While most recognize the benefits of preventative health strategies,some aren’t seeking the help they need.
Our survey of over 2,000 Canadians from coast-to-coast found that many are not taking advantage of the available health services to complement their healthy habits.
Have tried to improve their health or fitness recently
0
%
Don’t seek help due to perceived barriers
2 in 3 agree preventative health strategies improve quality of life
69% eat a nutritious and balanced diet
67% exercise regularly
56% receive regular check-ups
34% get educated about their health
29% search online for health information
Canadians with a benefits plan, at all income levels, report better health
Feeling better
Those with health benefits (69%) are more likely to report being in good health than those with no plan (55%)
Improving wellness
Plan holders (77%) have tried to improve their health or fitness in the past 12 months, versus those without (60%)
Seeking care
Those with health benefits are twice as likely to visit a chiropractor, naturopath or massage therapist
Nearly half are not seeking needed help
Fear and anxiety (19%),lack of time (17%) and lack of transportation (10%) are key reasons
Fear and anxiety are more common among those with precarious finances (35%) and Gen Z (31%)
Women (69%) are more likely than men (57%) to put off care, even when needed
Those with stable finances (48%) and comfortable finances (36%) can likely afford care and are still not seeking it
Digital approaches are valued, especially by younger Canadians
Virtual care benefits
79% of all Canadians cite benefits to virtual care
This includes not having to travel to the office (52%) and makes booking appointments easier (36%) and faster (36%), underscoring the importance of virtual care to enable access
Younger generations are most likely to cite benefits of virtual care, with Millennials (88%) and Gen Z (87%) citing key benefits
However, most (84%) of Canadians perceive limitations to virtual care, with over half (52%) citing the limitations of diagnosis and treatment options
Trusted info sources
Younger Canadians are particularly committed to improving their health: Gen Z (84%) and Millennials (79%) have tried to improve their health or fitness in the last 12 months, compared to only 64% of Gen X and Boomers
Canadians recognize doctors to be key sources of health information (63%)
Family doctors are the primary source of health information for Boomers (79%) and Gen X (66%), while Gen Z (60%) and Millennials (56%) defer to digital sources (social media, fitness apps, internet) first
Hybrid work and health
Almost all Canadians see benefits to working from home (96%) for both their mental and physical health
Canadians cite better work-life balance (58%), reducing commuting stress (55%), and the ability to make healthier lifestyle choices (41%) as top benefits
35% also shared that working from home has improved their mental health
For Canadians living with an existing health condition, working from home has allowed them increased flexibility (27%)
Canadians rely on a team of professionals to stay healthy
Consult a pharmacist: 90%
Visit a doctor: 89%
See a dentist: 88%
Use a walk-in clinic: 70%
Leverage virtual care: 31%
We’re here to help
Health benefits play a pivotal role by promoting preventive care, managing illnesses, and offering additional protection against unforeseen medical expenses.
Blue Cross is proud partner in Canadians’ health journeys and offers a range of tailored health benefits options that meet individual needs and provide peace of mind.
