Q7. Some wellness programs reward workers for participating in health-promoting activities such as weight loss classes or smoking cessation programs, whereas other programs make rewards contingent on employees meeting certain benchmarks, such as lowered body mass index. Are outcomes-based programs effective and ethical?

Thought:

With the introduction of healthcare reform, employers are being forced to determine creative solutions for the healthcare affordability agenda. Escalating costs, double digit renewal increases are threatening the basis fro continued operations within the U.S. By inviting employees to the table as true partners in the organization’s healthcare affordability agenda, employers are providing employees with choice when it comes to their contributions for health care benefits. Employees are now able to elect to be financial partners with their employers or health partners. By electing to be a health partner, an employee is agreeing that they will meet specific health goals and/or engage in behaviors that contribute to an overall less expensive health experience allowing both the company and the organization to thrive in challenging economic times.

It is the opportunity for each individual to make a personal choice on how they elect to partner with their employer that makes this strategy both effective and ethical.