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To paraphrase Pogo, "We've seen the enemy, and it is us".
Chronic diseases are on the rise in the United States, and the cost to employers is enormous. But many of these diseases can be properly controlled and treated.
Did you know that over 70% of medical claims are due to lifestyle-related factors?
It is also important to remember that over 65% of claims are generated by dependents, so new communication strategies must find a way to effectively reach them.
Did you know that individuals with chronic conditions account for nearly 80% of inpatient hospital visits, and almost 85% of prescription drug use?*
More employers today are willing to invest in disease management and other health improvement strategies. The payoff can be a lowering of the medical cost 'trend line', which can have dramatic impact on the bottom line.
There is a dramatic link between chronic conditions and high claim cost. For example, a claimant classified as 'mildly obese' generates over $1,500 more in annual claims than an average claimant.
The dramatic pace of increase in the percentage of obese Americans is showing itself in our children as well. Nationally, 15% of all children were overweight in 2000, compared to 6% in 1978.**
C.M. Smith can help employers design strategies to address chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and asthma. These strategies are one way to address the 10% of your covered population who account for over 70% of your claim cost.
The business case for 'better health' is compelling. We urge employers to become familiar with the case studies and tools provided through the Partnership for Prevention www.prevent.org.
C.M. Smith also strongly endorses the goals of the Healthy Workforce 2010 initiative http://health.gov/healthypeople.
Employer Incentives for Healthier Employees Many progressive employers are moving beyond the offer of health club discounts to encourage employee (and dependent) adoption of healthier lifestyles. As you can read in the attached article (by Wellness vendor My ePHIT L.L.C.), employers are also creating other incentives such as:
- allowing employees time during the work week to exercise
- sponsoring a health day
- setting up contests
- using a points-based motivation system
- reducing employee's share of premium who live healthier lifestyles
ADDITIONAL RELATED INFORMATION
Documents
Wellness Program Article
995.86 kb
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