Next to salary, medical and dental benefits are a top reason employees accept a job offer. Yet, many employees aren’t using their benefits to their full advantage.
Benefit utilization helps everyone involved. With utilization, employees live a healthier and more productive lifestyle and companies can save money by earning lower group premiums.
Here are 3 ways to encourage benefits utilization in your company:
1. Lower Costs for Healthy Employees
Employees respond positively to incentives when it comes to their health. Try offering premium discounts to employees who meet health standards. Such incentives will encourage employees to see their dentist and doctor for an evaluation.
And don’t forget to emphasize the importance of preventive care! Even if employees have healthy teeth, a dentist appointment is still valuable. Not only is dental disease nearly 100% preventable, but good oral health affects overall health, too. More than 90% of systemic diseases can be detected at a dental appointment.
2. Pay for Healthy Behavior
The cost invested in employee wellness is worth it. Healthier employees = happier and more productive employees. Here are some ways to bring health into the workplace:
• Award prizes like gift cards for healthy habits, such as regular checkups, keeping a food diary or tracking activity.
• Bring in a health coach for external motivation.
• Provide healthy snacks.
• Pay for a gym membership.
3. Make it a Game
Gamification is becoming a popular way to encourage utilization. Have employees earn “points” for every healthy behavior they engage in, whether it’s making an appointment, going to the gym or buying healthy groceries. When employees earn enough points, let them cash out for prizes.
If you don’t have time to create your own game, there are several programs and apps that can assist.
Have questions about your group plan? Contact us today!