Wellness at work is key to productivity

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), globally, chronic diseases cost companies and economies $2 trillion in the form of absenteeism. In terms of healthcare costs, the WHO estimates that chronic disease makes up approximately 75% of it globally, with a majority of cases being cardiac problems.

The recommended solution to this are workplace wellness programmes, which is also the theme for this year's World Heart Day held by the World Heart Federation. Workplace wellness is offered by some employers through a combination of educational, organisational, and environmental activities designed to support the health of employees.

Though the concept has picked up in developed countries, in India, however, according to workplace wellness consultants the concept is yet to see widespread acceptance.

“Unlike in developed countries, in India workplace wellness means only providing health insurance, medical check-ups and seminars. Whereas workplace wellness is a continuous processes that takes place throughout the year. The aim of which is to provide each employee with required medical attention and also to motivate them to indulge in the best health practices,” said Isabel Paul, Managing Director, South India, Human Dynamic.

According to her, the biggest problem with the functioning of this programme is a lack of continuity. “The purpose of workplace wellness is not to start an awareness campaign, but to train each employee in such a way that he is able to take care of his health by himself. Apart from that consultants will be available for the him to approach if needed,” she said.

“Corporates are taking disease management seriously, especially due to the huge losses incurred due to problems such as absenteeism. Though late, we too have realised how the health of an employee affects his productivity and the need for investment in it. However, we are yet to reach a structured system that exists in the West,” said Priya Chetty-Rajagopal, of Stanton Chase.

According to Nagendra Swamy, Director, Manipal Hospital, awareness levels are rising among corporate houses. “During the past three years we have been seeing many cases where corporates are taking the healthcare of their employees seriously. Many are keeping track of the health histories of their employees. Some of them have even started dedicated healthcare centres, a system of health graphs and training,” he said.

Though number of companies taking this concept seriously are few, there is a gradual increase in the numbers. “On an average only 10 per cent are implementing these programmes so far. But the fact that more employers and employees are realising the importance of good health we allow for more development in this area,” said Dr Swamy.