Why supplementary health insurance has to be worth it today—and why it is.
Problem Statement
Many HR managers still promote company health insurance (bKV) internally as a “nice perk”—a benefit the company treats itself to when there’s enough budget. But that’s a misconception. In an era of rising sick leave rates and demographic challenges, bKV is increasingly becoming a strategic tool—measurable, verifiable, and effective.
Research literature
According to the latest DAK Health Report 2024, absenteeism rose by 7.5% across all sectors. Particularly striking: the increase in mental health issues and absences due to long COVID. Studies from the bKV Report show that companies offering bKV benefits have, on average, 23% lower rates of illness-related absenteeism —especially where preventive services are actively utilized.
ROI by the Numbers
Supplementary health insurance costs an average of between 20 and 50 euros per employee per month. Does that sound like a lot? Not when you compare it to the cost of a single sick day: according to IAB calculations, an average of 179 euros. For a company with 100 employees, saving just one sick day per year makes all the difference. Many companies have been shown to save several thousand euros per year—while maintaining a stable workforce and higher employee satisfaction.
Comparative Perspective
A benchmark comparison between companies with and without supplementary health insurance reveals significant differences: not only in terms of absenteeism, but also in employee turnover and employer attractiveness. Young professionals and families, in particular, view health benefits as a sign of a modern corporate culture—and are more likely to stay with the company for longer.
A practical calculation example
A medium-sized company in Lower Saxony with 75 employees introduced a modular supplemental health insurance plan in early 2023—focusing on dental care, vision care, and mental health. The results after 12 months: a 17% decrease in days lost to illness, a significant reduction in sick pay—and a 2.1-point increase in the employer’s recommendation rating (Kununu).
Goodwill becomes business logic
Supplementary health insurance needs to move away from the HR “comfort zone” and into the realm of financial management. Only by keeping a close eye on key metrics, health reports, and usage analytics can organizations fully realize the potential of this initiative. The good news is that the tools and providers needed for this have long been available—flexible, digital, and scalable.
Solution by FAKTOR MENSCH
FAKTOR MENSCH in implementing modern supplemental health insurance solutions—offering over 300 health benefits with measurable results. Through a personalized ROI assessment, we’ll show you how employee engagement truly pays off—including a free online calculator and best-practice guidance.