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Frequently Asked Questions Why should I offer a wellness program at work? What kind of return on investment can I expect from my wellness program? How much should I expect to spend on a wellness program? How do I start a worksite wellness program?
Why should I offer a wellness program at work? Companies that implement comprehensive, well-designed worksite wellness programs experience major benefits, from lower health care costs and reduced absenteeism to greater productivity and morale—ultimately providing a substantial return on investment. Often, companies that provide such programs for their employees report decreases in sick leave, hospital admissions, disability days and per capita workers' compensation costs. Additionally, health and wellness programs often have a positive impact in more ways than lower health care costs. Successful worksite wellness programs can result in healthy and happy employees who are more motivated and productive, use fewer sick days, and stay with the company longer. With an increased emphasis on productivity and profitability, organizations can no longer afford to ignore the impact of worksite wellness programs. What kind of return on investment can I expect from my wellness program? There is an ever-increasing amount of evidence to support the significant positive impact of worksite wellness programs. The literature regarding the positive economic impact of worksite wellness programs is sound: comprehensive, well-designed programs average a rate of return of approximately $3.50 for every dollar invested. Returns are also experienced in the form of reduced absenteeism, increased morale and greater productivity. Companies that implement wellness programs consistently find that their health care costs are reduced and that there is a significant difference in medical claims between exercising employees and non-exercising employees. For example:
How much should I expect to spend on a wellness program? Employee wellness programs vary in scope and cost. Estimates of the annual cost to employers of a comprehensive worksite wellness program can vary by as much $30 to $250 per employee, per year. Costs vary depending on the size of the organization and the extent of the facilities and programs offered. Therefore, careful assessment and analysis to determine appropriate programming is vital. An investment in comprehensive programming often costs more but can also return more in terms of economic benefit. Programs vary based on company needs, commitment and budget. You may choose anything from providing a good health/fitness newsletter to providing on-site staff dedicated to employee wellness. TriHealth Preventive Health Systems designs programs based on your organization’s specific needs and aligns them with your business plan. We encourage you to contact us for a free, on-site consultation to learn how your organization can create a healthier and more productive workforce. How do I start a worksite wellness program? You may begin with an assessment of your organization regarding the following factors:
After evaluating the organizational assessment above, you may wish to implement a health risk assessment. In a health risk assessment, employees complete a questionnaire about their current exercise, eating, smoking and other lifestyle habits. You may also offer a medical screening for blood pressure, body fat, glucose and cholesterol. After the results of the employee health risk assessment are compiled, participants receive personalized, confidential reports. Employers receive an aggregate health report of all participants, indicating the number of individuals that may be at risk, along with a compilation of the levels of interest employees have for various wellness products. These reports will assist you in evaluating which health programs are most appropriate for your organization. |
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