Employee Wellness in Down Economy
Employee Wellness and Healthcare Costs
Employee wellness programs are important now more than ever. According to an article in the Wall Street Journal, with the troubles in the economy it seems that the costs of employer provided healthcare keep continuing to grow and it doesn’t seem like it is going to change. The article states that during the year 2008, U.S. employers can expect to see an increase of 10% in healthcare costs.
This increase in health care costs is causing some small businesses to reduce their employee health benefits or get rid of them altogether.
Employee Wellness for Healthier Lifestyles
Employee wellness programs do provide an option for small businesses. The corporations can offer discounted co-pays and deductibles to those employees that fully participate in the offered corporate wellness program. Full participation means getting health screens, receiving a health risk assessment, and then working with their wellness coordinator to work towards a healthier lifestyle.
The healthier the employees, the lower the overall healthcare costs for the corporation. Just one lengthy hospital stay can almost deplete a small business’ healthcare budget.
Employee Wellness and Your Bottom Line
Employee wellness programs provide many advantages to a company’s bottom-line. Corporate wellness statistics from Prudential Insurance show a benefit expense of $312 per person enrolled in a wellness program compared to an expense of $574 per employee that wasn’t enrolled. Coors Brewing Company showed a positive side-effect of participant absenteeism dropping by 18%, thus greater production and less healthcare costs overall.
Employee Wellness is Smart Business Decision
With the down economy and the increase in healthcare costs, deciding to implement a wellness program is a smart business decision. Not to mention, it is very simple to do with the help of our wellness representatives. They will work with your staff in putting together the best and most appropriate wellness program for your employees. Contact them today to receive your free wellness proposal and start cutting your healthcare costs.
Tags: corporate wellness, economy, employee, employee wellness, employee wellness programs, health, health risk assessment, healthcare, healthcare costs, wellness
