The Role of Wellness in Health Care Reform
Health care reform is quickly becoming a hot-button issue. Where do workplace wellness programs fit in the debate?
1. Healthy Workforce Act
Reintroduced to Congress earlier this year, the Healthy Workforce Act would provide a tax credit to businesses that offer health improvement programs and encourage healthy workplaces. Read more about Iowa Senator Tom Harkin’s role in the Healthy Workforce Act.
http://harkin.senate.gov/blog/?i=4d931ef6-d529-4d45-920e-1e4f7eb82655
2. Supply and Demand
Because we engage in unhealthy behavior, we have a high demand for health care, which drives up insurance premiums. Decreasing our demand using wellness programs will help lower costs.
3. Prevention, Prevention, Prevention
Half of our annual health care costs are attributed to preventable behaviors – tobacco use, inactivity, and poor eating habits. Educating on prevention techniques through wellness program will decrease chronic disease and overall health insurance costs.
4. Do Your Research
Many of us go to the doctor for minor aches, pains, and sicknesses. Sometimes, doing your own research on your conditions before visiting the doctor can prevent costly trips. Be smart about consuming your doctor’s time and medical resources.
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