Over the past few years, health and wellness programs have slowly made their way
into employer provided health care. However, they can be difficult to include in small business health benefits due to their cost. A survey by Welltok, Inc and the National Business Group on Health examines the effect of wellness programs on employees, as well as overall satisfaction among users. While the results are mostly favorable, it does seem that there is room for improvement.
Survey Findings Generally Favorable
Based on 1,000 responses from employees of large companies, the survey suggests that the overall opinion of employer-sponsored health and wellness programs is of a positive nature. About 81 percent of those that participate in such programs reported that they felt as though their physical well-being was better off. In addition, more than half believed that the inclusion of their families in the program would encourage them to participate more often.
Respondents Desire More Personalization
It is important to note that the one-size-fits-all approach that may have worked in the past is no longer effective. People are motivated by a variety of factors, including those outlined in this survey: direct managers, colleagues, and rewards programs. By customizing your small business health benefits’ approach, you can maximize participation.
One interesting statistic that materialized from the study was in reference to financial stability. Nearly two-thirds (63 percent) of employees making $50,000 or less felt that their employer should play a role in their financial health. Specifically, “cost effective care” and “emotional/personal support resources” were ranked at the top of the list.
Again, when it comes to small business health benefits, it can be difficult to provide extras. One way to help create a sense of financial stability for your employees is tooffer financial education. This can be personalized to each business (and each worker), helping to empower your employees to take charge of their own finances and give them control to manage their spare cash.
A New Approach: Consumerized Benefits
One of the most effective ways to provide small business health benefits for your employees (but also control costs) is to consumerize your benefits package. This means that you designate an amount of tax-free dollars per month to each employee and then give them the power to choose their own health plan.
Following this approach allows for ultimate personalization of small business health benefits. From high-deductible plans to platinum level coverage, each employee can choose what works best for his or her family. Consumerized health benefits cancome in many forms, so be sure to educate yourself on all of the available options before making a decision.
Conclusion
Perhaps the most important takeaways of this survey is that employees enjoy being a part of the conversation. By allowing workers to have a say in their small business health benefits, you are letting their voices be heard and giving them room for the personalization requested by the participants of this survey.
[Source: Clarryfieng Health]
