May 2007

New Business

Wellness programs are in the news again

5/1/2007 -

With ever-increasing health care costs, businesses are taking another look at wellness programs for their employees. Typically, a wellness program pays employees for engaging in healthy activities - exercising, losing weight, quitting smoking, for example. In return for paying employees to be healthier, companies generally see a decline in health care costs and an increase in productivity. One large corporation says it has saved $225 per employee in medical costs each year due to its wellness programs. Another reports $2 to $3 in health care savings for every dollar spent on health improvement programs.

Many wellness programs offer a range of benefits to employees. Some include assessments for health risks, with annual physicals that emphasize prevention and early detection of disease. Some offer healthier food choices in the company cafeteria and on-site exercise facilities.

A wellness program may be worth another look for your business, too, especially if health care costs and productivity are issues that concern you.


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