital upgrade options – made possible by Aviva’s extended hospital list
    • Family and fertility benefit
    • Gender identity benefit – specialist support, advice, treatment and NHS Gender Identity Clinic Assessment
    • Neurodevelopment pathway
    • Digital wellbeing support tools courtesy of MyAviva
    • Ability to tailor the policy according to your business need

    Is Aviva’s Optimum policy the right fit for your business? Contact us one of our expert consultants to find out. We’ll perform a full market review to ensure you find the best policy for your company. Call 01273 974419 or click the Get Quote button in the top right.


     

    2. Bupa Select/Balance

    bupa website screen grab

    Bupa is an international healthcare and insurance provider in the UK. Bupa offer the classic health insurance options including in-patient and day-patient treatments, as well as an option to incorporate full out-patient cover (services and treatments which do not require a hospital stay).

    Bupa has two main types of comprehensive health insurance for UK companies:

    Bupa Select:

    There are three variations in this product range: Select Key, Select Enhance and Select Complete. Key features vary, but depending on the package can include:

    • Health insurance cover for 250+ employees
    • Hospital charges and accommodation refunds for Bupa Partnership Network hospital stays
    • Extensive cancer cover for every stage of cancer treatment
    • Mental health and wellbeing cover – up to 28 days of treatment
    • Musculoskeletal services
    • Costs for consultations, treatment, diagnostic tests
    • Choice of underwriting options
    • Access to between 300 and 600 medical facilities nationwide
    • Menopause helpline

    Bupa Balance:

    • Health insurance cover for 300+ employees
    • Fast access to core services
    • Specific health checks, including breast, prostate and testicular screening
    • Fast access to diagnosis and treatments
    • Cover for chronic health conditions, enabling access to long-term support
    • Quick unlimited appointments via a digital GP service
    • 24/7 access to Anytime Healthline
    • Access to Family Mental Healthline
    • Access to Everyday Rewards
    • Menopause helpline

     

    3. Freedom Corporate Health Insurance

    Screengrab of freedom health insurance

    Freedom Health Insurance is a specialist health insurance company based in the UK. Freedom’s private health insurance covers in-patient and day-patient treatments, with various options for cancer cover.

    Freedom’s comprehensive plan includes the following features:

    • Full cover for in-patient and day-patient treatment
    • Comprehensive cancer cover
    • Mental health cover
    • NHS Cash Benefit: limits £200 per night for in-patient and £100 per night for day-patient
    • Home nursing: limits full refund for up to 13 weeks
    • Private road ambulance: limits full refund
    • Pregnancy complications cover
    • Maternity Cash Benefit: limits £150 for each child
    • MRI, CT, PET scans: limits full refund
    • Generous family health deals
    • Alternative treatments, including osteopathy, acupuncture and homeopathy
    • Dental and optical coverage

     

    4. Vitality Corporate Healthcare

    Vitality is a London-based UK health insurance company. Vitality’s policies cover in-patient and day-patient care, with treatments for acute conditions and cancer care cover. For large businesses wanting to cover 100+ employees, Vitality offer an award-winning comprehensive plan that can be tailored to your needs.

    Vitality’s enhanced cover includes:

    • Vitality GP: access to private video consultation within 48 hours, direct referrals for onward treatment and practical wellness tips
    • Mental health tools: including Vitality Healthy Mind where employees can earn points for engaging in mindfulness activities, eight sessions self-referred CBT and counselling through Talking Therapies, and access to online mental health partner, Togetherall
    • Cancer care: biological therapies covered in full no monetary or time limits, 50% discount on targeted cancer screenings and risk assessments for bowel and cervical cancers
    • Menopause support Peppy: a digital platform offering access to real-life menopause practitioners and online services dedicated to menopause support
    • Vitality Care: specialist trained team of patient-centered professionals and care consultants
    • Vitality Programmes: Providing employees with the tools to better understand their health risks and make positive adjustments to their lifestyle.

     

    5. WPA Absolute Health

    WPA corporate health insurance screen grab

    A not-for-profit health insurer, WPA is a trusted provider in the UK. They offer flexibility in their health and wellbeing plans, building schemes which can suit specific business needs.

    WPA’s most comprehensive and detailed plan – Absolute Health – includes some of the below features:

    • Health insurance for 150-1,000 employees
    • Comprehensive core benefits
    • Healthcare Pathways – faster diagnosis and treatment to avoid the need for an initial GP referral
    • Extended Benefit Options: you can decide to add remote GP services, chronic condition treatment or Cash Plan style benefits (including prescription charges, and optical and dental treatments)
    • Long-term chronic condition support

    Discover whether WPA’s Absolute Health scheme is the right fit for your business by contacting our expert consultants. Our team will provide a personalised quote and compare against other providers with no obligation to use our services. Call 01273 974419 or email enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk.


     

    6. International Company Health insurance

    If you’re seeking out the highest-end health insurance products for your staff or executive teams, then you have to consider International Company Health Insurance. These are umbrella schemes that essentially allow you to cover employees in multiple countries under a single policy but also provide more comprehensive features than you would find in a standard UK Group Health Insurance plan.

    Services you can find on an international scheme, include:

    • Accident & Emergency admissions
    • Routine maintenance for chronic conditions
    • Congenital and hereditary conditions
    • Preventative wellness screening
    • Travel vaccinations and child immunisations
    • Emergency evacuation and repatriation
    • Infertility investigations
    • Dental
    • 24/7 multi-lingual medical helpline
    • Security advice and services
    • Telemedicine / Virtual GP

    As you can see, there are features here which are not available even in some of the most premium-level domestic policies. Engage Health Group’s international team can help advise on the setup and implementation of global health policies.

     


     

    Need impartial help to find the right premium health policy?

    The most comprehensive health insurance policies are also the most expensive, so it’s incredibly important that it functions exactly as you’d hope.

    Our expert team at Engage Health Group are always happy to discuss your options. Our impartial consultants have expertise covering the UK domestic market and the wider international market for those UK companies with a global footprint.

    Rather than funnel you to a preferred partner, we’ll gather a variety of quotes from across the whole market to ensure we deliver the best available policy to you. We’ll also support you throughout the life of your policy.

    Contact us at enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or call 01273 974419 for no-obligation advice and support.