Definition - What does corporate wellness program mean?
Corporate wellness programs refers to programs that companies launch focusing on health and fitness intervention strategies including proper diet and nutrition, a consistent exercise regimen, and ergonomic modifications to enhance quality of life and job performance. Polarizing opinions exist surrounding the efficacy of corporate wellness programs stemming from weak protocol to educate, motivate, and train employees to lead healthy lifestyles. For this reason, an on-site health specialist, or enlistment from an outside agency, can help integrate a corporate wellness plan that suits the needs of the particular business looking to establish the program.
SureHire explains corporate wellness program
Many companies introduce corporate wellness programs as an avenue to temper a growing health crisis where etiological implications including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity are common culprits in the workplace. However, research suggests that imparting motivation to employees to adopt and maintain health and fitness reflects the company’s aim to set a precedent in making corporate wellness a staple in the personal and professional lives of its workforce. The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) furnishes a host of services that are essential aspects to corporate wellness including regular biometric screenings, on-site gym facilities, diet and nutrition seminars, stress management techniques, and weight loss programs.
Many employers hire on-site health specialists to coordinate, develop, and implement corporate wellness strategies that will play to the mutual benefit of improving employees' overall health while, in turn, saving companies money in health care utilization costs. A health care specialist can lay the groundwork necessary in establishing fitness programs, recommending healthy food alternatives, and suggesting ergonomic modifications to equipment or workstations to avoid musculoskeletal disorders. Although corporate wellness programs can be a financial constraint, research studies indicate decreased absenteeism and less medical care costs, offsetting the difference between the investment and upsurge in productivity.
Mounting evidence continues to demonstrate the positive effects linked to corporate wellness programs against rising health care costs due to epidemic health issues. Because participation underlies the success of any corporate wellness initiative, employers must take a dynamic approach in treating health and fitness as synonymous to their business model. Moreover, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establishes guidelines in recognizing health and safety standards; in some cases, levying fines on employers where the workplace environment poses hazards.
