Establishing a culture of proactive healthcare screening and promoting wellness programmes is becoming increasingly important for organisations to reduce sickness and long-term absences. Regular health screenings and annual physicals can aid individuals in identifying health issues at an early stage, leading to better outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.
Maintaining a healthy and productive workforce is a critical objective for any organisation, and promoting regular health screenings for employees can contribute significantly to achieving this goal. Some companies may already have in-house health screening resources and practices. However, motivating employees to come on board can be challenging for employers, due to potential issues such as inconvenience, privacy issues, fear of the unknown, or simply a lack of awareness.
Here are some ways companies can encourage employees to participate in workplace health screenings:
Communicate the importance of preventative care
To help employees understand the benefits of participating in these screenings, employers can explain how the screening can help detect health problems early, prevent complications, and improve overall health and wellbeing. This can be done through internal communications, workplace health ambassadors, or managers. Tip: highlight the short-term benefits, as we tend to undervalue benefits that we’ll see in the long-term future.
Address privacy and stigma concerns
The fear of discrimination is a common concern for employees when it comes to participating in health screenings – perhaps they are worried that employers may see their conditions as a productivity liability or additional business expense; or they may feel uncomfortable or self-conscious about sharing personal health information with colleagues. Employers can take steps to address this fear and create a more inclusive environment for all employees. For one, they can assure employees that their health information will be kept confidential and will not be shared with other employees or managers. They can also offer optional arrangements for employees with disabilities or chronic health conditions to ensure they can participate in health screenings, for example alternative screening methods or providing support services. Above all, beyond just health screening, companies can implement non-discriminatory policies and practices that prohibit discrimination based on health status.
Make it easy
Employees are more likely to participate in health screenings if they are easy to book and convenient to access. Firstly, providing free or low-cost screenings can encourage participation. Companies can empower their people to schedule screenings at a time that is convenient for them, such as before or after work, during lunch breaks, or on weekends. Consider offering on-site screenings (with an option to go to an offsite clinic), so that employees don’t have to travel to a medical facility. Companies can also consider paid time-off for employees who go for screening.
Provide incentives
Incentives can be a powerful motivator for employees to participate in health screenings. Offer incentives such as gift cards, paid time off, or reduced insurance premiums to employees who complete the screening. The incentives don't have to be expensive; even small rewards can be effective in encouraging participation – for example, something fun like an ice-cream or drink voucher. Incentives can also create a sense of healthy competition and conversation amongst employees, encouraging them to take part in the screening.
Lead by example
Leadership sets the tone for the rest of the organisation, and companies can embrace the culture of health from a management level. Firstly, managers can help promote a culture of wellness by participating in health screenings themselves. Because they are in direct contact with their subordinates and tend to know them well, they can be a great form of internal communications. When it comes to providing the necessary resources and support to ensure the success of the health screening incentives.
Offer personalised support
Some employees may be hesitant to participate in health screenings due to fear, lack of knowledge, or cultural barriers. Offering personalised support can help address these concerns. For example, companies can offer support groups and counselling services to employees who may need additional emotional support. For companies with a diverse workforce, provide information and resources in multiple languages to cater to employees.
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Need to book a health screening?
If you are an employer looking to promote a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce, consider implementing a workplace wellness program that includes regular employee health screenings. Link Doctor offers corporate health screening packages that can be tailored to fit your budget and requirements. Our rates start from S$150 for Basic Screening to S$9,900 per person for Executive Health Screening. Learn more about our health screening packages here.
