For many men, taking care of theirhealth often falls behind work and family obligations. But new researchsuggests employers have an opportunity to change that and improve workforcehealth, productivity and engagement in the process.
A recent eHealth survey of more than 900 men found that 42%skipped recommended medical care in the past year, while 82% said theyprioritize their family’s needs over their own health. Sixty percent said theytend to put off medical care unless a loved one encourages them to seektreatment.
Those findings should be a wake-upcall for employers. Preventive care can help identify health issues before theybecome serious and expensive, yet many men are delaying routine screenings,annual physicals and mental health care.
One of the biggest issues is men’sperception of costs, with 33% saying they have delayed care due to costconcerns.
Education can help overcome thoseconcerns. Employers can regularly remind workers about the preventive servicesavailable through their health plans, including annual wellness exams,cholesterol and blood pressure screenings, cancer screenings, mental healthbenefits and dental and vision care.
Men may also need encouragement toprioritize screenings. The eHealth study found that only 26% of men ages 30 andolder knew that colonoscopy screenings are now generally recommended beginningat age 45. Awareness of recommended prostate screening timelines was alsolow.
Mental health is another area whereemployers can make a difference. Men have historically underutilized behavioralhealth services, despite high rates of stress, anxiety and depression.
Employers can encourage utilization byreminding workers that counseling, employee assistance programs and telehealthservices are confidential and covered under their health plans. Research hasfound that employer-sponsored mental health programs can improve productivityand reduce absenteeism while delivering measurable returns on investment.
Routine dental and vision exams shouldalso be part of any workplace wellness strategy. Oral health problems areassociated with chronic health conditions, while untreated vision and hearingissues can affect quality of life, productivity and overall well-being.
What employers can do:
- Promote annual wellness exams and preventive screenings during benefits communications.
- Consider offering rewards or recognition for completing health screenings or participating in wellness activities.
- Provide clear explanations of no-cost or low-cost preventive services.
- Send reminders during Men’s Health Month, Father’s Day and open enrollment.
- Organize lunch-and-learn sessions or distribute informational materials about the importance of preventive care.
- Encourage employees to establish a relationship with a primary care physician.
- Promote mental health benefits, employee assistance programs and telehealth services.
- Offer flexible scheduling or paid time off for medical appointments. Include dental, vision and hearing exams in wellness campaigns.
- Train managers to support work-life balance and normalize taking time for preventive care.
Encouraging preventive care today canhelp reduce future medical costs, improve workforce productivity anddemonstrate that an organization values the well-being of its employees andtheir families.