More and more companies are offering wellness programs as a way to boost morale and cut health care costs in the long run.
The benefits of wellness programs
Employers are finding that wellness programs have several benefits. Through a recent survey conducted by by Aon Hewitt in partnership with Rush Health.
“The wellness survey showed that employers target lifestyle habits to improve the health of employees,” said Brent Estes, president and CEO, Rush Health.
“Keeping people healthy isn’t merely a booming trend; it’s a necessary part of life. It’s important to invest in the health of your employees by helping to identify the current health status and health risks of your workforce. It’s an additional measure that employers can take to help employees remain healthy.”
“The overall wellness and health of employees has been an increased focus for many employers,” said Dr. Michael Cryer, national medical director with Aon Hewitt. “Implementing wellness initiatives has the potential to boost productivity and reduce indirect medical costs. Incentives and wellness programs benefit all involved.”
What is involved in wellness programs?
While wellness programs vary by organization, the activities included risk identification tools such as health risk assessments, questionnaires and screenings for blood-pressure and cholesterol; behavior modification programs that involved coaching, smoking cessation and weight management and nutrition programs; an increase in healthy work environment options that encourage group walking programs and a larger selection of healthy eating options; and program measurement result monitoring to identify participation levels, satisfaction, reductions in risk factors and changes in health behavior.
According to a press release, two out of five employers offer incentives for participation and completion of lifestyle modification programs such as weight loss or quitting smoking.
The survey showed that more employers would like to offer wellness program and encourage healthier lifestyle habits.
For more wellness tips, check out a previous article with Life and Wellness Coach Kira Freed.
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