Employee Wellness Blog | TotalWellness

How to Measure the Value of On Site Flu Shots

Written by Lisa Stovall | Mon, Jul 16, 2012

As an employer concerned about the health of your employees and your bottom line, wouldn't it be nice to know what type of Return on Investment (ROI) you could expect from your on site flu shot program?  

It is estimated that 10 to 20 percent of the workforce is absent at some point during the flu season, due to the impact of the influenza virus. One of the many benefits of a worksite flu shot program is a healthier workforce. Overall a vaccinated workforce experiences:

  • 13%-44% fewer doctor visits; 
  • 18%-45% fewer lost work days; and
  • 18%-28% fewer days with reduced productivity*
On site flu shot programs generate savings of between $15 and $84 per vaccinated person, or $2.58 per dollar spent on vaccination, that’s a possible savings of up to $4,000 for every averted illness.*

Sample ROI Calculation 

It is important to realize that ROI calculation should be based on the specific characteristics of your company. You should consider increased productivity, direct health costs, incentives offered, and reduced overall absenteeism when calculating ROI. 

Here is a sample formula to measure the financial impact of the flu on your company each year:

For a more detailed analysis, download our free ROI flu shot calculator. The ROI calculator makes it simple to estimate how much money you could save when your employees get flu shots. Enter select variables, such as number of employees and participation rates, and you'll see your return on investment in just a few seconds. 

 *Data from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevention and control of influenza: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).