Advantages Of Wellness Programs

Lifestyle related illnesses account for 50 percent of healthcare expenditures, reports the Texas Department of State Health Services. Investing in a wellness program helps individuals make better lifestyle choices. A wellness program offers cost advantages for corporations and improved health for participants. Typical wellness programs include health risk assessment, preventive screening, education on nutrition and eliminating negative behaviors. Many support fitness training or cost sharing for membership at fitness centers.

Lower Costs

Healthier employees help lower insurance costs. Mercedes Carnethon, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the department of preventive medicine at Northwestern University, writing for the American Heart Association in 2009, reports that companies save $3 to $5 dollars for every dollar spent on wellness programs. IBM estimates that the $80 million a year it spends on wellness programs adds $191 million to their bottom line.
The demonstration of concern inherent in the provision of wellness services through an employer contributes to employee retention and lowers over-all costs of doing business. Writing in "Leadership Elements," Mike Mears tells senior executives that employees reciprocate corporate concern for their well-being through increased loyalty and productivity.

Fewer Absences and Injuries

Healthier employees have fewer sick days and on-the-job injuries. In an older study reported by Coors Brewing Company, the company had an 18 percent decrease in employee absenteeism after implementing a corporate wellness program. Travelers Insurance showed a similar drop in sick days after instituting a wellness program. In a report from Corporate Wellness, demonstrated cost reductions due to absence and injury decreased approximately 25 percent.

Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis remains key to successful treatment outcomes for coronary artery disease, many types of cancer, diabetes, osteoporosis, and Parkinson's Disease. The advantage of wellness programs revolve around their emphasis on routine testing and early diagnosis for health problems that become life-threatening or more difficult to treat if diagnosed in later stages.
The advantage to individuals of early diagnosis includes less invasive procedures or treatments with fewer side effects and better probability of a successful outcome. For corporations offering wellness programs, the advantage of early diagnosis shows in faster return to work times and lower insurance payouts.