3 Minute Read
People who have diabetes live with the condition every day, even at work. Additionally, those with prediabetes, obesity and other high-risk health issues linked to the disease must also be mindful of and purposeful with their actions (or inactions) on a consistent basis. They face a different set of challenges, which can be overcome with advocacy from their employers. As the fastest growing chronic disease in the world, smart employers know there's a strong business case for helping employees with diabetes stay healthier.
Diabetes is costly – for both individuals and employers. With the associated costs continuing to rise coupled with the behavioral impacts those affected must confront (even when they are on the clock), helping employees prevent type 2 diabetes and manage their diabetes can help them be healthier, stay productive and control medical costs. Incorporating diabetes in an employee wellness program can lower health care costs for them and for businesses. Preventing or delaying diabetes complications also saves money for insurers.
There is also a stigma around diabetes that must be acknowledged in the workplace. Diabetes is one of the most expensive diseases affecting U.S. employers, yet many workers try to keep it a secret, according to a Roche Diabetes Care survey of 500 U.S. adults with the disease. With the concerns that those surveyed had about disclosing their disease, 81% said they would be less likely to hide their disease if their employer sponsored a personalized wellness program to manage their diabetes. Nearly all (92%) stated they would use an employer-sponsored diabetes wellness program if it included both personalized digital coaching and blood sugar tracking.
Employers have the power to cultivate a culture that supports a personalized and authentic approach to health and diabetes care. Maximizing the health and productivity of workers with diabetes by being more aware of common concerns in the workplace can make a big difference.
Small adjustments to the work environment or schedule can:
- Reduce absenteeism and presenteeism (when an employee goes to work despite a medical
illness that prevents full functioning). - Increase productivity, concentration, and energy levels.
- Influence a healthy lifestyle by providing healthier food options at the office tailored to helping diabetic employees maintain blood sugar levels.
- Incentivize employees to take control of their health, resulting in greater loyalty, affinity and gratitude towards their organization (felt by the whole family).
- Reduce the chance of on-the-job injury.
Bottom line according to the CDC: supporting type 2 diabetes prevention and diabetes management is a smart move for employers and insurers.
Join the fight against diabetes during National Diabetes Month throughout November by increasing awareness and education around the disease and supporting friends and loved ones impacted by diabetes.
