The Key to Reducing the Burden of Diabetes on Employers and Communities in the GCC

Modern lifestyles offer numerous comforts, but they also come with long-term consequences, such as the rise in lifestyle-related diseases like diabetes. In the GCC countries, employers bear 90% of healthcare costs, making chronic illnesses like diabetes a significant concern. This post will examine the impact of diabetes on employers, referencing recent research by Nomi Health, and emphasize the need for collaborative efforts between companies and healthcare providers to mitigate this growing burden.

The Staggering Cost of Diabetes for Employers

Nomi Health's recent report reveals that diabetes costs U.S. employers a staggering $245 billion a year, with employers spending over $175 billion annually on direct medical and pharmacy costs for diabetic members. Additionally, nearly $70 billion goes toward indirect costs like employee absenteeism, reduced productivity, and diabetes-related disability. The cost of care for diabetics is increasing twice as fast as for non-diabetics, growing at a nearly 20% year-over-year rate, reaching an average of over $20,000 per member per year (PMPY) for employers in 2020-21.

Patients diagnosed with diabetes also face higher costs, spending about 240% more on medical bills and nearly 450% more on pharmacy expenses than non-diabetics. These figures demonstrate the immense economic impact diabetes has on both employers and employees, as well as the broader community.

“Healthier communities are the key to healthier tomorrows to achieve this, companies must work closely with hospitals.”

— Dr. Fatih Mehmet GUL

Diabetes in the Middle East

• The Middle East has one of the highest rates of diabetes in the world, with nearly 39 million people living with the disease.

• In some GCC countries, over 20% of the adult population is affected by diabetes.

• Diabetes-related complications, such as kidney disease and cardiovascular disease, are also significant health issues in the region.

The Need for Collaborative Solutions

To achieve healthier communities, companies must work closely with hospitals and healthcare providers to develop collaborative solutions that help reduce the negative effects of diabetes and other chronic illnesses. Possible collaborative approaches include:

1. Implementing workplace wellness programs focusing on early detection, prevention, and management of diabetes and other chronic conditions.

2. Encouraging healthy living initiatives, such as providing healthier food options in the workplace and promoting physical activity among employees.

3. Offering support for diabetic employees through proper medical insurance and coverage for medications as pre-deductible preventive measures.

4. Providing employees with tools and resources to help manage their disease, such as health coaching, educational materials, and access to support groups.

Conclusion

The Nomi Health report serves as a stark reminder of the significant burden diabetes places on employers and communities. By working together with healthcare providers and adopting a collaborative approach, employers in the GCC can help reduce the impact of diabetes and pave the way for healthier communities and brighter tomorrows.

Reference: Out of Control: U.S. Employers Spend $245B a Year on Diabetes as Diagnosis Rates Rise, New Nomi Health Data Shows.