Showing Employers the Value of Wellness Programs at Work

As noted in previous articles, the value of wellness programs is becoming increasingly obvious – lost productivity due to an unhealthy workforce is costing businesses billions each year. With this in mind, the value of wellness programs for employers seems like a simple equation – implement a wellness program, improve the health of employees, reduce costs.

However, convincing employers to provide a population health risk management solution may require a few additional steps.

3 Steps to Illustrate Wellness Programs at Work

1. Create a Roadmap

Providing a clear strategy for how to identify and mitigate risks through a worksite wellness program can help employers to understand the steps for defining the current health status of their employees. Illustrating a preventative road map by way of mass screenings, condition management, health education and coaching can help to differentiate the methods and benefits of building a resource that empowers employees to engage in their own health vs. waiting for health matters to. Ultimately, this road map can be positioned as the baseline for overall awareness and improvements later on.

In addition to a strategy for executing a worksite wellness program, consider including a framework for promotion and communication that will help to drive utilization among the eligible population. This may be a general outline that indicates materials and outreach opportunities relevant to the organization that will generate awareness.

2. Measure Progress

In line with providing steps for execution, it will be important to note the value of defining goals for the high and moderate risk areas identified through early screenings and analysis. Tracking progress among these key areas will help to evaluate which tactics are proving to be successful, and will identify opportunities for additional resources that will influence overall utilization and behavioral change. Over time, this progress can be measured against the initial investment and resulting costs to estimate savings and ROI – both crucial insights for the employer.

3. Build Morale

At the core of common statistics and financial savings are personal success stories – a reminder of what it’s all about, providing care that changes lives and builds a healthier workforce. An added value to implementing a population health risk management system includes developing a meaningful relationship between employees and their employer. It provides an opportunity for the employer to engage with the needs of their organization and build a culture of health from the top down. As a result, the employer can expect to see high morale, strong retention, and influential success for both employees and the organization.

Learn more about how wellness programs can support both your employees and your organization overall.