Unum UK has seen demand for remote physiotherapy appointments via its Help@hand services almost double year-on-year.
The specialist employee benefits provider facilitated almost 8,000 remote physio appointments in the first six months of 2024, compared to 4,071 attended in the same period of 2023.
Additionally, it said 98% of appointments were offered to users within two days of them placing a request, with back, neck or shoulder issues the most common reason for requesting an appointment.
Saumya Barber, head of proposition development at Unum UK, said: “Research by Ascenti has shown that early intervention is critical when it comes to musculoskeletal (MSK) concerns and that remote physio sessions are an effective and appropriate method of care for most non-complex MSK conditions, such as sprains and strains, tendonitis, or lower back pain.
“We’re now seeing employees make the link between these two concepts. Our data shows more and more people opting for digital health and wellbeing services, rather than waiting for in-person appointments.
“This allows quicker, easier access to physiotherapy, helping to address MSK issues early and reduce the need for prolonged work absences.“
Barber (pictured) added that so far in 2024, 13% of all physio appointments held via Help@hand were for over-55s – more than doubling since 2020, when over-55s accounted for just 6% of remote physio appointments.
“These days, employers are managing multigenerational workforces,” Barber continued.
“As we all become increasingly confident with technology, digital health and wellbeing services can empower employees of every age to take charge of their health.”