Worksite wellness programs
benefit both employer and employee.
Worksite wellness programs typically involve tips and support for weight-loss and exercise programs, stop-smoking initiatives, back care and stress management. The idea is that healthier and happier employees will equal more profit for the company. According to the Wellness Councils of America, more than 81 percent of businesses with 50 or more employees have some form of health promotion program. These programs benefit both employee and employer in a number of ways.
Reduced Absenteeism
When employees enjoy better overall health, they will end up taking fewer sick days. Over the course of time, this will save the company money due to less down time and not having to employ temporary help.
Reduced Health Care Claims
Having healthier, happier employees also means less illness and injury and far fewer health care claims. Claims for things such as drug prescriptions and physiotherapy will drop as employee health improves, which will result in less money being paid out in premiums by the company.
Reduced Employee Turnover
Creating a wellness program sends the message to employees that the company truly cares about their health and well being. This in turn will instill loyalty in employees, and turnover will be cut down, which means the company will spend less on hiring and training new employees.
Improved Productivity and Morale
When employees are illness-free and pain-free and they feel their employer really cares, their daily productivity will increase. They will be happier in general, happier to be at work and more efficient in what they do. Higher employee productivity will naturally result in more profit for the company.
Improved Quality of Life
Although many of the benefits of wellness programs belong to the company, the overall winners are the employees themselves. Those who choose to participate can expect to lose weight, improve stamina and cardiovascular health, reduce stress and improve their self image. These types of changes can transfer to all areas of life even outside the workplace. Not only will the employees extend their lives, they will also greatly improve the quality of their lives.
Tags: wellness programs, Worksite wellness programs, benefit both, happier employees, healthier happier
