Employee wellness programs are large draws for potential employees and major perks for existing employees. And why not, with amenities like on-site gyms, weight loss groups and challenges and even employed masseuses, employee wellness programs help your employees feel well taken care of. Before instituting a program, carefully weigh the pros and cons to see if bringing in outside help or starting various health groups is a good idea for your business.
Pro: Morale
Employee wellness programs can boost office morale and inter-employee relationships. Whether you institute a weight loss challenge, a runners group or an on-site gym, you are bringing employees together in interest groups with those who share their passions. Changing how your employees interact and support one another can translate to a more supportive and positive work environment overall.
Con: Cost
The cost of employee wellness programs is something that every employer must consider before introducing them. Obviously, inviting on-site masseuses, building a gym or bringing in a nutritionist will cost money. Some of the wellness employees you bring in can be paid a salary like other employees, but facilities will need upfront cash in order to begin building.
Pro: Productivity
You may see that you have a boost in productivity following the institution of an employee wellness program. A website for employee wellness programs points to the fact that some employees may be dealing with less stress and are better able to focus on their work. Other theories include a surge of energy following weight loss or when eating more healthily. Either way, the boost in productivity can be well worth the cost of the program.
Con: Non-Enrollment
While your solution to paying for a health and wellness program is to take it out of your employees' paychecks as an addition to health insurance, keep in mind that not all employees purchase health insurance from their employers. You may find that you have some employees who don't want to participate. In this case, you can find ways for free or cheap health and wellness programs. A runners group doesn't cost anything, nor does a weight loss group.
Pro: Health Care Costs
Having a health and wellness program instituted in your workplace can help save your business money on health care costs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted that obesity alone accounts for 9 percent of all health care costs, and that number is steadily rising. Introducing weight loss or healthy eating through a wellness program can save your company thousands of dollars in health care costs, just by introducing employees to a healthier lifestyle.
Con: Embarrassment
Some employees may feel as if they are being singled out with a wellness program. For instance, a smoker might feel alienated when you introduce a quit smoking group, or someone who is overweight may feel targeted when he's invited to join a weight loss challenge. Be sensitive to your employees' situations, and invite everyone with open enrollment for the best results.
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