Most companies plan to increase the dollar value of the incentives they offer employees to participate in health improvement programs this year, according to a survey by Fidelity Investment and the National Business Group on Health. The average incentive value has steadily grown over the years, from $260 in 2009 to $430 in 2010. In 2011, the average incentive value was $ 460.
76% of companies say they do not know the return on their investment in health improvement programs. 57% of employers agree that incentive-based programs had a better than expected success rate at increasing employee participation.
Last year, 5% of companies required workers to complete biometric testing to be excluded from medical coverage. That number is expected to jump to 9% this year. Last year, 7% of companies required completion of a health risk assessment to be eligible for medical coverage. This year, 10% of companies will require it.
11% of companies have plans to introduce health care advocates this year. Currently, 46% of companies offer access to advocates who help employees find medical specialist and navigate the health care system.
Publication Source: Employee Benefit News, April 2012
Data Source: Fidelity Investments and National Business Group on Health
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