Worksite wellness programs have been around for quite some time. In my discussions with brokers and employers I continue to hear a mixed bag of success stories versus languishing programs with low participation. I do think cracking the code on wellness programs is important, for two reasons. First, these programs have the potential to improve the overall health care of a given population and reduce health care cost. And second, it will be beneficial to brokers because it is PPACA-proof. In fact, employers can benefit directly from some of the wellness provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
I believe there are two key approaches that can contribute to making wellness programs more effective and a must-have in a broker’s product toolkit. These approaches are first, implement wellness as a seamless part of a comprehensive benefits program and second, understand clearly that one size does not fit all.
