Healthy employees lead to better business performance, talent retention, and thriving communities. Research continues to show that promoting healthy habits in the workplace benefits both employers and employees.
Why employers should invest in employee well-being
Healthy employees lead to increased productivity: Each year, personal and family health issues result in productivity losses that cost employers approximately $225.8 billion or $1,658 per employee, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). When wellness programs encourage employees to take care of themselves physically and mentally, their memory and focus are enhanced. This leads to increased productivity and decreased absenteeism throughout the organization.\
Healthy employees result in lower healthcare costs: This is good for both employers and employees. Large organizations with wellness programs in place experience less total medical costs in employee healthcare than organizations without an employee wellness strategy, according to a case study from the Office of disease Prevention and Health Promotion. In addition, the organizations that implemented a wellness program saw an average of $565 in health saving per employee per year while employees who participated in wellness programs saw a reduction in risk-factors for developing chronic illness.
On average, six percent of an organization’s health plan members are responsible for spending 80 percent of the plan’s total budget, according to research from Edison Healthcare. To change this disproportion, employers need to invest in workplace preventative measures to improve employee well-being.
Healthy employees mean healthier families and communities: Organizations have the ability to improve the well-being of the workforce, families, and the community at large. Fostering a healthier environment at work can translate to a greater impact at home, says Proactive MD. How does this benefit employers? When employees’ financial, family, and community needs are supported, they are able to be fully present throughout the workday. Not stressing or worrying about how they are going to pay bills or take care of a sick child translates to improved concentration in the workplace.
Healthy employees attract and retain talent: While salary is an important factor in job satisfaction, an attractive benefits package is just as important. A recent study found 60 percent of employees would take a job with lower pay but better benefits, while 16 percent said they left a job or turned down a job due to the lack of benefits offered.
Next steps for improving employee health
To help you prioritize employee health and well-being, Wellness Works developed a digital guide, Protecting Employee Health and Well-Being Amid COVID-19, outlining key elements that contribute to employee mental, emotional, and physical health, amid COVID-19.
Download your complimentary guide for helpful tips on having meaningful discussions with your employees about the importance of maintaining health and well-being in the coming months, including the significance of flu and routine vaccination.