Yes, it is very true.  People who are overweight and out of shape miss more days from work, go to the doctor more often, and have lower productivity.  Each time we go to the doctor, our company has to pay a fee.  Every day of work that is missed reduces the productivity of the group and, ultimately, the company, which has a direct impact on everyone's bottom line.  In an effort to provide health care to all employees amidst raising health care costs, the company has to reduce coverage and increase co-pays just to be able to provide coverage. 

The health insurance companies are trying to work with companies to reduce the costs of health care by providing discounts for every qualifying health care initiative provided through the work place for employees.  The challenge is getting the employees to participate.  The good news is that as we become more active, we become healthier, we miss fewer days from work due to sickness, we are more productive, and we save the company money - a win-win all the way around.

Last updated on October 28, 2008 by Jennifer Malocha