ACA Workplace Wellness Initiatives

In order to ensure the success of the Affordable Care Act, a portion of the program was created to encourage workplace and community wellness programs. Billions of dollars have been made available to support community and workplace initiatives in setting up and maintaining programs to encourage healthy lifestyles. This effort is intended to reduce healthcare costs, combat chronic disease, and increase worker productivity.

Currently, it is believed that over 13% of the workforce is afflicted with a chronic condition and this rate is expected to rise in the coming years. Many of these conditions including obesity, diabetes, and depression can be aided by the implementation of a healthier lifestyle. As 60% of Americans have health insurance benefits through their company, a workplace wellness program creates a win-win for business and employee alike.

Workplace wellness programs have been proven to provide a return on investment of over 3:1 when implemented properly and managed consistently. Often, employees are more motivated by regular incentives such as rewards for consistent improvement than from opportunity alone. Programs are also proven more successful when ownership and management take a lead role in the adoption and implementation of wellness programs.