GreenShield’s Health Outcomes Report highlighted how integrating digital care with insurance coverage produces measurable improvements in health outcomes while potentially reducing costs for insurers and plan sponsors.
Nearly half of Canadians live with at least one major chronic condition such as heart disease or diabetes, yet up to 80% of these conditions could be prevented through early intervention and lifestyle management. The company said its GreenShield+ platform connects users with proactive care and coverage before health concerns escalate, demonstrating how insurance can play a role in prevention and long-term risk reduction.
In Q3, over 14,000 users completed virtual telemedicine consultations, helping reduce demand for emergency and in-person clinic visits. Appointments averaged 18 minutes, and 93% of participants reported satisfaction with the service. Digital mental health programs showed measurable results, with 63% of participants reducing anxiety symptoms and 44% reducing depression symptoms before escalation.
Medication adherence, a key factor in managing chronic conditions and controlling long-term claims costs, also improved. Users achieved 95% adherence for asthma, 91% for pain treatment, and 88% for diabetes, exceeding typical industry averages. Continuity of care was enhanced through a therapist matching system, keeping 94% of members with the same provider in the first year and generating 35% greater improvement in well-being compared to those who switched providers.
These outcomes have clear implications for insurers. Early intervention and consistent management of chronic conditions can prevent higher-cost hospitalizations and treatments, helping insurers manage claims and maintain sustainable plan designs.
For employers and plan sponsors, supporting integrated digital care may reduce overall benefit costs while improving member satisfaction.
The report underscored that insurance-backed access to preventative and digital care is not only improving individual health outcomes but also supporting the sustainability of the Canadian health system.
