Managing the Corporate Work-Health Culture

Abstract

In an attempt to control health care costs, lost time, and related employee productivity, employers devote many resources to solutions for these problems. But often the solutions are applied independently of one another, possibly in different areas of the company, even though the problems are often related. Recent studies in the disability industry suggest the relationship between health care costs and lost time is closely intertwined. Moreover, work and health are connected and are often affected by the corporate culture. The elements that make up this culture include the amount of control the company has over lost time and health care costs, employee motivation and expectations, the organization’s benefits, corporate health and safety practices, and the company’s capacity to measure lost time. By exploring the elements that contribute to and often encourage employee absences, employers can better direct their resources in the development of a comprehensive absence management plan.