“Since most adults spend more time at work than anywhere else, it makes sense that work should be a place that helps, rather than hinders, employees in meeting our health goals,” explains Tiana Wilkinson, Wellness Consultant for PacificSource.

Tiana helps our employer clients implement successful wellness programs that fit their organization’s unique needs. For employers who are considering starting a workplace wellness program, Tiana presents the many reasons it’s a great idea. Here’s a brief summary.

  • Healthcare costs. The biggest causes of healthcare spending – conditions like heart disease, lung disease, cancer, diabetes, and asthma – are actually modifiable risk factors. “We may not be able to control our genes, but lifestyle plays a huge role,” Tiana says. Movement, nutrition, and stress management not only help prevent health conditions from developing, but can also ward off the advancement and complications that can come with a condition. A wellness program can encourage and support your employees in developing a healthy lifestyle, thus having a direct impact on healthcare claims.
  • Productivity. When employees are well, they miss less work due to illness. And while they are at work, they’re more present and better able to focus on the task at hand.
  • Employee morale. A well-designed and comprehensive wellness program – one that encompasses physical, emotional, financial, and spiritual well-being – also fosters team building and a culture of optimism.
  • Recruitment and retention. This may be the most powerful aspect of a workplace wellness program for employers. Promoting and supporting wellness sends a message that your organization is a great place to work. People will want to work there and will want to stay. It builds loyalty and it humanizes your work environment.

Does it really work?

You may be wondering, can a wellness program really improve health behaviors and reduce health risks? Research shows that it can. For example, in a 2012 study of 267 individuals over two years, significant improvements were observed in the frequency and volume of exercise, and the consumption of vegetables and fruits.

Another study, in 2015, looked at data from nearly 174,000 wellness programs and assessed changes in blood pressure, body weight, cholesterol, nutrition, physical inactivity, stress, and tobacco use. Researchers concluded that program participation significantly reduced these health risks.

“When done right, workplace wellness is a huge benefit to both the organization and individual employees,” Tiana concludes.

Learn more

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