For many men, taking care of their health often falls behind work and family obligations. But new research suggests employers have an opportunity to change that and improve workforce health, productivity and engagement in the process.
A recent eHealth survey of more than 900 men found that 42% skipped recommended medical care in the past year, while 82% said they prioritize their family’s needs over their own health. Sixty percent said they tend to put off medical care unless a loved one encourages them to seek treatment. One of the biggest issues is men’s perception of costs, with 33% saying they have delayed care due to cost concerns.
Those findings should be a wake-up call for employers. Preventive care can help identify health issues before they become serious and expensive.
Screenings, Mental Health and Wellness: Where Education Matters Most
Education can help overcome those concerns. Employers can regularly remind workers about the preventive services available through their health plans, including annual wellness exams, cancer and cardiovascular screenings, mental health benefits and dental and vision care.
Awareness gaps are part of the problem. The eHealth study found that only 26% of men ages 30 and older knew that colonoscopy screenings are now generally recommended beginning at age 45, and awareness of prostate screening timelines was similarly low.
Mental health is another opportunity area. Men have historically underused behavioral health services, despite high rates of stress, anxiety and depression.
Employee-sponsored mental health programs have been shown to improve productivity, reduce absenteeism and deliver measurable returns on investment.
Dental and vision exams matter too, since oral health programs are linked to chronic conditions and untreated vision or hearing issues can affect productivity and well-being.
What Employers Can Do
- Promote annual wellness exams and preventive screenings during benefits communications.
- Consider offering rewards or recognition for completing health screenings or participating in wellness activities.
- Provide clear explanations of no-cost or low-cost preventive services.
- Send reminders during Men’s Health Month, Father’s Day and open enrollment.
- Organize lunch-and-learn sessions or distribute informational materials about the importance of preventive care.
- Encourage employees to establish a relationship with a primary care physician.
- Promote mental health benefits, employee assistance programs and telehealth services.
- Offer flexible scheduling or paid time off for medical appointments.
- Include dental, vision and hearing exams in wellness campaigns.
- Train managers to support work-life balance and normalize taking time for preventive care.
Encouraging preventive care today can help reduce future medical costs, improve workforce productivity and demonstrate that an organization values the well-being of its employees and their families.
