Workplace Health Programs

Benefits These programs can lead to change at both the individual and the organization levels, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They can increase healthy behaviors, reduce risks for disease and improve current health among employees. For employers, these programs can benefit employee morale, reduce health care costs and increase productivity and retention.

Workplace health programs might include health education classes; discounted or free access to fitness facilities; health insurance coverage for preventive screenings; a healthy work environment through initiatives such as smoke-free campuses, availability of healthy foods and safe working areas, according to the CDC.

Types of Programs Here are more examples of more workplace health programs and how you can benefit. You might not realize your employer offers such programs, so do your research and see what's available to you. Onsite fitness center. RisePeople.com calls an on-site fitness center the "granddaddy of all corporate wellness program examples." Not only will you save time by not having to commute separately to a gym, but you might be more likely to squeeze in a workout when it's more convenient.

Exercise programs. You might get a discount for certain exercise programs, such as Jazzercise, or classes might even be offered on-site. Smoking cessation. These programs might include lifestyle coaching and counseling on prescription smoking cessation medications.

Stress reduction. Counseling and education about stress can help you get started on a path to eliminating stress at work and home.

Weight loss or nutritional counseling. If you're looking to lose weight or address health issues through diet, these types of services can help you get started. Health screenings and health risk assessments. These offerings can help you catch health conditions early or reduce your risk for developing new conditions.

Rewards or incentives.

Some employers offer rewards or incentives in exchange for utilizing workplace health programs. They could include cash incentives, discounts on your health plan premiums or the ability to earn points that can be redeemed for health-related products or services.