How to Start a Worksite Wellness Program

Most employers are looking for ways to reduce health insurance premium costs. Employees too would like to reap the benefits of reduced health insurance prices. One of the ways to reduce health insurance costs is to implement a worksite wellness program. Much research has been done to show that successful worksite wellness programs not only save employers money, but also improve the health and morale of their employees. Here's how to start a worksite wellness program.

Things You'll Need

• A set amount of money carved out of the budget.
• An appointed wellness coordinator.
• Possibly an outside contract company to help with implementation.

Instructions

1. Contact your health insurance provider to see if a discount is offered for having a worksite wellness program. Many health insurance companies are now offering discounts on premiums for implementation of wellness programs. They are fully aware that wellness programs are effective at lowering health care costs. If your provider doesn't give a discount, find one that will.

2. Determine a budget for your wellness program based upon any extra cash the company has and the number of employees. Aim for $50-100 per employee per year to begin. If this seems adequate for programming and administration, stick with it. You may need to adjust the amount after reviewing the program each year.

3. Appoint a wellness coordinator. If there is someone within your company that could handle the extra responsibility, appoint them. If there is no one in the company to do the program, consider hiring an outside contractor. Even some local health departments can provide on site worksite wellness programming. The wellnes coordinator should solicit volunteers to for a wellness committee.

4. Along with the wellness coordinator and wellness committee, map out a strategic plan for the wellness program. This should include clear cut goals and objectives of what you'd like to accomplish with the program. It's a good idea to have fiscal goals attached to the program as well. After all, reduced health insurance claims and premiums along with reduced workers compensation claims are a goal.

5. At the end of the year, survey your employees. Find out what they did or did not like about the wellness program. Find out if they have made any positive lifestyle (fitness, nutrition, weight-loss, etc.) changes as a result of the worksite wellness program.

6. Provide incentives. Things like an extra day off, a trip for two, or a day at the spa are great incentive prizes. Employees can be entered into drawings by attending wellness events throughout the year. This will only increase employee morale and productivity.

Tips & Warnings

• Provide ample money to your worksite wellness program. The return on investment is huge!

• Top level management buy-in is absolutely critical. A worksite wellnss program cannot succeed without it.

• Always seek the advice of credible health professionals when shopping for wellness program contractors. Ask for credentials and licenses.