Many companies simply do not have the resources to create a large, complex wellness program. In fact, many groups even struggle to provide health insurance for their employees. Yet, these organizations can help the health of their employees and therefore, reduce healthcare-related costs. Here are some other advantages of wellness programs:
- They improve company morale and establish the company as a staple in the community.
- They create new opportunities for business partnerships with other organizations.
- They serve as a useful retention and attraction tool for new and existing employees.
Though your organization may not be able to fund a high-level wellness program, you can do some low- or even no-cost things to improve the health and wellness of your employees. Try some of these suggestions on for size:
- Contact a local hospital, non-profit organization or other healthcare provider to come and provide presentations on living healthy lifestyles.
- Partner with a local free clinic or public health department to have Health Risk Appraisals (HRAs) administered at your worksite for little or no cost.
- Create a wellness committee consisting of various employees. Have them create activities that can be done at the worksite to improve employee health, such as healthy eating days.
- Make your workplace smoke-free.
- Ask a local healthcare provider to give free immunizations.
- Provide healthy vending machine choices.
- Provide physical activity breaks during the day for your employees and encourage them to go outside for a quick run or walk.
- Offer incentives for employees to use the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Contact Shea Insurance for a plethora of wellness tools to benefit your employer group!
This article is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel for legal advice.
Content © 2008 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved
Content © 2008 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved
