Global Care For a Global Workforce

The Rise of Global Benefits 

In an increasingly globalized world, American companies are recognizing the importance of providing international health benefits to their employees. As businesses expand across borders and employees frequently travel or relocate for work and leisure, ensuring access to comprehensive healthcare in foreign countries is vital. 

The 2019 MetLife Worldwide Benefits Survey found that 67% of American employees are interested in taking an expatriate (expat) assignment through their employer. Not to mention, In 2022, approximately 80.7 million U.S. citizens traveled abroad, a significant increase from the previous year, according to the International Trade Administration. International health benefits not only safeguard employee well-being but also enhance recruitment and retention by addressing the diverse needs of a global workforce. Moreover, offering international health coverage aligns with corporate goals of supporting employees wherever their work may take them, fostering loyalty and reducing the risks associated with overseas assignments. Wander Health is committed to supporting such goals, as they cater to the health needs of active professionals on their travels abroad. 

Employers Who Should Offer International Health Benefits

1. Multinational Corporations: Companies with offices, operations, or clients in multiple countries often require employees to travel or relocate abroad. Offering international health insurance ensures that employees are covered regardless of location.

2. Consulting Firms: Consulting firms frequently send employees to different countries for projects. Comprehensive global health benefits can protect employees and make international assignments more appealing.

3. Tech Companies: With a global workforce and remote work becoming more common, tech companies benefit from providing international health insurance to employees who may work from various countries.

4. Pharmaceutical Companies: These firms often have international operations, including research and development in different countries. Ensuring health coverage for employees in these regions is crucial.

5. Government Contractors: Contractors working on international projects, particularly in defense, engineering, and infrastructure, require robust health coverage due to the risks associated with working in foreign or remote locations.

6. Educational Institutions: Universities and schools that have global campuses or exchange programs should offer international health insurance to protect faculty, staff, and students abroad.

7. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): NGOs operating internationally, especially in high-risk areas, need to provide health coverage to employees to ensure their safety and well-being during assignments​

Examples of Companies That Offer These Benefits

Several American companies offer global employee benefits that can be redeemed outside of the United States, catering to their employees working internationally or traveling abroad. Some examples include:

1. Google: Google provides a range of global benefits, including health insurance that covers employees and their families when traveling or living abroad. In addition, employees and their accompanying families are covered for international personal travel, 365 days a year. They also offer support for expatriates through their Global Mobility program, which includes relocation assistance and ongoing support.

2. Merck & Co.: Merck provides global health insurance coverage, including expatriate benefits for employees working abroad. The company emphasizes health and wellness programs that are available globally, ensuring that employees have access to quality care no matter where they are located.

3. Boston Consulting Group (BCG): BCG provides its employees with global health benefits, including coverage for medical expenses while abroad. The company also offers a range of wellness programs and support for expatriates, ensuring employees have access to necessary resources wherever they are.

4. Johnson & Johnson: Johnson & Johnson offers a global benefits program that includes health insurance, wellness initiatives, and employee assistance programs accessible in multiple countries. Their benefits are designed to support employees working in international roles.

5. Deloitte: Deloitte offers a global benefits program that includes health insurance, life insurance, and wellness services accessible in various countries. They also support their expatriate employees with relocation assistance and local healthcare access.

These companies recognize the importance of providing global benefits to attract and retain talent, especially in a globalized business environment where employees often work in different countries or need international coverage for travel.

Why Global Benefits Matter

Global benefits are crucial for companies with a diverse, international workforce. They ensure that all employees, regardless of location, have access to quality healthcare and other essential benefits. This not only boosts employee satisfaction and retention but also strengthens the company's ability to attract top talent globally. In addition, global benefits provide a unified approach to employee care, enhancing consistency across borders and reducing the administrative complexity of managing multiple, disparate benefits programs. As businesses expand their global presence, aligning with international health standards ensures they remain appealing and viable in a diverse, interconnected workforce.