{"id":104557,"date":"2022-03-30T13:56:06","date_gmt":"2022-03-30T19:56:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/?p=104557"},"modified":"2026-04-21T17:09:24","modified_gmt":"2026-04-21T23:09:24","slug":"county-wellness-programs-better-government","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Ways County Wellness Programs Create A Better Government"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Why_should_we_focus_on_wellness_in_the_public_sector\" >Why should we focus on wellness in the public sector?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Why_do_county_wellness_programs_contribute_to_better_government_performance\" >Why do county wellness programs contribute to better government performance?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#How_do_county_wellness_programs_improve_government_outcomes\" >How do county wellness programs improve government outcomes?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Boosts_Morale\" >Boosts Morale<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Increases_Productivity\" >Increases Productivity<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Reduces_Health_Risks\" >Reduces Health Risks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Lowers_Health_Care_Costs\" >Lowers Health Care Costs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Think_Twice_Before_Skipping_That_Eye_Exam\" >Think Twice Before Skipping That Eye Exam<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Better_Recruitment_and_Retention\" >Better Recruitment and Retention<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#What_does_an_effective_county_wellness_program_look_like\" >What does an effective county wellness program look like?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Provide_the_Essentials\" >Provide the Essentials<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Get_Your_Team_Involved_in_County_Wellness_Programs\" >Get Your Team Involved in County Wellness Programs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Have_Some_Fun\" >Have Some Fun!<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Provide_Connection_Opportunities\" >Provide Connection Opportunities<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Provide_Movement_Opportunities_in_County_Wellness_Programs\" >Provide Movement Opportunities in County Wellness Programs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Keeping_The_Active_In_Activity\" >Keeping The Active In Activity<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Remember_the_Importance_of_Balance\" >Remember the Importance of Balance<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#What_key_takeaways_should_county_leaders_understand_about_wellness_programs\" >What key takeaways should county leaders understand about wellness programs?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#County_wellness_programs_create_a_better_government_by\" >County wellness programs create a better government by:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#What_do_effective_county_wellness_programs_look_like\" >What do effective county wellness programs look like?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote executive-summary is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-width:1px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);font-size:17px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p style=\"font-size:20px\"><strong>Executive Summary<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group executive-summary\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p style=\"font-size:18px\"><strong>How do county wellness programs improve government performance?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"executive-summary\" style=\"font-size:16px\">County wellness programs improve government performance by supporting employee health, reducing burnout, and lowering healthcare costs. Healthier employees are more engaged, more productive, and better equipped to serve the public. Over time, these programs help counties build a stronger workforce and deliver more consistent, effective services to their communities.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-should-we-focus-on-wellness-in-the-public-sector\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_should_we_focus_on_wellness_in_the_public_sector\"><\/span>Why should we focus on wellness in the public sector?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We often focus on businesses in the private sector, but today let\u2019s shift our attention to the public sector. Specifically, we\u2019ll explore how wellness programs for employees in counties, cities, and similar municipalities can create better government from the inside out.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"575\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/pexels-aleksejs-bergmanis-681335-1024x575.jpg\" alt=\"5 Ways County Wellness Programs Create A Better Government\" class=\"wp-image-104560\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/pexels-aleksejs-bergmanis-681335-1024x575.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/pexels-aleksejs-bergmanis-681335-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/pexels-aleksejs-bergmanis-681335-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/pexels-aleksejs-bergmanis-681335-1536x863.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/pexels-aleksejs-bergmanis-681335-2048x1151.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/pexels-aleksejs-bergmanis-681335-800x450.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Organizations are increasingly recognizing the significance of employee wellness. When employees are stressed, unhealthy, and mentally drained, it can exacerbate the challenges they face outside of work, making their job responsibilities feel overwhelming. This often leads to decreased efficiency, presenteeism, and higher absenteeism. The same applies to government bodies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Related:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/18\/workplace-wellness\/\">What Is Workplace Wellness? A Complete Guide<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-do-county-wellness-programs-contribute-to-better-government-performance\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_do_county_wellness_programs_contribute_to_better_government_performance\"><\/span>Why do county wellness programs contribute to better government performance?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Have you ever contemplated all that goes into managing a city or, better yet, an entire county? <a href=\"https:\/\/icma.org\/what-professional-city-town-and-county-managers-do\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Counties manage everything<\/a> from enforcing state laws and collecting taxes to assessing properties and conducting elections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Have you ever thought about all the responsibilities involved in managing a city or an entire county? Counties are tasked with numerous duties from enforcing state laws to collecting taxes. They also are responsible for tasks such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>provide parks and libraries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>assessing properties and overseeing elections<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>manage sewers and emergency management<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>service highways<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>provide police and fire protection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>oversee planning and zoning<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The decisions and actions, or lack thereof, by government officials have a profound impact on their communities<\/strong>. Keeping the people that run our governments healthy and happy is a smart way to keep those impacts positive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Keeping the people that run our governments healthy and happy is a smart way to keep those impacts positive.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>These individuals are responsible for teaching our children, caring for us when we\u2019re ill, assisting us in times of need, and providing services that enrich our lives. <strong>If we desire a happy and productive community, we must ensure that those managing these responsibilities receive the support they need from the counties they serve.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-verse\">\u201cHealthy employees not only have a better quality of life, they also benefit from having a lower risk of disease, illness, and injury, as well as increased work productivity and a greater likelihood of contributing to their communities.\u201d <a href=\"http:\/\/cdc.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">CDC.com<\/a><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/school-wellness-programs\/\">9 Reasons School Wellness Programs Are a Smart School Strategy<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-do-county-wellness-programs-improve-government-outcomes\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_county_wellness_programs_improve_government_outcomes\"><\/span>How do county wellness programs improve government outcomes?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Boosts_Morale\"><\/span><strong>Boosts<\/strong> <strong>Morale<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Encouraging employees to care about their health and providing them access to healthcare will help them feel better.  When people feel better, they\u2019re more inclined to connect and positively contribute to their teams, customers, and communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/what-great-resignation-william-meller\/#:~:text=The%20Great%20Resignation%20is%20an%20economic%20trend%20in,COVID%20pandemic%20ends%20and%20life%20returns%20to%20%22normal.%22\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Great Resignation<\/a> has taught us anything, it\u2019s that workers want to feel cared about. Keeping a person\u2019s overall wellness at the forefront of an employer\u2019s goals is a great way to confirm their value on an individual level. &nbsp;Counties need good people in place, and aiming for high employee morale will help public employees want to stick around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2021\/03\/16\/wellness-remote-workers\/\">6 Strategies for Successful Wellness with Remote Workers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Increases_Productivity\"><\/span><strong>Increases Productivity<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Managing any type of government is complicated and often time-sensitive, making productivity essential (remember that whole <a href=\"https:\/\/mentalhealthfirstaid.org\/news\/essential-self-care-for-essential-workers-on-the-frontlines-of-covid-19\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">essential worker<\/a> part of the pandemic?), and by <strong>providing employees access to services designed to improve all areas of their health can help them perform the important work they do.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20240416004103\/https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/workplacehealthpromotion\/model\/evaluation\/productivity.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">CDC<\/a> website states that \u201c<em>the net effect is that U.S. employers lose more than $225 billion each year in productivity due to employee health problems.\u201d<\/em> However, this is based on information dating back to<strong> <\/strong>2003.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-increase-productivity-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"county wellness programs increase productivity\" class=\"wp-image-104649\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-increase-productivity-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-increase-productivity-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-increase-productivity-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-increase-productivity-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-increase-productivity-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-increase-productivity.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>A 2018 study from the&nbsp;<a href=\"http:\/\/www.ibiweb.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Integrated Benefits Institute<\/a> (IBI), a nonprofit health and productivity research organization, found that \u201c<em>US employers paid nearly $880 billion in health care benefits for employees and dependents. However, illness-related lost productivity costs them another $530 billion per year<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Counties vastly range in size and population, and their offices could have hundreds of workers or only just a few depending on the geographical location. Employee absences cause significant issues in any business.  But for the regions managed under limited staffing and funding, a serious health setback of an employee could have significant impact on a community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>For the regions managed under limited staffing and funding, a serious health setback of an employee could have significant impact on a community.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-programs-increase-productivity\/\">How Do Wellness Programs Increase Productivity in the Workplace?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Reduces_Health_Risks\"><\/span><strong>Reduces Health Risks <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The best way to combat health problems is to prevent them before they start. However, not all health risks are avoidable, and early detection is vital for managing chronic conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Offering a variety of health resources to employees ensures they have the tools to take proactive steps toward their well-being. Additionally, fostering a culture of encouragement and leading by example underscores the importance of good health and highlights the value of utilizing county wellness programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lowers_Health_Care_Costs\"><\/span><strong>Lowers Health Care Costs<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to mitigating health risks, another significant advantage is the reduction in healthcare expenses. Annual physicals, dental exams, and screenings provide valuable insights into one&#8217;s health status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Individuals with access to healthcare and who use it for regular check-ups generally experience better overall health. <strong>Moreover, routine screenings, including eye exams and dental cleanings, play a crucial role in early prevention.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-verse\"><em>Did you know?<\/em> Eye exams are so much more than vision tests. Eyes are a live look into the action of blood vessels and many early signs of diseases appear in them.&nbsp;<\/pre>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/regular-eye-exams-for-employees-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"essential eye exams to detect and prevent diseases\" class=\"wp-image-104637\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/regular-eye-exams-for-employees-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/regular-eye-exams-for-employees-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/regular-eye-exams-for-employees-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/regular-eye-exams-for-employees-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/regular-eye-exams-for-employees-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/regular-eye-exams-for-employees.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Think_Twice_Before_Skipping_That_Eye_Exam\"><\/span><strong>Think Twice Before Skipping That Eye Exam<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>There are actually 22 diseases that show early symptoms in eye exams.  Learn more at the <a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20240623224530\/https:\/\/www.aao.org\/eye-health\/tips-prevention\/surprising-health-conditions-eye-exam-detects\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">American Academy of Ophthalmology<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol style=\"list-style-type:1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Aneurysm<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Brain Tumor<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blood, Tissue, and Skin Cancer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Diabetes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Giant Cell Arteritis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Heart Disease<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High Blood Pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High Cholesterol<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lupus<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lyme Disease<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Medication Toxicities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Multiple Sclerosis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Myasthenia Gravis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rheumatoid Arthritis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sarcoidosis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sexually Transmitted Diseases<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sickle Cell Disease<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sjogren\u2019s syndrome<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stroke<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Thyroid Disease<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vascular Disease<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vitamin A Deficiency<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Better_Recruitment_and_Retention\"><\/span><strong>Better Recruitment and Retention<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Similar to businesses, communities thrive when they prioritize recruitment and retention. It&#8217;s not just about finding the right person; <strong>it&#8217;s about retaining them long enough for their skills to make a meaningful impact.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Recruitment is a complex and time-consuming process. From defining the new role accurately for job postings to reviewing resumes, conducting interviews, and extending offers, it&#8217;s a multifaceted endeavor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once the top candidate is onboard, losing them would mean restarting the entire process, not to mention the training involved. However, retaining the right talent requires more than just financial incentives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Research shows more and more that appreciation consistently ranks above pay when it comes to job satisfaction. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>Recent studies increasingly highlight that appreciation ranks higher than salary in terms of job satisfaction. While monetary compensation may initially attract candidates, <a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20211022005539\/https:\/\/www.tlnt.com\/4-things-more-important-than-money\/\">research consistently demonstrates<\/a> that feeling valued outweighs pay when it comes to job fulfillment. If individuals don&#8217;t feel appreciated in their workplace, they&#8217;re more likely to seek opportunities elsewhere.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-boost-morale-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"mental health support for employees\" class=\"wp-image-104650\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-boost-morale-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-boost-morale-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-boost-morale-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-boost-morale-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-boost-morale-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/wellness-programs-to-boost-morale.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>County wellness programs contribute to the improvement of government operations by enhancing the well-being of employees. An additional advantage is the positive ripple effect that occurs when individuals experience happiness; they tend to share it, attracting more individuals to join a supportive atmosphere. This, in turn, assists in meeting future staffing requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, employees that feel undervalued aren\u2019t likely to promote the same posture. Word of mouth is huge and shouldn\u2019t be dismissed. <strong>If we want to attract and keep great employees, we need a culture that supports their well-being.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.apa.org\/news\/press\/releases\/2016\/06\/workplace-well-being\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">study by the American Psychological Association<\/a>&nbsp;found that, in organizations where employees do not view leadership as committed to their well-being, only 17% would recommend the company as a good place to work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Related:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/02\/10\/health-and-wellness-programs-in-the-workplace\/\">7<\/a><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/02\/10\/health-and-wellness-programs-in-the-workplace\/\"> <strong>Simple Strategies To Integrate Health And Wellness Programs In The Workplace<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-does-an-effective-county-wellness-program-look-like\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_does_an_effective_county_wellness_program_look_like\"><\/span>What does an effective county wellness program look like?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This is such a huge question, but it\u2019s also where county employees can work together to come up with programs designed for the specific needs of the business, helping to make their county wellness program effective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Provide_the_Essentials\"><\/span><strong>Provide the Essentials<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Health Insurance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dental Insurance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Paid Time Off<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Providing these fundamentals to employees is valuable in a multitude of ways because it grants them access to routine care and needs. However, just because people have access to services doesn\u2019t mean they\u2019ll use them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get_Your_Team_Involved_in_County_Wellness_Programs\"><\/span><strong>Get Your Team Involved<\/strong> in County Wellness Programs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Learn what matters to them on both individual and team levels. Different roles come with different challenges so it\u2019s important to implement programs designed around them rather than trying to get them to adapt to something that might be a hindrance rather than an enhancement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What might be vital for one profession could be somewhat useless for another. When team members are encouraged to collaborate, and are given a voice to express their specific needs and wants (within reason), they\u2019re more likely to buy into not just the program, but the company as a whole.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>When team members are encouraged to collaborate, and are given a voice to express their specific needs and wants (within reason), they\u2019re more likely to buy into not just the program, but the company as a whole.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>One of the greatest and underutilized tools for wellness is access to mental health programs.<\/strong> While behavioral health has generally been one of the highest-priced wellness program offerings, things on that forefront are evolving and becoming more accessible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mental and emotional health are leading the wellness movement for a reason:  if people can\u2019t handle their mental and emotional difficulties, the chances of them being able to care for the other areas of their health is highly unlikely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Behavioral therapy taboos are becoming a thing of the past as the world is understanding their importance, and many people are searching for companies that provide this type of support and other non-traditional benefits.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/mental-and-emotional-health-support-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"mental and emotional health leading wellness\" class=\"wp-image-104651\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/mental-and-emotional-health-support-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/mental-and-emotional-health-support-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/mental-and-emotional-health-support-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/mental-and-emotional-health-support-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/mental-and-emotional-health-support-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/mental-and-emotional-health-support.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-verse\">\"70% of employees surveyed feel employers should provide offerings for mental and emotional health, and 54% would like employers to offer caregiver support, among other kinds of non-traditional benefits.\"\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.webmdhealthservices.com\/resources\/whitepapers\/wellbeing-disconnect\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">WebMD<\/a><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;<strong>Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/02\/11\/mindfulness-in-the-workplace\/\"><strong>10 Tips To Implement Mindfulness In The Workplace<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Have_Some_Fun\"><\/span><strong>Have Some Fun<\/strong>!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Who says health and wellness have to be all carrot sticks and 10,000 steps? While that approach might work for some people, or even for a period of time for most, those goals are outdated and let\u2019s be honest\u2026a bit boring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Get creative with your team.<strong> Wellness is so much more than trying to lose weight and finally getting toned. <\/strong>Wellness is about feeling good. It\u2019s about connection, movement, and balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/02\/18\/staff-wellness-activities\/\">16 Staff Wellness Activities for Creating a Healthier Workplace<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Provide_Connection_Opportunities\"><\/span><strong>Provide Connection Opportunities<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Teams that do activities together not related to their work and requires them to work together is a great way for people see each other is a more personable way other than Orlando from accounting or Annie from HR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While they\u2019ll still identify their coworkers by their name and department, chances are they\u2019ll also have a better understanding of that person. Instead of seeing Annie from HR, they might start to think, <em>&#8220;That\u2019s Annie in HR that\u2019s sometimes a little grumpy but man can she solve a puzzle, and I hope everything is going okay with her dad<\/em>.&#8221; &nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When people connect, they reveal their humanity and stop becoming another random name and face, creating more opportunities for compassion and consideration among teams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Creating opportunities for people to get to know their coworkers, as well as their communities, is a <strong>primary way that county wellness programs create a better government.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cook together \u2013 instead of the run of the mill potluck, attend a cooking class<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create together \u2013 paint nights or crafts nights are a great way to enhance connection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Play together \u2013 take a trip to the local outdoor adventure park for some go-carts, air hockey, batting cages and arcade games<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/corporate-wellness-ideas-wellness-activities-wellness-initiatives\/\">18 Corporate Wellness Ideas and Wellness Activities<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Provide_Movement_Opportunities_in_County_Wellness_Programs\"><\/span><strong>Provide Movement Opportunities<\/strong> in County Wellness Programs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>There is much misconception about the word exercise for those that are inactive. Fitness programs and the unrealistic body examples they promote can make people with movement challenges less likely to participate, not because they don\u2019t want to, but because many activities could result in injuries or feelings of inadequacy.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/organize-group-walking-events-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"group walking opportunities\" class=\"wp-image-104652\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/organize-group-walking-events-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/organize-group-walking-events-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/organize-group-walking-events-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/organize-group-walking-events-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/organize-group-walking-events-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/organize-group-walking-events.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>When we frame activities around movement, designed with low impact and realistic goals, we\u2019re more likely to see our less active employees engage with more consistency. This could be as simple as eliminating the term exercise out of rotation and instead focusing on terms like <em>movement<\/em> and <em>active<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Keeping_The_Active_In_Activity\"><\/span><strong>Keeping The Active In Activity<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The biggest point is to put people in spaces where they will automatically want to move around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Give them movement minutes<\/strong> in addition to their breaks where they can take a quick walk outside or at least a few minutes away from their workspace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create team <strong>goals designed toward movement<\/strong> such as contests for tracking active minutes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Incentivize quarterly activities<\/strong> such as hiking a local trail or hosting relay days during good weather months, and in the colder months consider snowshoeing or visiting local attractions like museums and galleries.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/18\/wellness-challenge-ideas\/\"><strong>13 Fun Workplace Wellness Challenge Ideas Your Employees Will Enjoy<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Remember_the_Importance_of_Balance\"><\/span>Remember the Importance of Balance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, don\u2019t forget about one of the most important ways county wellness programs create a better government:  balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The employees that keep our counties running are often tasked with stressful situations, difficult customers, and the stakes are usually high. When people feel their well-being is valued no matter their ranking, they will be better equipped to handle the moments of high stress because they\u2019ll know they\u2019ve got a good support system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>No matter the field of occupation, people need to be able to balance their responsibilities at home versus those in the workplace.<\/strong> There\u2019s a reason people are quitting in a massive exodus and it\u2019s not because they don\u2019t want to work; they just want to be valued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>There\u2019s a reason people are quitting in a massive exodus and it\u2019s not because they don\u2019t want to work; they just want to be valued.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>When people are faced with consistent stress each day and aren\u2019t provided opportunities to seek even basic care like physician and dental checkups, their burnout rate exacerbates and the ticking time bomb of their departure becomes imminent.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/burnout-in-the-workplace-1-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"burnout rates increasing without wellness programs\" class=\"wp-image-104653\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/burnout-in-the-workplace-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/burnout-in-the-workplace-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/burnout-in-the-workplace-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/burnout-in-the-workplace-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/burnout-in-the-workplace-1-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/burnout-in-the-workplace-1.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Turnover is particularly hard in the public sector because so many responsibilities lie in each role. Governments only operate as good as the people they have in place, making wellness programs vital for operation efficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-key-takeaways-should-county-leaders-understand-about-wellness-programs\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_key_takeaways_should_county_leaders_understand_about_wellness_programs\"><\/span>What key takeaways should county leaders understand about wellness programs?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Prioritizing wellness in the municipalities that run everything from the laws we follow to the water we drink is the key to thriving counties and cities. By making sure wellness programs are in place will keep the services we rely on operational, because the fact is that healthy and happy people tend to show up to work, and better yet, they perform well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"County_wellness_programs_create_a_better_government_by\"><\/span>County wellness programs create a better government by:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Boosting Morale<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increasing Productivity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reducing Health Risks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lowering Health Care Costs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Better Recruitment and Retention<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_do_effective_county_wellness_programs_look_like\"><\/span>What do effective county wellness programs look like?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>First, they provide the essentials:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Health Insurance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dental Insurance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Paid Time Off<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>They get teams involved.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t forget to give team members opportunities to customize wellness programs for their specific needs. It\u2019s okay to start with ideas, but make sure to learn about the resources that matter to them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>They have some fun<\/strong>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plan interactive activities<\/strong> like cooking classes or art lessons. These are so effective because they need to be completed within a certain amount of time, teaching teams to work together and learn how to communicate while doing something fun and challenging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Provide opportunities for teams to get up and move<\/strong>. Movement doesn\u2019t have to mean exercise; it can mean taking a few minutes to breathe outside and reflect. For those with active employees, consider joining a community sports league team, or hiring trainers to come and conduct fun workouts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Don\u2019t underestimate the value of balance. <\/strong>When people have an imbalance between home and work, stresses continue to build, making their lives harder to manage, which often results in illnesses, absences, and significantly decreased presenteeism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The WellSteps team has helped thousands of employees improve their health, and we\u2019d love the opportunity to demonstrate to you how we can help you with an employee health program. Schedule a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/explore\/demosignup\/\"><strong>Free Demo<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;and take the first steps toward wellness for your team, your company, and you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/explore\/demosignup\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"752\" height=\"494\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/WellSteps-CTA-4.jpg\" alt=\"wellsteps free demo and wellness programs\" class=\"wp-image-103599\" style=\"width:752px;height:494px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/WellSteps-CTA-4.jpg 752w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/WellSteps-CTA-4-300x197.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/WellSteps-CTA-4-342x225.jpg 342w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773341062890\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How do county wellness programs improve employee health and public service quality?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">County leaders often want to know how county wellness programs affect both employees and the public. When you invest in wellness for county staff\u2014reducing stress, improving physical health, and supporting mental well-being\u2014you create a more stable, focused workforce that can respond better to citizens\u2019 needs. Over time, county wellness programs help reduce burnout in critical roles and improve consistency in public service delivery.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773341083552\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What unique challenges should county wellness programs be designed to address?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">County wellness programs often serve diverse roles\u2014public safety, social services, facilities, administrative staff, and more\u2014each with different stressors and schedules. That means you need flexible program options that work for shift workers, field employees, and office staff alike. A county wellness strategy that respects those differences, while still providing a shared framework, tends to see much higher participation and long-term loyalty.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773341084140\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How can county leaders measure the impact of county wellness programs?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"> To measure the impact of county wellness programs, track participation in campaigns, changes in health risk factors, trends in absenteeism and turnover, and feedback from employee engagement surveys. Many counties also monitor workers\u2019 comp, disability claims, and healthcare utilization to see longer-term outcomes. The more consistently you collect and review data, the easier it is to show that county wellness programs are improving both employee well-being and the county\u2019s bottom line.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773341084992\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What role do incentives play in successful county wellness programs?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"> Incentives can be a powerful way to boost engagement in county wellness programs, especially when employees are juggling demanding public-facing roles. Simple rewards\u2014like points toward wellness gifts, premium differentials, or recognition\u2014signal that leadership values healthy choices and the extra effort to participate. When paired with clear communication and a straightforward tracking system, incentives become an effective lever to keep county wellness programs active year after year.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Today, we&#8217;re focusing those who work for counties to learn why county wellness programs create a better government from the inside 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Over time, county wellness programs help reduce burnout in critical roles and improve consistency in public service delivery.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#faq-question-1773341083552","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/30\/county-wellness-programs-better-government\/#faq-question-1773341083552","name":"What unique challenges should county wellness programs be designed to address?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"County wellness programs often serve diverse roles\u2014public safety, social services, facilities, administrative staff, and more\u2014each with different stressors and schedules. That means you need flexible program options that work for shift workers, field employees, and office staff alike. 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