Several models exist for work-site wellness programs because work is where adults spend a majority of their time, making the workplace a prime target for wellness programs. The benefits of such programs are far- reaching from improving employee morale to decreasing absenteeism and improving productivity, and therefore, company revenue.
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Increased Productivity
When employees are healthy, they are absent less often and more productive when they are at work. This increased presence during the day yields a better return on investment for the employer. Providence Everett Medical Center estimated a 1 to 3.8 cost benefit ratio from its employee health benefit plan. Additionally, Du Pont reports a 14 percent decrease in the absentee rate of employees from its wellness program.
Decreased Medical Expenses
Employee wellness programs typically involve preventative services and screenings. By taking advantage of services such as immunizations and preventative health screenings, chronic medical conditions may be identified early or prevented altogether. In addition to ensuring that employees remain healthy, these preventative services reduce employee and employer medical expenses. Steelcase employees classified as high-risk lowered their medical insurance costs, on average, by $618 a year by participating in the furniture- maker's employee wellness program.
Improved Stress Management
Prevention interventions focused on stress management have been shown to be effective in decreasing the negative effects of stress in the workplace. Work-load reduction, improved communication and conflict resolution skills are all ways to decrease stressors in the workplace. Additionally, teaching employees how to manage stressful situations through anger management workshops and teaching coping skills are effective in decreasing stress. Employee assistance programs involve medical intervention and counseling for employees who need a more comprehensive stress management program. Improved stress management techniques also improve company morale, making the work environment less stressful overall.
Improved Health
By taking advantage of employer provided in preventative wellness programs, learning stress management and improving overall wellness, employees will likely improve their overall health. Workers at Union Pacific Railroad who participated in health management programs experienced significant health improvements. 45 percent of employees lowered their risk of high blood pressure, 34 percent lowered their high cholesterol risk, 30 percent improved their weight and 21 percent were successful in smoking cessation. When employees begin to lead a better lifestyle so do their families, improving the wellness of the future workforce.
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