Written by Chicago Tribune
Companies find inexpensive programs can control health care claims
Jerry Benish wasn't looking for a medal when he finished Camcraft Inc.'s fun run and lost 10 pounds in the company's "Biggest Loser" contest.
He knew the biggest winner could be Camcraft itself. As director of human resources at the Hanover Park-based components manufacturer, Benish closely tracks health care expenses.
Along with moving to self-funded insurance to save costs, Camcraft has found that wellness programs can help control rising premiums by reducing claims among its work force. Last quarter, 150 of 187 employees didn't miss a day of work.
"If people are healthy, they're not incurring claims," said Jim O'Donnell, a Camcraft vice president. "That's where wellness comes in. We want to try to prevent catastrophic claims."
Like a growing number of companies aiming to keep workers fit, Camcraft offers health screenings for high blood pressure and cholesterol, and provides a fitness room, monthly nutrition newsletters and healthful choices in its vending machines. It also offers on-premise physicals and pays program fees for Weight Watchers if employees attend all meetings. It covers 75 percent of membership costs at a local health club, Benish said.
The result: a boost in productivity.
"If there are fun things you can do, it engages people, and enthusiasm spreads," O'Donnell said. "It's a good thing."
Chicago Tribune
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