October is Health Literacy month: Why it matters for group benefit plans and our community
As a leading provider of health and wellness solutions, Saskatchewan Blue Cross is proud to celebrate the Government of Saskatchewan’s official proclamation of October 2024 as Health Literacy Month. This month recognizes a critical element of personal and community health: the ability to obtain, understand and act on basic health information to make informed health decisions.
Health Literacy: The key to healthier outcomes
Health Literacy is about more than just understanding medical jargon or interpreting a policy document. It’s about empowering individuals with the confidence and knowledge to navigate the healthcare system, advocate for themselves and access the right services at the right time. It’s the foundation that helps individuals and families take control of their health journey—whether that’s through understanding benefit plan coverage, seeking preventative care, or knowing where to turn for mental health support.
Why Health Literacy matters for group benefits
When employees and their families are health-literate, they’re not just healthier—they’re better equipped to use their benefits effectively. This means fewer delayed claims, improved health outcomes, and ultimately, more value derived from benefit plan investments.
Yet, many employees struggle to understand the full scope of what their benefits offer, leading to underutilization of critical services. That’s where health literacy comes in.
For advisors, this represents a significant opportunity to add value: by being the bridge that connects employees and their families with the resources, knowledge and understanding needed to make the most of their benefit programs. Advisors can advocate for Health Literacy initiatives that support better comprehension and engagement with benefit plans, strengthening their relationships with employers and enhancing the wellbeing of their client base.
The ripple effect of Health Literacy
A health-literate population means fewer preventable health issues, reduced healthcare costs, and a more resilient workforce. When individuals are able to access and comprehend health information, it creates a ripple effect that extends beyond the individual:
- Improved health outcomes lower the strain on our healthcare system, allowing for more effective and timely support of vulnerable communities.
- Stronger families and communities benefit from a deeper understanding of health resources, contributing to a greater sense of safety and support.
- Healthier workplaces result in more engaged, productive employees who can focus on their roles, knowing they have access to the care they need.
This October, we invite you to consider how health literacy can be elevated within the organizations and communities you work with. Together, we can drive meaningful change.
Explore our Health Literacy Toolkit
Saskatchewan Blue Cross is committed to supporting Health Literacy across our province. We’re thrilled to share our Health Literacy Toolkit, filled with resources to help employees and their families make informed decisions about their health.
By partnering with us to advocate for Health Literacy, you’re not just supporting individual health—you’re investing in a healthier, more vibrant future for all Saskatchewan residents. Let’s create a stronger, more health-literate community, together.