Well-being is a person’s ability to address normal stressors and work productivity. Workplace health and wellness intends to boost individuals’ well-being through various activities and policies. There is no question that this is a growing trend. With the increasing focus on employee well-being, many organizations are looking for ways to create a healthier work environment. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s more important than ever to ensure your employees are healthy and productive. But what is workplace health and wellness exactly? And why should employers care? By creating a healthy work environment, you can help improve your employees’ physical and mental well-being. In this article, we’ll discuss what workplace health and wellness is and how you can implement it in your business.
Definition of Workplace Wellness
Workplace health and wellness is a diverse topic that can have several definitions depending on the workspace or industry. In general, workplace wellness is any activities, promotions, or policies in the workplace that focus on the fitness and well-being of employees. The CDC defines workplace wellness as “a coordinated and comprehensive set of health promotion and protection strategies implemented at the worksite that includes programs, policies, benefits, environmental supports, and links to the surrounding community designed to encourage the health and safety of all employees”. A commitment to workplace health and wellness is often through a health and wellness program.
Benefits of Focusing on Workplace Health and Wellness
Focusing on workplace health and wellness grants a multitude of benefits to employers, employees, and customers. Implementing a workplace health program can lower healthcare costs for the company by decreasing the number of work-related illnesses and injuries. Additionally, companies will see a decrease in worker’s compensation costs. The combination of a decrease in employee absenteeism and enhanced employee productivity will boost revenue and efficiency. The increased organizational commitment to the creation of a culture of health boosts corporate image to the general public and improves recruitment and retention rates.
For employees, the benefits of workplace health and wellness are numerous. Workplace wellness can lower out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services, such as co-pays or pharmacy prescriptions. Additionally, it creates a safer and more supportive work environment where employees feel cared for and are more satisfied with their job.
Workplace health and wellness programs decrease costs, boost employee satisfaction, and increase revenue!
How to Develop a Culture of Workplace Health and Wellness
Developing a culture of wellness in the workplace does not happen overnight. It takes commitment from upper management, resources for middle management, and engagement from employees. Here are three steps to start implementing a culture of workplace health and wellness:
- Analyze the Needs of the Workplace
The first step to creating a culture of wellness is seeking employee input on the status of employee wellness. Focus groups, surveys, and individual interviews are ways to gather input from employees. For the successful implementation of a workplace health and wellness program, employees must be engaged in the creation of the program.
- Create a Program that Fits the Employees
Use the information from the surveys and focus groups to create a program accessible to all employees and their families. Work with employees to decide on health policies and regulations.
- Regularly Evaluate the Success of the Program
Regularly check in with managers and employees to see how the program works for them. Evaluate which aspects of the program work well to promote workplace wellness and which need to be adjusted. Additionally, provide recognition to those who have regularly participated in or promoted the wellness program.
Implementing a workplace wellness program can be a daunting task, but it is well worth the effort. Work Health Solutions has the experience and expertise to help your company develop a successful wellness program that will improve the health and well-being of your employees while reducing healthcare costs. Contact us today to get started!
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Work Health Solutions offers comprehensive healthcare solutions for your medical needs. Our qualified team treats patients and employers alike and always provides top-quality service. Our quality service is backed by years of experience working with academic and research institutions, corporate healthcare, Fortune 25 companies, small governments, and local businesses. Reach out today with any questions you may have about how we can assist you!
