There are many different types of corporate wellness programs designed with the goal of creating happier and healthier employees. Corporate wellness is considered important for encouraging more productivity in the workplace, cutting down on health care costs, and reducing employee absenteeism. When employees are at their optimal health and free of stress, a better quality of work generally takes place. Corporate wellness programs come in many forms, from in-house fitness centers and wellness education to employee assistance programs and supplemental health benefits.
The most common corporate wellness programs include wellness conducted by human resources representatives. Employees are encouraged to lead healthy lifestyles at work and during personal time. Managers often encourage employees to participate in sports and outdoor activities. In addition, corporate wellness specialists can facilitate better choices for employee meals by replacing vending machines filled with sodas and candy with healthier break room foods and spring water machines.
Some companies institute employer-sponsored assistance programs (EAPs) to provide free counseling and support services to employees. This is especially important for companies in which employee turnover and stress are major causes of productivity shortages. Employee assistance programs can provide telephone counseling, anger management, stress reduction, massage therapy, and even drug and alcohol rehabilitation if needed. Often, employees who have problems would rather turn to an EAP counselor than talk to a manager. This makes employee assistant programs a vital aspect of corporate wellness programs.
Many companies also offer supplemental health insurance coverage to employees as part of corporate wellness programs. These supplemental wellness plans may include access to alternative medicine, chiropractic care, nutritional and weight loss support, and other programs not typically covered under standard medical insurance programs. Very often, supplemental programs like this are inexpensive and can be purchased directly by employees.
Corporate wellness programs that include on-the-job fitness centers or access to free gym memberships are growing in popularity with many organizations. With employees working long, stressful hours, and managing personal responsibilities, it can be difficult to find time to work out. Corporate-sponsored fitness centers and gyms provide convenient access to exercise during normal working hours. This encourages all employees to pursue healthier lifestyles and reduce stress at work, which can lead to happier employees.