Healthy Employees are Productive Employees
The desire to improve productivity, foster good relationships, and increase employee morale have led to the "wellness movement." Unhealthy employees not only increase the cost of health insurance, but interfere with their quality of life and contribution at work. A well-constructed wellness program is a "win-win" for employee and employer alike.
Employer Responses to Health Issues
Employers have initiated various types of wellness programs to foster a healthy lifestyle for employees. They include free health screenings, fitness memberships, educational awareness, and healthier snacks in the break rooms.
Mental Health and Personal Problems
Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) have grown in popularity as a great benefit to the employee and employer. Confidentiality is maintained while employees are provided several sessions with a qualified counselor in the areas of stress, marital difficulties, or other personal issues.
Specific Health Issues
Weight management, smoking cessation, alcohol and drug problems are some of the areas addressed by EAP's and other educational programs. Dietitians, substance abuse counselors, and other professionals are brought into the company to present educational classes and materials.
Positive Results
According to Ron Goetzel, Director of the Cornell University Institute for Health and Productivity Studies, an investment of just $100 to $150 per employee saves the company $300 to $400 in health care costs and absenteeism per year. At the same time, employees get the message that their companies and bosses care about their health.
Summary
Benefits of an employee wellness program are far reaching. Not only does the employee feel important, but the support of the company enables them to resolve health issues, possibly saving their lives. Healthy employees are happy and more productive, and absenteeism and turnover are decreased, resulting in a savings for the company.
Tags: employee employer, Health Issues, wellness program