The concept behind workplace-based wellness programs is straightforward: healthy employees are less costly to insure. They attend work more consistently, show higher productivity, and file fewer health insurance claims. Employers can kick off a wellness program quickly by offering flu shots, preventive health exams, and other easy-to-implement initiatives. Promoting health within a workforce not only benefits the company’s bottom line but also enhances overall employee well-being.
Incentivizing Wellness Goals: Encouraging Employee Participation
To strengthen their wellness programs, many companies are now incentivizing employees to reach certain biometric targets. Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as of January 2014, employers can offer health care cost reductions up to 30 percent for general wellness programs and up to 50 percent for programs targeting tobacco cessation (an increase from the previous cap of 20 percent).
These regulatory changes support the trend toward employer-based wellness programs. A recent survey by the National Business Group reveals that spending on wellness incentives has doubled over the past four years. Popular incentives include:
- Premium discounts
- Cash or gift cards
- Contributions to health savings accounts
Creating a Lasting Culture of Wellness
Incentives, such as cash for attending a health screening, are just the beginning. To foster a lasting culture of wellness, employers must find ways to engage employees in their health journey. A successful wellness program requires a year-long strategy, carefully messaged and designed to build a culture centered on good health.
Tips for Setting Up an Effective Wellness Program
- Start Small
Begin with cash rewards for participation in Health Risk Assessments and biometric screenings for blood pressure, weight, and cholesterol. Use this data as a baseline to track health improvements over time. - Design Recurring Events
Offer incentives to employees who maintain annual preventive health screenings with their primary care physicians. Regular health check-ups keep wellness efforts consistent and reinforce healthy habits. - Advance Goals Over Time
After a few years, encourage deeper engagement by setting specific health goals, such as reduced blood pressure, improved cholesterol, or smoking cessation. Reward employees who meet and sustain these health milestones. - Move Beyond Financial Rewards
While financial incentives help kickstart participation, social activities are critical for sustained engagement. Tools like Fitbit and Virgin Pulse allow employees to track fitness, form teams, and participate in challenges. When wellness becomes a group effort, employees are more likely to feel committed to the program. - Communicate Consistently and Effectively
Promote the wellness program with clear, simple messaging across multiple channels—emails, newsletters, and break room flyers. Share success stories to inspire others, and ensure company leaders are actively involved to reinforce the program’s importance.
Contact Us
By encouraging healthy habits among employees, you can enhance attendance, boost productivity, and reduce healthcare costs. For more information on incentivized wellness plans for Maryland businesses, feel free to contact PSA, or email largenbright@psafinancial.com.
