Forty-four percent of employees purchased additional health coverage as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, according to a survey from Aflac.
The survey, part of the company's annual WorkForces Report, found that those who tested positive for COVID-19 were far more likely to expand their health benefits, according to an Oct. 18 news release.
Of supplemental benefits, those with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis purchased life (38 percent), hospital (29 percent) and critical illness (26 percent) benefits most.
"COVID-19 is still very top of mind for employees, and they are seeking ways to help offset the financial burdens they have either experienced or have feared over the past 17 months," said Matthew Owenby, chief human resources officer at Aflac. "Financial vulnerability will continue to be a concern during this year's open enrollment season as rising health care expenses continue to affect Americans during these uncertain times."