Generation Z, as defined by the Pew Research Center, includes individuals born between 1997 and 2012. As digital natives, they are unafraid to voice their opinions and have learned from the mistakes of previous generations.
While some members of Gen Z are still in their early teens, others are already making a significant impact in the workforce—including the healthcare industry.
They’re Okay with Skipping the Office Visit
Gen Z thrives in a digital-first world. With telehealth and virtual care becoming more mainstream, this generation is more comfortable than ever with remote healthcare. They don’t feel the need to visit a doctor’s office for every minor concern. Instead, they opt for video consultations, chat-based diagnoses, and digital prescriptions. Health insurers must keep up by offering plans that include robust telemedicine options—because if they don’t, Gen Z will look elsewhere.
Mental Health is a Priority
The stigma around mental health is fading, thanks in large part to Gen Z. But that doesn’t mean they’re thriving—far from it. Less than half of Gen Z members report having good or excellent mental health. Even though stress levels have slightly improved, according to research from Deloitte, a staggering 40% of Gen Zers still feel stressed most of the time. They expect insurance plans to reflect this reality, prioritizing mental health benefits with easy access to therapy, coaching, and wellness resources. Any employer ignoring this demand risks losing young talent to companies that actually care.
Benefits Beyond the Doctor’s Office
Gen Z wants more than just traditional coverage. They’re looking for holistic wellness solutions—things like fitness subsidies, alternative therapies, and stress management programs. Insurance plans that include these benefits will have a competitive edge.
Wearables, AI, and Data-Driven Wellness
Tech is second nature to Gen Z, and they use it to stay on top of their health. According to the World Economic Forum, Two-thirds of Gen Z rely on fitness trackers and wellness apps—far more than older generations. They’re also twice as likely to share their health data with insurers, retail clinics, or third-party apps. This generation isn’t waiting for a doctor to tell them something’s wrong—they’re tracking their health in real time and expect their insurance to work with them, not against them.