Cigna Healthcare recently released its findings from its 2024 International Health Study – and the results are telling.
The study shows that for expats working abroad, or those who Cigna refers to as globally mobile individuals, vitality scores dropped slightly from 2023 to 2024. Two years ago, vitality scores were at 71.7. Last year, they fell to 69.2.
Cigna chalked up this slight decline to the rising cost of living for expats around the world, the difficulty in finding affordable healthcare, and the stress of trying to thrive in an uncertain global economy.
And for Cigna’s International Health President Jason Sadler, this could affect which companies expats choose to work for.
“The globally mobile workforce drives innovation and economic growth worldwide. But if employers do not address the new financial and healthcare challenges these professionals face, their ability to attract and retain top talent will suffer.” Sadler said.
As it stands, many expats abroad pay for their own health insurance. This leaves a lot of expats with medical plans that lack sufficient coverage. In fact, the study shows that just 58 percent of expats working abroad feel they have enough medical coverage.
Moreover, an additional 20 percent of expats surveyed said they need therapy but don’t have the means to get help. The same study reveals that 27 percent of expats working abroad have put off getting medical treatment simply because they can’t afford it.
And when it comes to finances, many expats don’t feel secure as well. Only a third of those surveyed said they have “excellent” or “very good” financial situations. Considering these numbers, it’s easy to see why vitality scores have dipped.
But all hope isn’t lost. Sadler believes there is a way to boost expat morale in the workplace, and that’s by corporations taking a more holistic approach to attracting and keeping its talent.
“Companies must take action to ensure their internationally mobile workforce thrives – both personally and professionally”, Sadler said, “by addressing the financial, healthcare, and well-being challenges they face.”
About Cigna Healthcare
Cigna Healthcare is a health benefits provider that advocates for better health through every stage of life. We guide our customers through the health care system, empowering them with the information and insight they need to make the best choices for improving their health and vitality. Products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group (NYSE:CI), including Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company, Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, Evernorth Health companies or their affiliates and Express Scripts companies or their affiliates. Such products and services include an integrated suite of health services, such as medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, vision, supplemental benefits, and others.
Learn more at www.cignahealthcare.com
