Three in four women say benefits don't meet their health needs

New findings from RBC Insurance show that many Canadian employees face significant coverage gaps in employer group benefits plans—particularly women, younger workers, and those living with chronic conditions.  

The survey suggests that accessibility, affordability, and awareness remain key barriers to inclusive health coverage, impacting overall well-being. 

Although women make up nearly half of the Canadian workforce, 75 percent say they want or need benefits that specifically support women’s health, such as fertility and menopause services.  

According to RBC Insurance, women also report higher barriers than men in accessing care due to: 

• Insufficient coverage amounts (31 percent versus 22 percent), 

• Difficulty securing appointments (25 percent versus 17 percent), and 

• Rising costs and affordability (68 percent versus 49 percent). 

Mental health concerns such as anxiety or depression are reported by 33 percent of women, compared to 17 percent of men, as a barrier to improving well-being. 

The survey found that 54 percent of employees or their spouses are living with a chronic condition. Rising costs prevent many from fully using their benefits or seeking necessary care.  

Affordability is cited by 58 percent of Canadians as a major factor impacting well-being. 

Among those managing disabilities, many report coverage remains inadequate: 

• 31 percent with chronic physical disabilities, 

• 31 percent with developmental disabilities, and 

• 28 percent with mental health-related disabilities. 

These groups often face out-of-pocket expenses that exceed what they consider justifiable. 

Among Canadians aged 18–34, one in five (20 percent) are unsure of the employee benefits available to them.  

This lack of awareness is higher than among those aged 35–54 (13 percent) and those 55 and older (12 percent). 

While younger workers show strong interest in improving financial health and work-life balance, many face barriers such as: 

• Affordability (59 percent), 

• Lack of motivation (44 percent), and 

• Busy schedules (40 percent). 

They also report that coverage amounts often fall short of their needs. 

Tony Bruin, head of Group Benefits at RBC Insurance, stated that the findings are a call to action for employers and benefits providers alike, as there's a real opportunity to close the gap between what employees need and what they receive. 

Bruin said that tailoring and prioritizing inclusive and relevant benefit solutions could help employers better support their teams.  

“When employers focus on investing in more inclusive, tailored benefits, they can boost employee satisfaction,” he said, adding that this approach also helps build healthier, more engaged teams.