Ask Alexa: Why should employers rethink their healthcare benefits?

“Alexa, what’s the best treatment for the flu?”

clock • 4 min read

BHSF's Brian Hall explores why access to a 24/7 GP is such a positive way to boost employee health

Amazon's virtual assistant is set to be part of the government's long-term plan for the NHS, in an attempt to ease pressure on the service - especially GPs. This idea might bring speed and convenience, but should people really be putting their trust in a robot when it comes to something as serious as their health? It's easy to see why this idea has been brought to life. Currently in the UK, there's a week's waiting time for a third of all GP appointments, and for 18% - a wait of two weeks or more. The public's satisfaction with the NHS is at its lowest level since 2007, with GP waiting t...

To continue reading this article...

Join COVER for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, key trend analysis and industry insights.
  • Stay on top of the latest developments around health and wellbeing, diversity and inclusion and the cost of living crisis.
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletter.
  • Members only access to monthly programme 'The COVER Review'
  • Be the first to hear about our CPD accredited events and awards programmes.

Join now

 

Already a Cover member?

Login

More on Employee Benefits

Partner Insight: Workforce resilience starts with better health support

Partner Insight: Workforce resilience starts with better health support

Simply Health
clock 26 November 2025 • 1 min read
The UK's productivity problem requires more than blanket benefits

The UK's productivity problem requires more than blanket benefits

The role of health

Paula Allen
clock 25 November 2025 • 3 min read
SMEs lagging behind on wellbeing: Unum UK

SMEs lagging behind on wellbeing: Unum UK

A two-tier workforce

Cameron Roberts
clock 20 November 2025 • 1 min read