Wellness Programs in the Workplace
May 24th, 2009 | by admin |
Have you ever heard of wellness programs in the workplace? If so, there is a good chance that your employer feels strongly about the benefits of this type of program. However, wellness programs in the workplace are not common among every company in every industry. In fact, there are many companies that are behind the times when it comes to employee wellness.
In order to fully understand what wellness programs have to offer, you really need to know what benefits can come from this. Generally speaking, wellness programs are implemented in order to inform and assist employees in living a healthier lifestyle.
There are many different details that go into wellness programs in the workplace. Although not all wellness programs are the same, most of them are similar when it comes to several details. For instance, most wellness programs in the workplace touch on general health topics, dealing with mental and physical health, and even offering health screenings. With all of these factors being offered, it is easy to see why so many companies are considering a wellness program, or are taking a closer look at programs they currently offer.
So what is the point in offering wellness programs in the workplace? Remember that employees spend on average 47 hours per week at the office. And the fact of the matter is that this is only increasing as time goes on. In addition, technology such as laptop computers and cell phones are making it easier than ever before for work to follow employees home. In turn, all of this cuts into the amount of time that an employee can devote to their health and wellness. Not only will this put employees at risk for health problems, but it will also negatively affect their work performance. As you can see, a lack of health and wellness will burden both the employee as well as the employer.
Quality wellness programs in the workplace can go a long way in helping employees to lead a better life both in and out of the office. Studies have also shown that a wellness program can also help companies to increase their bottom line; and what employer is not interested in doing that?
There are many primary benefits that go along with wellness programs in the workplace. Some of the more popular ones include: increased productivity, lower health care costs, fewer physical injuries, reduced job turnover, and increased loyalty among many others.
Overall, wellness programs in the workplace are becoming more and more common. With so much to offer, it is safe to say that companies without these programs will be moving in this direction over the next few years. Remember, wellness programs in the workplace are beneficial for both employees and the employer.
John Payton
http://www.articlesbase.com/human-resources-articles/wellness-programs-in-the-workplace-121111.html
2 Responses to “Wellness Programs in the Workplace”
By qeen dee on May 24, 2009 | Reply
what are the benefits of health and wellness programs in a workplace?
By Sandy on May 24, 2009 | Reply
Corporate health and fitness has been extremely prominent in the United States and in European countries over the past ten years. Studies have shown that health and wellness programmes are an investment in human resources and productivity.
The strong correlation between good health and performance highlights the need for organisations to better manage the health of their staff. Wellness programmes provide a systematic approach to managing health by incorporating education, guidance and training.
Why a Worksite Wellness Program
Facts
* Our country spends 95% of our health care dollars, one trillion dollars a year, on diagnosing and treating many diseases. However, half of all deaths in the United States can be prevented.
* People with many health risks (e.g., obesity, cigarette smoking, and high blood pressure) tend to be less productive than those who are in better health.
* Johnson and Johnson’s results from a new Worksite Wellness Program showed that 80% of participants said they could better handle stress and 81% stated that they increased their productivity at work as a result of the program.
* A study showed that employees with no risk factors paid about $190 a year on medical expenses. Those who had one risk factor paid $360 a year. Persons with 2-3 risk factors paid about $542 a year and those with 4-5 risk factors paid $718 a year in medical expenses.
* Another study showed that not being physically active costs an employer $1900 annually. Employers must pay for a decrease in productivity as well as higher costs for health insurance disability and being absent from work.
References :
http://www.mass.gov/dph/fch/wellness/index.htm