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Despite significant medical advances and widespread access to health information, Americans are still avoiding preventive care—and in alarming numbers.

A recent Aflac Wellness Matters Survey found that 9 in 10 Americans have put off a health checkup or screening that could help catch a serious illness early. That includes routine annual physicals, cancer screenings, and even basic lab work. The reasons range from fear and embarrassment to logistical barriers and lack of trust in medical providers.

This behavior comes at a cost—not just for individuals, but for employers as well.

The Hidden Costs of Delayed Care

When employees delay routine care, it increases the likelihood of serious illness, absenteeism, disability claims, and costly medical interventions down the road.

For employers, this can result in:

• Higher health plan costs

• Lost productivity

• Greater strain on short-term disability and leave programs

• Lower employee engagement and morale

Preventive care is one of the most effective tools we have to avoid these outcomes—but it’s being underused, especially among younger employees.

What’s Getting in the Way?

According to the survey:

• 48% of Americans say logistical challenges (like work schedules, lack of childcare, or transportation) keep them from going to the doctor.

• 1 in 5 don’t have a primary care doctor, with many relying on urgent care or ER visits for non-emergency needs.

• Distrust of providers and discomfort around medical exams are especially common among Gen Z and Millennials.

• Confusion about insurance coverage also deters preventive care. For example, one-third of respondents aren’t sure if their plan covers skin cancer or STD screenings.

This shows a gap between what’s covered and what people understand about their coverage.

How Employers Can Make a Difference

The good news? Employers are in a strong position to help employees get the care they need—before it becomes critical. Here are a few practical strategies:

1. Offer Incentives for Preventive Visits

Nearly 9 in 10 survey respondents said they’d be more likely to go to the doctor if they were offered a financial incentive. Whether it’s a cash reward, HSA contribution, or a gift card—this can be a powerful motivator.  Even some voluntary benefit policies such as Critical Illness and Accident coverages offer financial incentives for their participants to go get a health checkup or screening.

2. Build Awareness About What’s Covered

Many preventive services are available at no cost under ACA-compliant health plans, but employees may not know that. Help demystify what’s included by offering clear, accessible education about screenings and coverage.

3. Promote Access Through Telehealth or On-Site Clinics

For employees who struggle with scheduling or transportation, telehealth offers a convenient way to access care. Consider highlighting these options—or even providing access to on-site screenings and flu shots.

4. Foster a Culture of Health and Trust

Encourage leadership to talk openly about the importance of preventive care. Normalize checkups and screenings through internal communications and wellness challenges. And make sure your benefits partners are supporting culturally competent care for diverse employee populations.

           It All Starts With a Conversation

As Tom Morey, Aflac’s senior VP and chief actuary, put it:

“It starts with making preventive care a priority and taking steps toward establishing a trusted relationship with a primary care doctor.”

At J Gard Benefit Consultants, we believe that a well-designed benefits strategy and proper employee education can remove barriers to care and build a healthier workforce. If you’re looking to improve engagement with preventive care and drive better long-term outcomes, we’re here to help.

Let’s talk about how your organization can make wellness more accessible—for everyone.