Worksite wellness programs can impact absenteeism by creating a healthier workforce. An analysis of absenteeism studies shows savings from reduced absenteeism can offset the cost of a worksite wellness program. An average savings of $5.00 for every $1.00 spent were shown. Days lost due to illness or disability were reduced due to wellness programs (Healthy Workforce 2010, 2001).
Presenteeism is reduced performance and productivity due to impairment by health risk factors, illness, or mental illness. Examples such as unmanaged diabetes, migraines, or asthma can significantly impact productivity, especially when looking at the employee population as a whole. Research has found lost productivity due to employee or family health problems cost U.S. employers $1,685 per employee per year, or $225.8 billion annually (Leading by Example, 2005).