{"id":614,"date":"2020-01-02T09:49:38","date_gmt":"2020-01-02T16:49:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/?p=614"},"modified":"2026-03-17T14:23:58","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T20:23:58","slug":"before-you-begin-a-wellness-program","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/","title":{"rendered":"Begin a Wellness Program: Questions Brokers Need to Know Before Hand"},"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\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#What_should_brokers_and_consultants_know_before_beginning_a_workplace_wellness_program\" >What should brokers and consultants know before beginning a workplace wellness program?<\/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\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#What_questions_should_brokers_answer_before_beginning_a_wellness_program\" >What questions should brokers answer before beginning a wellness program?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#1_What_is_the_difference_between_a_health_contingent_program_and_an_outcomes-based_program\" >1. What is the difference between a health contingent program and an outcomes-based program?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#2_How_do_I_help_employers_decide_whether_or_not_to_begin_a_wellness_program\" >2.&nbsp;How do I help employers decide whether or not to begin&nbsp;a wellness program?<\/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\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#3_If_an_employee_qualifies_for_a_wellness_incentive_during_the_prior_year_but_the_employee_opts_out_of_insurance_coverage_for_the_upcoming_year_%E2%80%93_is_the_company_legally_bound_to_honor_the_incentive\" >3. If an employee qualifies for a wellness incentive during the prior year, but the employee opts out of insurance coverage for the upcoming year \u2013 is the company legally bound to honor the incentive?<\/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\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#4_How_popular_are_outcomes-based_programs\" >4.&nbsp;How popular are outcomes-based programs?<\/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\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#5_If_a_company_has_never_done_wellness_should_they_begin_with_an_outcome-based_wellness_program\" >5.&nbsp;If a company has never done wellness, should they begin with an outcome-based wellness program?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#6_Should_weightbody_sizeBMIbody_fat_be_used_as_an_outcome-based_standard\" >6.&nbsp;Should weight\/body size\/BMI\/body fat be used as an outcome-based standard?<\/a><\/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\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#7_As_a_broker_why_should_you_bother_with_a_good_employee_wellness_program_for_your_clients\" >7.&nbsp;As a broker, why should you bother with a good employee wellness program for your clients?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#8_As_a_broker_should_you_encourage_a_carrier-based_wellness_program_What_are_the_pros_and_cons\" >8. As a broker, should you encourage a carrier-based wellness program? What are the pros and cons?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#9_How_can_you_cut_through_the_wellness_marketing_fluff_and_make_an_informed_wellness_vendor_decision\" >9.&nbsp;How can you cut through the wellness marketing fluff and make an informed wellness vendor decision?<\/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\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#10_How_can_you_identify_the_clients_most_ready_to_begin_a_wellness_program\" >10.&nbsp;How can you identify the clients most ready to begin a wellness program?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#What_are_the_next_steps_after_deciding_to_begin_a_wellness_program\" >What are the next steps after deciding to begin a wellness program?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/before-you-begin-a-wellness-program\/#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>What should employers do before starting a wellness program?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"executive-summary\" style=\"font-size:16px\">Before starting a wellness program, employers must define clear goals, secure leadership support, and understand the health needs of their workforce. Successful programs begin with data, realistic expectations, and a long-term commitment rather than quick wins. Planning upfront helps ensure the program is fair, well-communicated, and designed to produce measurable health and cost outcomes.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Note: This blog is based on data from 2014-15 but it was reviewed and updated in 2024 and still pertinent in helping you begin a wellness program. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-should-brokers-and-consultants-know-before-beginning-a-workplace-wellness-program\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_should_brokers_and_consultants_know_before_beginning_a_workplace_wellness_program\"><\/span>What should brokers and consultants know before beginning a workplace wellness program?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When you begin a wellness program, your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bbgbroker.com\/employee-benefits-broker-vs-consultant\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">role as a broker or consultant<\/a>, has probably grown in recent years. Your clients want wellness and you want to provide them with what they want. However, you may not know the answers to many of the toughest wellness questions.<\/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\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Begin a Wellness Program: Questions Brokers Need to Know Before Hand\" class=\"wp-image-105646\" style=\"width:550px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-800x450.png 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-questions-should-brokers-answer-before-beginning-a-wellness-program\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_questions_should_brokers_answer_before_beginning_a_wellness_program\"><\/span>What questions should brokers answer before beginning a wellness program?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We have the answers! WellSteps works with clients (brokers, consultants, and wellness experts) all over the world and many are asking the same questions. <strong>When you begin a wellness program, here are the answers to tough wellness questions you need to know.<\/strong> We have compiled answers to 10 of the most frequently asked questions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-what-is-the-difference-between-a-health-contingent-program-and-an-outcomes-based-program\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_What_is_the_difference_between_a_health_contingent_program_and_an_outcomes-based_program\"><\/span><strong>1. What is the difference between a health contingent program and an outcomes-based program?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8220;Outcomes-based&#8221; is the term that preceded &#8220;Health contingent.&#8221; Brokers and consultants commonly say &#8220;outcomes-based&#8221; so this is the term we use at WellSteps. But the truth is that they basically mean same thing and are used interchangeably.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/outcomes-based-wellness-programs\/\">Outcomes-based Wellness Programs: An Example from the Real World<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-nbsp-how-do-i-help-employers-decide-whether-or-not-to-begin-nbsp-a-wellness-program\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_How_do_I_help_employers_decide_whether_or_not_to_begin_a_wellness_program\"><\/span><strong>2.&nbsp;How do I help employers decide whether or not to begin&nbsp;a wellness program?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Every worksite is different. Each has their own work culture and leadership style. &nbsp;The decision to implement a wellness program should be based on whether or not a wellness program makes sense as a business strategy for that client. You need to understand the <a href=\"https:\/\/hbr.org\/2010\/12\/whats-the-hard-return-on-employee-wellness-programs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">pros and cons of having a wellness program <\/a>and the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20241105095827\/https:\/\/www.rand.org\/pubs\/research_reports\/RR254.html\" rel=\"nofollow\">research that heavily supports them. <\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">You can also dig deeper by asking these four questions about the workplace in question. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Are they concerned with the cost of employee health care? <\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Do they need to improve employee morale? <\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Do they have leadership that will support wellness? &nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Does the C.F.O. understand the pros and cons of having a wellness program? <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CUSTOMER-STORIES-1024x576.png\" alt=\"How do I help employers decide whether or not to begin\u00a0a wellness program\" class=\"wp-image-104698\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CUSTOMER-STORIES-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CUSTOMER-STORIES-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CUSTOMER-STORIES-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CUSTOMER-STORIES-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CUSTOMER-STORIES-800x450.png 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CUSTOMER-STORIES.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If the answer to all four of these questions is &#8220;yes,&#8221; that is a green light to begin a wellness program!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/top-corporate-wellness-companies-corporate-wellness-programs-partners\/\">Top 18 Corporate Wellness Programs and Companies<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-if-an-employee-qualifies-for-a-wellness-incentive-during-the-prior-year-but-the-employee-opts-out-of-insurance-coverage-for-the-upcoming-year-is-the-company-legally-bound-to-honor-the-incentive\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_If_an_employee_qualifies_for_a_wellness_incentive_during_the_prior_year_but_the_employee_opts_out_of_insurance_coverage_for_the_upcoming_year_%E2%80%93_is_the_company_legally_bound_to_honor_the_incentive\"><\/span><strong>3. If an employee qualifies for a wellness incentive during the prior year, but the employee opts out of insurance coverage for the upcoming year \u2013 is the company legally bound to honor the incentive?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The key phase in this question is \u201clegally bound.\u201d Is the company legally bound? No. However, the point of laws such as the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthcare.gov\/glossary\/affordable-care-act\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Affordable Care Act<\/a>, HIPAA, ERISA, etc. is to legislate \u201cfairness,\u201d which is another way of saying \u201cbe nice to your employees.\u201d Although the company may not be legally bound, offering another incentive, such as paid time off or something similar, can go a long way in recognizing employee wellness efforts and boosting morale&#8211;even if they are no longer using company benefits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a lot of wellness benefits beyond health care cost reduction. &nbsp;If an employee opts out of health care coverage, but still participates in the wellness program, <strong>the company could still see improvements in productivity, absenteeism, recruitment, and turnover. <\/strong>&nbsp;Beginning or engaging in a wellness program can also provide a powerful boost to employee morale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-nbsp-how-popular-are-outcomes-based-programs\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_How_popular_are_outcomes-based_programs\"><\/span><strong>4.&nbsp;<\/strong><strong>How popular are outcomes-based programs?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This question is best answered by a report entitled \u201cCapturing the Value of Health and Productivity Programs.\u201d <a href=\"https:\/\/www.proquest.com\/openview\/36a61fa9498ba3bd96710bd38cf291ab\/1.pdf?pq-origsite=gscholar&amp;cbl=52465\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">This report found <\/a>that tobacco use was being used as an outcome to track in 54% of worksites in 2014 and that it was projected to increase to 71%. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This report also found that biometric driven outcomes-based programs were used 26% of the time in 2014, but were projected to increase to around 68% in 2015\/16. Put another way, the use of biometric outcomes as a reward criteria is projected to increase 2.5x.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"720\" height=\"540\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Growth.jpg\" alt=\"begin a wellness program\" class=\"wp-image-616\" style=\"width:720px;height:540px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Growth.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Growth-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Outcome-based incentive programs are more popular than ever. Done right, they can help employees improve health. Done wrong, they will destroy employee morale. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/wellsteps-PLUS\">WellSteps PLUS is a tool<\/a> that helps track outcome-based and helps organizations do it right. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/wellsteps-tlc\">Therapeutic Lifestyle Change<\/a> (TLC) is the best disease management program we have ever seen!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/wellsteps-PLUS\">WellSteps PLUS is a Simple But Powerful Way to Manage Population Health<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-nbsp-if-a-company-has-never-done-wellness-should-they-begin-with-an-outcome-based-wellness-program\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_If_a_company_has_never_done_wellness_should_they_begin_with_an_outcome-based_wellness_program\"><\/span><strong>5.&nbsp;If a company has never done wellness, should they begin with an outcome-based wellness program<\/strong>?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The success of a wellness program hinges greatly on the organizational culture, which is a direct reflection of leadership. Generally, diving straight into an outcome-based wellness program isn&#8217;t advisable from the get-go. While outcome-based programs have their importance, they often come with a slew of rules that can complicate matters and detract from the enjoyment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An employee&#8217;s initial encounter with wellness initiatives shouldn&#8217;t feel like deciphering complex legal jargon. It&#8217;s essential to ease into it. Consider implementing at least a year of preparatory wellness programming before introducing an outcomes-based approach. This allows for a smoother transition and sets a strong foundation for future success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/15\/workplace-health-promotion-program\/\">8 Workplace Health Promotion Program Examples That Work<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-nbsp-should-weight-body-size-bmi-body-fat-be-used-as-an-outcome-based-standard\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Should_weightbody_sizeBMIbody_fat_be_used_as_an_outcome-based_standard\"><\/span><strong>6.&nbsp;<\/strong><strong>Should weight\/body size\/BMI\/body fat be used as an outcome-based standard?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There is substantial emotional baggage associated with body size. <strong>I cannot more emphatically state that I wish no measure of body size would ever be used as an outcomes-based standard.<\/strong> Wellness programs that use body size upset&nbsp;good people by telling them they are fat when they already know it. That is not what they need to hear and it does not really help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-1-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Should weight\/body size\/BMI\/body fat be used as an outcome-based standard\" class=\"wp-image-105647\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-1-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-1-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-1-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-1-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-1-800x450.png 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-1.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-7-nbsp-as-a-broker-why-should-you-bother-with-a-good-employee-wellness-program-for-your-clients\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_As_a_broker_why_should_you_bother_with_a_good_employee_wellness_program_for_your_clients\"><\/span><strong>7.&nbsp;<\/strong><strong>As a broker, why should you bother with a good employee wellness program for your clients?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are 3 good reasons why wellness is a strategy that should be used by every broker that wants to grow his or her book of business by beginning a wellness program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Companies with effective wellness strategies have superior financial performance.<\/strong> Michael O\u2019Donnell said \u201cEmployers who develop excellent wellness programs also understand how to manage core business such that revenues and profits grow.\u201d Having a wellness program does not cause better financial performance but the association is pretty strong. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4697959\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Companies that have effective wellness programs<\/a> outperform the S&amp;P 500.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Brokers who offer wellness to their clients strengthen client relationships and grow their book of business at the same time.<\/strong> A senior executive in a very large brokerage firm stated that brokers at his firm who do the best job of helping their clients adopt wellness strategies have nearly doubled their new business sales.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Carriers offer lower rates to companies with a well-designed wellness strategy.<\/strong> Many brokers have seen insurance carriers&nbsp;charging&nbsp;lower rates for those employers that offer a comprehensive wellness strategy. These lowered claims come from reduced administrative fees charged by carriers because they know there will be less work and cost with a healthy employee population.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/01\/start-wellness-program\/\">10 Questions to Ask Before You Start a Wellness Program<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-8-as-a-broker-should-you-encourage-a-carrier-based-wellness-program-what-are-the-pros-and-cons\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_As_a_broker_should_you_encourage_a_carrier-based_wellness_program_What_are_the_pros_and_cons\"><\/span><strong>8. <\/strong><strong>As a broker, should you encourage a carrier-based wellness program? What are the pros and cons?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Insurance carrier wellness programs are generally just marketing strategies, although there are a few exceptions.&nbsp;&nbsp;One of the pros of beginning a carrier-based wellness program is that it is often bundled with other services. This makes it easier for the broker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Insurance carrier wellness programs are generally just marketing strategies, although there are a few exceptions.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>It is important to note that the cost of carrier wellness programs is baked into the premium so it is invisible, but it is not free. In fact, your clients are likely already being charged for the program whether they use it or not. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-2-1024x576.png\" alt=\" you encourage a carrier-based wellness program\" class=\"wp-image-105648\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-2-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-2-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-2-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-2-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-2-800x450.png 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-10-Best-Ways-of-Improving-Employee-Retention-and-Satisfaction-2.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The biggest con of all is that when a client changes insurance carriers, the wellness program and all data associated with it are lost.&nbsp; <strong>There is also not one published study documenting the effectiveness of a carrier-based employee wellness program<\/strong><em>.<\/em> Some publications may be coming but published evidence is pretty sparse at this point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the end of the day, most insurance carriers are solely focused on processing claims. If they do offer wellness services, they are more likely to be marketing efforts than they are viable population health management strategies. &nbsp;If insurance carrier wellness programs were truly effective, there would be no need for wellness vendors like WellSteps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/white-label-wellness-private-label-wellness\/\">White Label Wellness Programs (Private Label Wellness): Pros and Cons<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-9-nbsp-how-can-you-cut-through-the-wellness-marketing-fluff-and-make-an-informed-wellness-vendor-decision\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_How_can_you_cut_through_the_wellness_marketing_fluff_and_make_an_informed_wellness_vendor_decision\"><\/span><strong>9.&nbsp;How can you cut through the wellness marketing fluff and make an informed wellness vendor decision?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are 3 questions, in short, you can ask that can help you make an informed wellness vendor decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Do they have an app?<\/strong> If a vendor does not have an app, there is a good chance the rest of their IT infrastructure is behind as well.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Is their solution supported by published, peer-reviewed evidence? <\/strong>A white paper does not count because it can be dressed up as scientific looking propaganda.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Have they worked with brokers in the past?<\/strong> Brokers work hard to keep their clients in their book of business and they will only partner with a wellness vendor if they are confident the vendor will help their employer groups experience success. &nbsp;If a wellness vendor is not working with brokers, it&#8217;s a good sign their employer groups are not happy.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-10-nbsp-how-can-you-identify-the-clients-most-ready-to-begin-a-wellness-program\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_How_can_you_identify_the_clients_most_ready_to_begin_a_wellness_program\"><\/span><strong>10.&nbsp;<\/strong><strong>How can you identify the clients most ready to begin a wellness program?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Look for the companies with the most involved and active senior leaders. A company with an engaged and committed leader is more likely to have engaged and committed employees. <strong>To build a foundation of trust with their employees, leaders should model behaviors they want from employees. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, a project WellSteps completed with<a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220812193506\/https:\/\/about.kaiserpermanente.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"> Kaiser Permanente<\/a> proves the point. And, there was a noticeable impact of leadership support on participation. In workplaces with strong leadership support, participation rates exceeded 70% of all employees.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"720\" height=\"540\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/leadership.jpg\" alt=\"leadership results\" class=\"wp-image-617\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/leadership.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/leadership-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>But those with weak leadership support only averaged 45% participation. In the workplaces with strong leadership support, more employees reported that they improved at least one health behavior (98% vs 65%). &nbsp;In short, if a client has strong leadership support, they are more likely to be ready for wellness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2026\/01\/22\/unlocking-the-secrets-to-a-successful-wellness-program-for-your-workforce-2\/\">Unlocking the Secrets to a Successful Wellness Program for Your Workforce<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-are-the-next-steps-after-deciding-to-begin-a-wellness-program\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_next_steps_after_deciding_to_begin_a_wellness_program\"><\/span>What are the next steps after deciding to begin a wellness program?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you begin&nbsp;a wellness program, knowing the answers to tough wellness questions can help you become a more <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2025\/04\/23\/best-employee-benefits-brokers-for-wellness-programs\/\">successful broker<\/a>. &nbsp;As a trusted adviser, your clients are expecting you to provide them with an effective employee wellness program. So, stay informed, keep asking questions, and you will be able to do just that! We can help you <a href=\"http:\/\/wellsteps.com\/demosignup\">get started with a free demo<\/a> right here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/demosignup\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1092\" height=\"637\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA2.png\" alt=\"gin a Wellness Program\" class=\"wp-image-104676\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA2.png 1092w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA2-300x175.png 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA2-1024x597.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA2-768x448.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1092px) 100vw, 1092px\" \/><\/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-1772838134344\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How do I start a wellness program?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">One of the most important indicators for success is senior leader support. Firstly, make sure you have a senior leader on board that will actively participate in the wellness program. We also recommend creating a wellness committee to give employees a voice and help make decisions. Then, you will need to assess the worksite health culture and employee behaviors. Use this information to create wellness goals and know your focus areas. You can do this with the help of a vendor, like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/explore\/\">WellSteps<\/a>, or on your own. For a full breakdown and guide visit our post on &#8216;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-wellness-programs-successful\/\">How to Design Wellness Programs That Are Successful&#8217;. <\/a><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1772838155681\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What are the key elements of a successful wellness program? <\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A corporate wellness program is\u00a0designed to create a workplace culture centered around holistic well-being.\u00a0In order to achieve this there are important steps to follow. Here are a few key elements in constructing a successful program:<br><br>1. Gain Support from Management<br>2. Assemble a Wellness Committee<br>3. Designate a Coordinator<br>4. Hold Wellness Committee Meetings<br>5. Appoint or Recruit Team Leaders<br>6. Assess the Worksite Health Culture<br>7. Assess Employee Behaviors<br><br>After these elements are established, good employee wellness\u00a0program includes activities designed to support better employee health. For example, some of these key elements often include:<br>&#8211; medical screenings<br>&#8211; incentives for healthy behaviors<br>&#8211; behavior change interventions<br>&#8211; health coaching<br>&#8211; fitness<br>&#8211; nutrition<br>&#8211; weight loss programs<br>&#8211; social support<br>&#8211; gamified wellness challenges and much more<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773778961043\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Should companies start with an outcomes-based wellness program?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Companies that are new to wellness should generally avoid starting with a strict outcomes-based program. Instead, many organizations benefit from introducing foundational wellness initiatives first, such as education campaigns, health challenges, and culture-building activities. Beginning with supportive programming helps employees become comfortable with wellness initiatives before transitioning to outcome-based incentives tied to measurable health improvements.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773778961900\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What factors determine whether a wellness program will succeed?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The success of a wellness program depends on leadership involvement, employee participation, and a structured approach to behavior change. Organizations with visible leadership support and active wellness committees often achieve higher participation rates and stronger health improvements. Programs that include data tracking, behavior-change campaigns, and consistent communication are more likely to produce lasting results.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Here are answers to the questions that every broker or consultant should know before they help a customer begin a wellness program. \u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"neve_meta_sidebar":"","neve_meta_container":"","neve_meta_enable_content_width":"","neve_meta_content_width":0,"neve_meta_title_alignment":"","neve_meta_author_avatar":"","neve_post_elements_order":"","neve_meta_disable_header":"","neve_meta_disable_footer":"","neve_meta_disable_title":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[31,19,11],"tags":[641,58,85,82],"class_list":["post-614","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-brokers","category-workplace-wellness","category-worksite-wellness","tag-begin-wellness","tag-best-wellness-programs","tag-how-to-start-a-wellness-program","tag-start-a-wellness-program"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.1 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Begin a Wellness 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