New research illuminates the actions Americans believe companies should prioritize to tackle the nation's complex healthcare challenges.
Increasingly, Americans expect businesses to take a proactive role in addressing critical social issues, and healthcare is a prime example. We asked Americans what actions they think companies should take to prioritize U.S. healthcare challenges. Exactly half of respondents in a Reputation Leaders study said they would like companies to provide employee healthcare, underscoring the importance of employer-sponsored health insurance at a time when healthcare costs can be a significant burden for individuals and families.
Further, 48% said they want companies to focus on preventative healthcare. This suggests a desire for businesses to invest in the overall well-being of their employees, not just treat illnesses as they arise. By focusing on prevention, companies can potentially reduce long-term healthcare costs and improve the overall health and productivity of their workforce.
The research also highlights the diverse healthcare priorities of different age groups. For Americans under the age of 34, supporting healthcare access for underserved communities was the top priority. This demographic is acutely aware of existing health disparities and believes that companies have a responsibility to contribute to equitable access to care. While this was the third highest priority overall, its significance for younger Americans signals a growing expectation for corporate social responsibility in addressing healthcare inequities.
Conversely, for individuals aged 65 and older, boosting access to age-specific care was paramount, even though it ranked last among overall priorities. This highlights the unique healthcare needs of older Americans and the expectation that companies consider them when designing healthcare initiatives. It also underscores the importance of a nuanced approach, recognizing that different age groups have distinct healthcare requirements.
The implications of these findings are clear: Americans expect companies to be active and engaged participants in addressing the nation's healthcare challenges. This extends beyond simply providing basic health insurance. Whether it’s offering comprehensive benefits packages, investing in preventative care programs, supporting initiatives for underserved communities, or tailoring programs to the specific needs of different age groups, companies have a significant opportunity to positively impact the health and well-being of their employees, their families, and the broader population. Companies that proactively address these expectations are likely to enhance their reputation, attract and retain top talent, and build stronger relationships with their communities.
Companies that aspire to be recognized as responsible and effective healthcare stakeholders must adopt a more strategic and tailored approach. This involves understanding the diverse and evolving needs of different demographics, engaging with their communities to identify key challenges, and developing programs that address these specific needs. By embracing this approach, companies can not only fulfill their social responsibility but also create a healthier and more productive society.
Methodology: This survey was conducted in February 2025 among a total of 922 American adults over the age of 18. Data was weighted to match the demographics of the United States by gender, age, and region.
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