Medical subscriptions, "the most appreciated non-cash extra-salary benefit"

The number of sick leave days has increased by more than 25% in recent years, according to official data.

Health problems also lead to a lower commitment at work and an increase in stress levels.

Under these conditions, companies have sought solutions to provide employees with access to preventive medical services. Alexandra Cristea comes with details.

Reporter: The market for medical subscriptions has had a significant rise and has matured in the last 10 years, these subscriptions being currently the most appreciated non-cash extra-salary benefit, after meal vouchers.

Women are the most active category of patients among subscribers, with over 55% of accessing services in the system being performed by women aged between 18 and 50 years.

At the same time, people with chronic conditions have actively used medical subscriptions, and in the last five years approximately 310.000 chronically ill people have benefited from consultations and investigations. The medical subscription is a tool that encourages prevention and the creation of a medical routine.

Having access to dozens of consultations and tests, as well as establishing a relationship with a doctor, makes the fear disappear and trust is built. Many Romanians do not go to the doctor because of the fear that they may find out they are suffering from an illness.

Yes, it is true, many of those who have accessed services through subscriptions have found that they have certain health problems, but the good news is that they have been able to treat them in time, managing to prevent the aggravation of the problem and possible more complicated and more expensive treatments.

Translated by: Radu Matei