Human Resources

The Importance of Employee Wellness Programs

Why bother with them

First, what are they?  It’s an employer sponsored program offered to employees and their family members that promotes health and the prevention of diseases.  There are programs that are targeted to healthy employees to encourage them to maintain their healthy lifestyle. Some examples are stress management and exercise programs.  There are programs that encourage employees to participate in health screenings, and eliminate at risk activities, such as smoking.  Last, some health programs seek to control existing health conditions.  An employer is free to choose as many or as few wellness programs as desired.  Many employers select plans based on their industry, and others interview employees to see what interests them before implementing a plan. After employee wellness programs are established, employers ask participants to complete health assessments and undergo biometric tests, and in return, the employer may reward employees with discounts on health care premiums or grant access to health education programs. Continue reading “The Importance of Employee Wellness Programs”