Wellness Program Benefits Information
Employee wellness programs are an excellent way to help defray the rising cost of health care. In addition to cost-savings, employers who provide wellness programs report improvements to worker productivity and retention, as well as improving the working environment.
Reduced Health Care Costs
Recent studies indicate that almost half of corporate profits go toward the cost of health care for its employees. According to the Surgeon General, 70 percent of all illnesses are due to lifestyle-related causes such as poor diet and inadequate exercise. Improving wellness of employees can potentially decrease a company's costs in medical claims by an average of $100 to $400 per participant.
Decreased Absenteeism
According to research from the American Sports Data, frequent exercisers were absent from work only two days per year, compared to three days for more sedentary individuals. Large companies such as Dupont, General Mills and General Electric found a 20 to 45 percent decrease in absenteeism.
Reduced Injury and Worker's Compensation Claims
Corporate wellness programs that incorporate fitness, stretching, and ergonomics have helped reduce work injury claims by as much as 80 percent, with fewer days away from work, fewer restricted workdays, and a decreased number of claims for worker's compensation.
Improved Productivity
Improving the health of employees can also result in reduced errors, improved efficiency and improved decision-making ability, resulting in a higher level of productivity. NASA, for example, found that the productivity of non-exercising office workers decreased 50 percent during the final two hours of the work day, but markedly improved as employees became more fit
Improved Morale and Company Loyalty
Wellness programs are viewed as a positive benefit for employees, and companies offering these programs see a more engaged workforce with lower turnover. It is also has a positive impact on the recruitment of high-achieving employees. In addition, the social support of a wellness program promotes employee camaraderie.
Tags: Benefits Information, cost health, cost health care, from work, Program Benefits
