The right preventive care at every stage of life helps people stay healthy to live happy and productive lives that lower health care costs for everyone. Unfortunately, many people are still unaware of the access to free preventive care services available to them through their health plan. According to the CDC, American’s use preventive services at about 50% the recommended rate. That means that each year half of people are missing the chance to potentially prevent chronic diseases that are responsible for the five leading causes of death in the U.S.
Can you imagine what the roads would look like if 50% of drivers didn’t get oil changes, or didn’t replaced tires and brake pads? Cars would be broken down and skidding all over town.
What Can We Do?
Create awareness and action by promoting the importance of having a primary care provider and recommended preventive care by:
- Adding an annual preventive visit to your wellness program incentive.
- Marketing campaigns that attract attention, share a relevant message that employees can identify with and give them the action step to make their appointments.
- Promote various preventive benefits available throughout the year through print, email and video media.
Employee health problems do more than drive up health care costs, they also impact productivity and drive down the bottom line. A solid communication plan that integrates all employee benefits and programs can help to educate and increase employee’s awareness of early detection.