WELLESLEY, Massachusetts, February 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – Sun Life U.S. has unveiled two clinical intervention programs for eligible members who are receiving disability or critical illness benefits. Data from these programs indicates that participants have seen enhancements in their health conditions. The reports present insights and data from each program, in collaboration with health partners, that were launched in 2022 and 2023. These initiatives are in line with Sun Life’s commitment to facilitating access to necessary care and coverage by offering health services and programs that complement core health insurance offerings.
AbleTo delivers virtual behavioral health services to covered members dealing with disability or critical illness benefits following a cancer diagnosis. On the other hand, Goodpath provides integrated virtual comprehensive care and coaching to individuals on disability due to musculoskeletal issues in the neck or back, or long-term symptoms of COVID-19. Both programs aim to provide personalized assistance to Sun Life members to navigate their medical conditions effectively, with the objective of enhancing health outcomes and facilitating a quicker return to productivity.
The outcomes demonstrate that AbleTo’s behavioral health program led to a significant decrease in depression, anxiety, and stress levels. Similarly, Goodpath’s program resulted in notable reductions in pain levels and improvements in both physical and mental health symptoms.
Sheila Sokolski, Assistant Vice President of Group Benefits Product and Marketing at Sun Life U.S., stated, “Through these partnerships, we are driving improved outcomes for our members, assisting them in addressing their health needs, and potentially aiding them in achieving better health and work outcomes. We are delighted to see the positive impact these programs will have on our employer clients, helping them retain valuable employees and contributing to enhanced health and productivity results.”
Sheila Weiss, R.N., Assistant Vice President of Group Claims and Clinical Services at Sun Life U.S., expressed, “The data has surpassed our expectations, and we are enthusiastic about engaging more members in these programs. As virtual services, the AbleTo and Goodpath programs reach individuals where they are, expanding access to care for a wider range of our members, including those who may otherwise face challenges in seeing a mental health specialist or receiving health and wellness coaching. We are continuously broadening our focus on member health, reinforcing our disability management initiatives.”
AbleTo’s behavioral health service is an eight-week program provided to eligible members receiving short-term disability or critical illness benefits due to cancer. Participants engage in virtual sessions with a dedicated therapist and receive resources to address mental health concerns and cope with their diagnosis. Sun Life’s internal claim data, along with industry research, indicates that mental health issues are prevalent comorbid conditions among individuals dealing with serious health diagnoses such as cancer. Before commencing treatment, each AbleTo participant undergoes an initial consultation to determine a care pathway tailored to their specific requirements. In addition to a therapist, participants are matched with a behavioral health coach and gain access to digital tools for interim use to progress towards their objectives.
Goodpath delivers virtual comprehensive care and coaching for various chronic conditions through a unified platform. Through Sun Life’s collaboration, Goodpath is accessible to eligible members receiving short-term disability benefits for neck and back musculoskeletal problems (common health conditions associated with disability) or long-term disability due to lingering COVID symptoms, an ongoing concern for employees and employers. Participants work individually with a dedicated health coach, receive physical items delivered to their homes, and access virtual resources and treatments. Each member initiates the program with a health assessment that evaluates their distinct symptoms, lifestyle, habits, and other underlying conditions, including mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
For more information on Sun Life’s outcomes with the AbleTo and Goodpath programs, refer to the recent reports .
About Sun Life
Sun Life is a prominent global financial services entity that offers asset management, wealth, insurance, and health solutions to individual and institutional clients. Sun Life operates in numerous markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Bermuda. As of December 31, 2023, Sun Life managed total assets worth C$1.40 trillion. For additional details, please visit .
Sun Life Financial Inc. is listed on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE), and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.
Sun Life U.S. stands as a major provider of employee and government benefits, facilitating over 50 million Americans in accessing necessary healthcare and coverage. Through collaborations with employers, industry associates, and governmental programs, Sun Life U.S. offers a range of benefits and services, including dental, vision, disability, absence management, life, supplemental health, medical stop-loss insurance, and healthcare navigation. Sun Life employs more than 8,300 individuals in the U.S., including staff in partner dental practices and affiliated asset management companies. Group insurance policies are issued by Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (Wellesley Hills, Mass.), with policies in New York issued by Sun Life and Health Insurance Company (U.S.) (Lansing, Mich.). For further information, visit our and .