Gallup: Preventative Medicine Starts in the Workplace

Employees who are engaged are more likely to be in better health, eat well and exercise frequently than their disengaged counterparts, according to a report from the Gallup Business Journal.

The report found that thriving employees, or those with strong, progressive well-being and who make up 58 percent of the U.S. workforce, have 41 percent lower health-related costs ($4,395) compared to struggling employees ($7,388) and 62 percent lower health-related costs compared to suffering employees ($11,709). 

The report also suggests that employers play an important role in boosting employee engagement and, by proxy, employees' overall healthy habits, which may reduce their risk of chronic diseases, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, depression and heart attacks.

A few suggested employer actions to boost employee well-being include:

  • Making well-being a company strategy.
  • Communicating a commitment to well-being in all company programs.
  • Holding leaders accountable for making well-being programs available for employees.
  • Embedding activities that enhance well-being into employee development plans and goals.
  • Create a workplace environment where making healthy choices is second nature.

More Articles on Workforce Management:

Nurses at CHS' Northside Medical Center Plan for 1-Day Strike

Kaiser Offers Cash Bonuses in Employee Wellness Program

Valley Medical Center to Change Retirement Benefits

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