|
Prevention is Good for Employees and the Bottom Line
The good news is there's no downside to having a Corporate Wellness Program. The economic benefits are well documented. According to Health Canada studies show that physical activity at the workplace can:
|
improve employee fitness and health
improve productivity and morale
improve job satisfaction and team spirit
reduce absenteeism and turnover
reduce stress and back injuries
reduce workplace injuries and workers' compensation costs
reduce claims against group benefit plans
|
Today, illness due to physical inactivity costs the Canadian health care system $2.1 billion annually. This situation contributes to absenteeism, turnover, injuries, low productivity, short-term and long-term disability. Employers who invest in proactive wellness programs not only save the company money but they reap the benefits of productive satisfied employees and develop a reputation for being a good employer.
Cost Benefit Analysis
According to a study undertaken by Atlantic Blue Cross Care, Aventis Pharma and the Atlantic Health and Wellness Institute,the overall cost-benefit analysis demonstrates a return of up to $1.64 for every dollar spent on improving the health of employees through comprehensive workplace wellness programs.
Participants with three to five risk factors offer a return of $2.04 for every dollar spent
For smoker participants, the return is $3.35 for every dollar spent, and
For blue-collar workers the return is $3.98 for every dollar spent.
Source: Project Impact Results of the study, undertaken by Atlantic Blue Cross Care, Aventis Pharma and the Atlantic Health and Wellness Institute.
Benefits to Employees
Employers who take an interest in the health and well being of their staff are making an important investment. Studies show that employees involved in workplace wellness programs reap the following benefits:
|
Feel better
Fewer accidents and injuries
Less incidence of illness and disease
More stamina
Weight loss
Better sleep
Greater degree of enjoyment of family, friends and leisure time
Handle stress and negative emotion more effectively
Increased job satisfaction
Greater general purpose in life
On-site facilities offer staff convenience, accessibility and time-efficiency
|
|
