Aflac Survey Says Young Adults Skip Regular Health Screenings

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Aflac released the results of its annual Wellness Matters survey, which shows some surprising results for younger adults and Millennials.¹ According to the survey, people in these age ranges are concerned about maintaining their personal health, but they also regularly skip wellness check-ups. While a significant number of respondents said they avoid common health screenings, members of the younger generations are reporting so at much higher rates.

This is likely due to a variety of logistical barriers they face when it comes to going to the doctor. Obviously, healthcare costs are a significant reason for this. Younger adults, however, also face issues like being able to get time off from work or lacking transportation.

In a press release, Aflac’s senior vice president and chief actuary Thomas Morey said, “As our study shows, younger people are often less concerned about health care issues than older ones, and the statistics do support the idea that becoming ill is often a function of age. But what I learned is that percentages don't really mean much when it is happening to you. That is why I am a strong proponent of learning how to care for yourself, even when you are feeling strong. Going to the doctor for wellness checkups and recommended screenings is something everyone should strive to do."

He continued, “Family history matters to preventive care because history and genetics can often help inform the future of our own health. This is why Aflac is also focused on helping consumers be more aware and empowered to start good health habits early and continue to prioritize proactive health care as they age."

A major cause for concern in the survey results is the increasing number of young adults who skip health screenings, such as cancer screenings, despite having a family history of this conditions.

"Life moves quickly, and sometimes, we can lose sight of what's important for good health and wellness—but when you do stop and think about it, what is more important than your health,” Morey added. “Taking charge of your health can start when you are young, by making your own wellness appointments and encouraging those you care for to do the same. The Wellness Matters survey reinforces the value of proactive health habits. It also reminds us how much preventive care matters and to take more ownership of our health, regardless of age, gender or ethnicity."

Aflac has taken steps in the recent past to improve the healthcare experience from the insurance side. In May, the company announced that it had partnered with Nayya, a provider of digital health guidance, to improve its ability for employees to access supplemental health benefits.²

In a press release issued at the time, Aflac senior vice president of group voluntary benefits Bob Ruff said, “Aflac has made the claims experience a priority for our clients for more than 65 years. We have delivered on this promise in many ways, including our wellness campaigns that promote the usage of our plans and creating a digital-first claims experience through MyAflac mobile app and web portal. We remain focused on simplifying the claims process by adding this robust, proactive medical claims integration solution as a natural extension of our long-standing values. We are excited to partner with Nayya on this journey."

Nayya’s CEO Sina Chehrazi added, “As a technology provider, we have long admired the integrity of Aflac's approach to customer service, which is a key component of what makes them one of the leading insurance carriers in the United States and Japan. The Group Benefits industry is in a state of bifurcation: industry leaders are meaningfully investing in claims in a differentiated way. We view it as Nayya's role to help tell the stories of their commitment to everyday employees—the people who need the most help. Aflac is an example of an industry leader doubling down for leading employers during challenging times that their employees may face."

Sources

1. U.S. Adults Say Logistics and Feeling Health Among Reasons They Duck Out of Routine Wellness Visits and Screenings. Aflac. August 5, 2024. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/us-adults-say-logistics-and-feeling-healthy-among-reasons-they-duck-out-of-routine-wellness-visits-and-screenings-302213859.html
2. Aflac Group Partners with Nayya to Enhance the Claims Experience for Customers. Aflac. May 23, 2024. Accessed August 5, 2024. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/aflac-group-partners-with-nayya-to-enhance-the-claims-experience-for-customers-302154216.html