Care beyond borders: Five ways to support your traveling workforce

30% of travelers experience a medical issue whilst abroad. So, no matter where in the world work takes us, having international healthcare processes and protocols in place can make a real difference to the safety and well-being of your workforce.

For many corporate workers, international business travel has become a normal part of the job. Today, business travel accounts for a fifth of global tourism expenditure. And, with levels nearly back to pre-pandemic levels, 2024 is already shaping up to be a busy year for the business traveler. 

However, nearly two-thirds of business travelers say their employer could do more to keep them safe whilst on the road. In this guide, we’ll explore the five key ways that you can best ensure the health and well-being of your employees, wherever they are in the world. 

Before takeoff 

Prior to any upcoming trips, make sure your business travelers are as prepared as possible. Surprisingly, research shows that only 42% of organizations offer pre-travel training to their employees. If necessary, be sure to also arrange any required vaccinations and medical screenings before departure. Providing your employees with resources and guidance on destination-specific health risks –  as well as the availability of healthcare services at the destination and how to access them – will not only ensure peace of mind for both you and your employees, but also reduce the likelihood of any issues occurring during travel. 

During the trip

A safer journey begins with comprehensive healthcare coverage. According to a recent study, as many as 30% of travelers experience a medical issue whilst abroad. To mitigate such risks, employers should ensure employees have access to international health insurance coverage, including emergency medical evacuation if necessary. It’s also worth ensuring that they have access to the relevant documentation and coverage before they take off. 

If your company also provides access to tele-health services, this is worth promoting – particularly for employees who are frequently on the road. In many instances, it may be quicker and easier than accessing local assistance. For example, GulfCare provides its partners – and their employees – with access to specialized doctors through the TruDoc mobile app, to remotely support traveling workers with any medical issues or concerns. 

Mental well-being matters 

Traveling for work is perceived by many as a perk. However, the long hours, even longer journeys, loneliness and stress of international business can take their toll on workers. In fact, nearly half of business travelers report high-stress levels during trips. 

If your workplace provides access to remote mental health services, such as an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with remote counseling services, make this clear. An EAP can be a vital tool for employees before, during and after travel, and help them safeguard their mental well-being.

Check-in

60% of travelers say that they feel less stressed while they are away if they feel connected to the office. Keep a regular line of communication going with your employees, no matter where they are in the world, to re-emphasize that sense of connection. 

In practice, this could mean establishing regular check-in procedures and providing access to 24/7 support channels, depending on the size and capacity of your organization. This will ultimately help employees to feel more supported during their travels. 

The debrief 

The support for your traveling workers shouldn’t end when they return home. The period immediately after a business trip can be the ideal time to schedule a debriefing session, to assess if any element of your company’s corporate travel procedures and policies can be improved. By fostering an open dialogue with your employees, you can reinforce a culture of trust and respect that will only improve the outcome of international business prospects for your company.

For any corporate worker, the opportunity to travel for business can be both an opportunity and a challenge. Whilst it can open the door to new business opportunities and enrich an individual’s personal development, it can also be a tiring, stressful and isolating experience. By implementing proactive measures such as pre-travel preparation, healthcare provisions and ongoing support during and after travel, employers can demonstrate their commitment to employee welfare.

How GulfCare can help 

GulfCare is a leading provider of corporate healthcare plans in the GCC region. We work with businesses of all sizes and scales, to deliver fully customizable plans that meet the unique needs of their employees and businesses.

To learn more – and to receive a complimentary quote – contact us today.