Many U.S. workers avoid critical, preventative health screenings due to logistics

While August is a month dedicated to national wellness, a new survey by Aflac reminds Americans of the need to prioritize personal health care all 12 months of the year. 

The survey, which questioned 2,000 employed U.S. adults, found that three out of five Americans admitted to avoiding an important health screening over the last year – up 20% from 2023. The rate was even higher for millennials, 84% of whom said they had delayed a health or wellness screening in the past year. 

According to the survey, millennials avoided tests such as pap smears, STD screenings, full body skin cancer exams and blood tests at much higher rates than other generations. 

Logistics was the top reason cited for skipping appointments – including conflicts with work hours and difficulty taking time off – according to 50% of all Americans, 58% of millennials and 53% of Gen Z. 

Additionally, the survey found widespread confusion when it comes to what insurance does and doesn’t cover. One in four Americans say they don’t know if their health insurance covers STD screenings or full-body skin cancer exams. According to the survey, Gen Z and millennials were even more likely than Gen X and Boomers to state their insurance doesn’t cover common screenings. 

With all the barriers to accessing preventative health care, many U.S. employees end up taking a reactive, rather than proactive, approach to their health. The survey found that one in two Americans – including 70% of Gen Z and 66% of millennials – say they use urgent or emergency care as their primary source for health care. 

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The potential downfalls to not making the most of health care benefits are serious and often result in missed opportunities for early detection. Of the survey respondents who said they had been diagnosed with cancer, 56% found out during a routine exam or screening. 

“The 2024 Wellness Matters Survey uncovers an opportunity for CHROs (Chief Human Resources Officers) to encourage employees to make time for preventative care visits throughout the year. Savvy people leaders will recognize that open enrollment is one touchpoint – rather than the only touchpoint – for HR teams to educate their workforces about their benefits offerings and health care plans,” said Jeri Hawthorne, Aflac Chief Human Resources Officer.