When it comes to healthcare, the focus is often on patients – how they can access quality care and manage their health. However, there is another crucial player in the healthcare landscape that often goes overlooked: employers. Employers hold a significant stake in the health of their workforce. Not only do they provide health insurance benefits, but they also have a vested interest in maintaining a healthy and productive workforce. Yet, many employers face challenges caused by low-quality healthcare costing them big – both financially and in terms of employee well-being.

The High Cost of Low-Quality Healthcare

According to the Integrated Benefits Institute, employers in the United States spend over $880 billion annually on healthcare for their employees.[1] This staggering cost is largely due to a fragmented and inefficient healthcare system that often fails to prioritize quality. Employers are forced to foot the bill for expensive treatments and procedures while also dealing with the productivity losses caused by employees’ poor health. In fact, according to a report by the Bipartisan Policy Center, it’s estimated that employers lose $225.8 billion each year in productivity due to employees’ chronic health conditions.[2]

The Impact on Employees

Not only does low-quality healthcare lead to financial burdens for employers, but it also significantly impacts their employees. When employees are unable to access timely and appropriate care, their health suffers, and they may experience a decline in productivity and job satisfaction. Furthermore, employees may also have to deal with the added stress of navigating a complex healthcare system, which can be overwhelming and time-consuming. This can result in decreased morale and increased absenteeism due to the need for medical appointments or sick days.

The Need for Quality Healthcare

In order to mitigate these challenges, employers must prioritize quality healthcare for their workforce. This means providing access to comprehensive, coordinated care focusing on prevention and disease management. Employers can also play a role in advocating for healthcare reform that prioritizes quality and value-based care. By working with policymakers and industry leaders, they can push for changes that will improve the overall healthcare system and benefit both employers and employees. Furthermore, investing in employee wellness programs and promoting a healthy workplace culture can also positively impact the overall health and well-being of employees. This can lead to reduced healthcare costs and increased productivity.

NAOHP: Empowering Occupational Health Providers to Deliver High-Quality Care

While the responsibility to provide quality healthcare ultimately falls on employers, it can be daunting without proper support and resources. That’s where the National Association of Occupational Health Professionals (NAOHP) can play a crucial role. Here’s how:

Understanding Employer Perspectives: Through regular surveys and research, NAOHP gathers insights into employers’ needs and perspectives regarding occupational healthcare. This information not only helps members understand their clients better but also enables them to tailor their services to meet specific client needs. Delivering Comprehensive Solutions: NAOHP offers various resources and tools to its members to support them in delivering comprehensive occupational healthcare solutions. These include access to updated industry standards, best practices, and continuing education opportunities to enhance the knowledge and skills of providers.

Engagement with Quality Improvement Initiatives: NAOHP actively engages with quality improvement initiatives in the occupational healthcare industry. This includes collaborating with other organizations and advocating for policies that promote evidence-based practices and safety standards. Collaborative Partnerships: NAOHP establishes partnerships with other organizations and industry leaders to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among occupational health providers. This helps members stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field and improves their ability to provide quality services.

Employee Well-being: Besides supporting employers and providers, NAOHP also focuses on promoting employee well-being. This includes educating employees about their rights and responsibilities regarding occupational health and safety, as well as advocating for policies prioritizing worker health and safety. Investing in Quality Healthcare: A Win-Win for Employers and Employees Quality healthcare is essential for a healthy and thriving workforce. Employers have an important role in promoting and advocating for high-quality care through initiatives such as those offered by NAOHP.  At NAOHP, we specialize in providing resources and support for occ med providers who work with employers to improve the health and well-being of their employees. If you’re an occ med provider looking to level up your skills and expertise, consider joining NAOHP membership and collaborating with us on driving positive changes in the healthcare industry. Together, we can create a healthier future for employees and employers alike.

References
“Good Health Is Good Business,” Bipartisan

Policy Center, accessed October 17th, 2023, https://bipartisanpolicy.org/report/good-health-is-good-business/

“Poor Health Costs US Employers $530 Billion and 1.4 Billion Work Days of Absence and Impaired Performance According to Integrated Benefits Institute,” Integrated Benefits Institute (IBI), accessed October 17th, 2023, https://news.ibiweb.org/poor-health-costs-us-employers-530-billion-and-1-4-billion-work-days-of-absence-and-impaired-performance