Denelle Morais | Manager | Marketing & Communications | Bestmed Medical Scheme | mail me |
At the heart of every successful organisation is a healthy, motivated workforce. In today’s competitive job market, where talent retention, productivity and innovation are crucial, organisations must seek new ways to gain a competitive edge.
Happy and healthy employees not only set them apart as employers of choice, but set them up for long-term success as well.
In fact, healthcare benefits have a huge impact on an organisation’s capacity to attract top talent and reduce turnover rates and, in the post-pandemic world we live in, job seekers value and prioritise health benefits almost as much as the hybrid or work-from-home options. With the integration of wellness programmes that also support mental health, this focus on ‘duty of care’ not only translates to fewer sick days and less risk of health conditions, but also reduces overall healthcare costs.
Cultivating a more dynamic & resilient workforce
Preventative care benefits are at the forefront of employees’ priorities. By offering or contributing to medical aid, this allows employees access to quality medical care which can prevent illnesses before they occur. This proactive approach may keep employees healthier and happier, and may cultivate a more dynamic and resilient workforce, as it alleviates one less stressor. In addition, medical aids usually offer added programmes as benefits.
Maternity benefits such as comprehensive maternity care programmes go a long way in supporting working moms. These programmes do not only ensure the health and wellbeing of both mother and child, but also increase employee loyalty and job satisfaction. By providing such benefits, businesses send a clear message that they value and support employees beyond the 9 to 5 workday, which in turn, fosters a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture.
In a country where chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, and HIV and AIDS continue to rise and pose serious health challenges, a medical aid which offers disease management support programmes is no longer just beneficial – it is crucial. The availability of such programmes in the workplace via medical aid have made a difference in managing symptoms, reducing hospital admissions and improving quality of life.
For employees battling these conditions, having access to this level of support can be life-changing, offering hope and stability in times of need. Furthermore, support programmes can extend beyond just medical treatment. They include psychological support, nutritional advice and lifestyle management, which are all important for holistic wellbeing.
The return on investment outweighs the costs
The benefits of providing healthcare benefits or medical aid extend far beyond the individual employee.
For businesses, the return on investment outweighs the costs. Businesses that do so, strengthen their operations by achieving employee satisfaction, reduced turnover rates and a stronger employer brand that attracts top talent. Moreover, healthy employees are productive employees. By investing in their health and wellbeing, businesses will see a significant productivity improvement and, ultimately, profitability.
As South African businesses continue to evolve, the importance of providing healthcare benefits cannot be emphasised enough. It is a strategic investment that yields a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce. By prioritising preventative care, maternity benefits and disease management support programmes, businesses may not only improve the lives of employees, but also set a new standard for corporate responsibility and success in the modern workplace.
Embracing the provision of comprehensive healthcare benefits is not just a matter of health, it is a matter of business success.
