While the debate about America’s health care system rages on in the public sector, the business community has been privately pioneering some incredible examples of corporate wellness. Business leaders from Coca-Cola, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Verizon and Walgreens are serving as a huge source of inspiration in the health industry, developing powerful policies and activities designed to support and improve the lives of their employees.
The group on the forefront of this movement is the CEO Council on Health and Innovation, a group of leaders from some of the U.S.’s largest employers (including the ones mentioned above). Together, the companies represented on the CEO Council employee nearly one million people and provide health coverage for more than 150 million individuals. The actions they have taken demonstrate a commitment to wellness that goes well beyond the workplace, and their programs offer a range of initiatives that can serve as inspiration for your own office.
The CEO Council’s most recent report, “Building Better Health: Innovative Strategies from America’s Business Leaders,” provides an incredible overview of the benefits, common challenges, and key imperatives of some of America’s most prestigious companies. It breaks down the wellness initiatives of many of these companies into three areas: at work, in the community, and within the system. The 130-page report is an intimidating read, but the amount of information and ideas you will gain from it will be worth the investment of your time. Head
here to read the full report, or keep reading for a few of our favorite takeaways.
AT WORK: The Coca-Cola Company: Not only does this iconic American brand have a seriously cool office, but it also has
a company culture that makes well-being a key priority. The world’s largest beverage company focuses on offering personalized support, enabling social engagement, providing accessible wellness options, and shifting to an environment that encourages health. From offering spontaneous exercise classes to providing free financial planning services, Coke is able to successfully educate, facilitate and motivate its employees.
IN THE COMMUNITY: Walgreens. By providing easy access to immunizations and healthcare clinics, Walgreens is able to fill many of the gaps in insurance coverage. In fact, Walgreens stores are located within three miles of 63 percent of the all Americans, 75 percent of all African Americans, and 78 percent of all Latinos, with more than two-thirds serving communities in medically underserved areas. Their low-cost and convenient solutions make them much more than your typical neighborhood pharmacy.
IMPROVING THE SYSTEM: Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Blue Cross’ value-based healthcare programs provide employers with the ability to bend costs over time, moving away from the traditional fee-for-service model to arrangements based on the value of the service provided. One of every four of the country’s active physicians accepts BCBS’ value-based payment arrangements, which brings the focus to the patient and creates a system of accountability.
How does YOUR company improve health at work, in the community or within the system? Comment below!