By Mohammed Irshad
Businesses and their employees are facing unprecedented uncertainty, as economic shifts, pandemics, food shortages, and inflation reshape the world around them. The Middle East is no exception to these challenges, with rising inflation and the increasing cost of living taking center stage. The Cigna Healthcare Survey sheds light on the concerns of individuals in the region and underscores the urgent need for employee support.
Economic Challenges and Health Concerns
The survey, conducted by Cigna Healthcare, a leading global health services company, involved nearly 9,000 individuals worldwide, including 1,100 participants from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Its objective was to uncover concerns, assess the current health status of respondents, and gain insights into the support needed to promote healthier lives during these tumultuous times.
Globally, the survey identified inflation as a major concern, with 25% of respondents in the Middle East ranking it as their primary worry. The ripple effect of rising bills and sluggish economies is causing stress levels to soar, adversely affecting both mental and physical health. In the Middle East specifically, 72% of respondents felt that these rising costs were making it challenging to maintain good health. Even more concerning, 54% expressed uncertainty about their ability to meet their own or their family’s medical needs.
Prioritizing Workplace Well-being
Dr. Dawn Soo, Cigna Healthcare’s Regional Medical Officer for the Middle East and Asia, emphasized the importance of employers providing holistic healthcare benefits, initiatives, and a supportive culture where employees can openly discuss challenges. The survey also highlighted the critical connection between employee mental and physical health and productivity, highlighting the necessity of prioritizing employees’ health security as a core ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) imperative.
To address the issue of poor employee mental health, which not only affects individuals but also organizations’ financial health, Cigna Healthcare introduced the “5% Pledge.” This initiative urges business leaders to dedicate 5% of their work time to enhancing employee mental health and well-being. Jerome Droesch, CEO of Domestic Health and Health Services, International Health, Cigna Healthcare, noted, “The survey underscores the delicate balance individuals face in accessing essential healthcare. These figures underscore the critical need to address the affordability of medical services for our workforce.”
He further explained, “Recognizing the pivotal role of employee well-being in driving organizational success, Cigna Healthcare introduced the 5% Pledge. The Pledge is a commitment to empowering employees with the tools they need to navigate today’s challenges. By prioritizing mental well-being and creating a supportive workplace culture, we are fostering healthier employees and a more resilient business.”
The Way Forward
As uncertainties continue to reshape the business landscape, the Cigna Healthcare 360 Global Well-being Survey underscores the urgency for companies to prioritize employee well-being. By allocating resources to their workforce’s health and mental well-being, businesses can ensure their resilience and success in an ever-changing world.
In conclusion, the Middle East faces unique challenges in the realm of healthcare access, particularly in light of economic uncertainties. The insights provided by the Cigna Healthcare Survey serve as a call to action for employers and businesses to prioritize the well-being of their employees, not only for the benefit of individuals but also for the resilience and prosperity of their organizations in a rapidly evolving world.
