It’s rare to find a benefit that’s good for employees, employers and the bottom line. But that’s exactly why you should consider offering biometric screenings, health fairs and educational events at your organization.
Biometric health screenings measure blood pressure, A1C levels, cholesterol levels and body mass index to help employees understand their risk for potentially life-threatening health issues. Plus they can be part of health fairs that promote practical ways to live a healthier lifestyle and build a culture of wellness at your organization.
Why Offer Biometric Screenings?
- Promote early detection. Regular biometric screenings help identify health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol before they become severe.
- Encourage healthier lifestyles. When employees are aware of their health metrics, they are more likely to adopt healthier behaviors, such as improving diet, increasing physical activity and regular medical check-ups.
- Reduce health care costs. A report by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans determined that most North American employers saved between $1 to $3 in their overall health care costs for every dollar spent on an employee wellness program. And the risks of three of the five most costly out-of-pocket health conditions—diabetes, obesity and heart disease—can be reduced through lifestyle changes identified at health fairs.
- Increase productivity and reduced absenteeism. Healthier employees are more productive and take fewer sick days. According to a Health Enhancement Research Organization study, more than 90% of business leaders say that promoting wellness can affect employee productivity and performance.
Setting Up Health Fairs & Educational Events
Workplace health fairs and educational events can be educational, enlightening and even fun. Vanderbilt Health not only offers biometric screenings and immunizations at these health fairs, but the team also offers in-person or virtual educational events on nutrition, stress management, exercise and other health-related topics that can help employees make healthier lifestyle choices.
These occasions can also include well-being events such as CPR training, fitness challenges, healthy cooking demonstrations, stress-relief stations with chair massages and relaxation techniques, and even individual consultations with nutritionists, fitness trainers or wellness coaches.
Driving Attendance at Workplace Health Events
Of course, workplace health fairs and educational events are only effective if your employees attend them. Start your communications campaign with clear and concise messaging—explain the benefits of participating in the health fair and the specific activities available. Use various communication channels such as emails, employee text, intranet, posters and social media. Start early and send frequent reminders. And don’t forget to engage leadership to enhance credibility and encourage attendance.
Resources From Vanderbilt Health
Vanderbilt Health Employer Solutions is a one-stop shop for building a healthy team. The team offers onsite vaccines, testing and biometric health screenings; health coaching and education; expert presentations at workplace health fairs and educational events; and more. It can even help promote employers' health fairs. Learn more about how Employer Solutions is building a culture of health that’s good for everyone.
