Employee Health Benefits 101: Perks That Actually Matter (and Why Your Company Needs Them)

“Clients do not come first. Employees come first. If you take care of your employees, they will take care of the clients.” - Richard Branson

In today's world, a good salary isn't enough. Employees want perks that actually matter—like solid health insurance, access to doctors without jumping through a million hoops, and even discounts on gym memberships (because, let's face it, motivation isn't free).

If you're an employer looking to level up your benefits game, or an employee curious about what you should be getting, you're in the right place. Let's break down the must-have health benefits, why they matter, and how they can turn your company into a workplace that people don't just work for—but want to work for.

Core Insurance: The Non-Negotiables

This is the bread and butter of any benefits package. Without it, you're basically saying, "Good luck out there!"—and no one wants that.

IPD (In-Patient Department) Cover

Hospital bills are no joke. IPD coverage ensures employees (and their families) don't have to worry about medical expenses if they get hospitalized. It covers treatments, surgeries, and all those unexpected medical surprises that life throws our way.

Starting Cost: ₹5,000 per employee/year

Group Personal Accident Cover

Accidents happen. This coverage provides financial protection in case of unexpected mishaps, disabilities, or worse. It's basically a safety net for life's "oops" moments.

Starting Cost: ₹2,000 per employee/year

Group Term Life Insurance

Life is unpredictable, and while we don't like thinking about it, having life insurance means employees' families are taken care of in case of an unforeseen tragedy. It's a small investment that makes a huge difference.

Starting Cost: ₹1,000 per employee/year

Trying to start Group Health coverage on a budget? Download our first time buyers guide. It simplifies the process for you.

Primary Care: Because Healthcare Shouldn't Be a Hassle

Most people don't visit a hospital unless absolutely necessary—but they do visit doctors, get lab tests, and pick up meds. That's where Primary Care benefits come in.

OPD Wallet – The Health Expense Piggy Bank

Doctor visits, diagnostics, and prescriptions can add up quickly. An OPD Wallet covers these costs, making it easier for employees to manage everyday health needs without dipping into their savings.

Starting Cost: ₹3,000 per employee/year

Fun Fact: OPD benefits are a hot commodity—50% of employees are already using them! If your company doesn't offer this yet, it's time to reconsider.

Preventive Care: Stay Healthy, Stay Happy

Health benefits aren't just about treating sickness—they should also help employees stay healthy in the first place. That's where preventive care comes in.

Comprehensive Health Checkups – Because Prevention is Better Than Cure

Regular health checkups help catch issues early, saving employees from big health (and financial) problems later. Knowing your cholesterol levels makes you feel like an adult, right?

Starting Cost: ₹2,000 per employee/year

Step Tracker Programs: Get Rewarded for Moving!

A little friendly competition never hurt anyone—especially when it involves walking more and winning prizes. Many companies offer step tracker programs that reward employees for hitting their fitness goals.

Complimentary with wellness platforms like Pazcare

Gym Membership Discounts – Because Fitness Ain't Cheap

Let's be real—most of us need extra motivation to hit the gym. A discount on a gym membership might just be the push employees need to stop paying for a gym finally they never go to (or actually start using!).

Cost: Varies, but corporate discounts make it way more affordable.

Health Benefits Trends: What's Hot Right Now?

Infertility Coverage is Gaining Momentum

As conversations around reproductive health become more open, more companies are stepping up.

1 in 3 women are considering freezing their eggs, and a whopping 88% want their company to cover the Cost.

Right now, 41% of Indian companies include infertility treatments in their health insurance.

OPD Plans Are a Must-Have

With 50% of employees already using OPD benefits, it's clear that everyday healthcare support is just as important as hospitalization coverage.

Why Offering Great Health Benefits is a Win-Win

Let's break it down:

• Employees stay healthier, happier, and more productive – because they feel supported.
• Companies see less absenteeism – because employees take care of their health before it becomes a bigger problem.
• Better talent retention – because employees don't just work for a paycheck—they work for security and well-being.
• Stronger company culture – because a business prioritizes employee wellness, it automatically becomes a more attractive workplace.

Final Thoughts

If you're an employer, offering great health benefits isn't just a nice-to-have—it's a must-have if you want to attract and retain top talent.

And if you're an employee? Ensure your company is offering the right perks—because you deserve benefits that work for you.