There are many reasons as to why it is important for businesses to want to keep their employees healthy. Worksite health promotion should be viewed as an investment in a business’ most important asset, its employees. Studies show that employees are more likely to be on the job and performing well when they are in optimal health. Benefits of implementing a wellness program include:
- Attracting the most talented workers
- Reducing absenteeism and lost time
- Improving on-the-job time utilization, decision making and productivity
- Improving employee morale
- Reduction in turnover
- Improved disease management and prevention, and a healthier workforce in general, both of which contribute to lower health care costs.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:
- 59% of employees do not get adequate exercise
- 50% or more have high cholesterol
- 27% have cardiovascular disease
- 26% are overweight by 20 percent or more
- 24% have high blood pressure
The Wellness Council of America (WELCOA) is dedicated to the promotion of worksite wellness, and has identified the seven best practices for employers to follow when building a wellness program within their organization. Information can be found at http://welcoa.org/