Keeping employees healthy is good for business

As national interest in health care reform continues to escalate, major employers, such as Target, have wisely positioned themselves to have their voice heard in the ongoing debate, especially as lawmakers cast about for innovative solutions. In the case of Target, the company has made a series of health related moves in recent weeks, which make it easier for employees to get and stay healthy, is offering new wellness tools, is looking to leverage information technology and has entered into new partnerships.

The company partnered with RedBrick Health to pilot a wellness program that includes advocates who can assist employees with health related matters. The program was designed to ensure employees get the most out of the health and wellness programs offered through Target. As a result, health advocates are available to support pilot program participants with any issue related to health, including benefits and associated claims, identification of the appropriate medical care, health coaching and use of online tools to get and stay healthy. Target also provides cash incentives for eligible pilot program participants who complete biometric screenings, health assessment questionnaires and preventive care visits and, if necessary, recommended coaching programs that are intended to help team members reach their personal health goals.

The company also created a new Target Health & Wellness Web site, which provides such tools as online health coaches, a personal health record, a health risk assessment, and information from leading industry experts on a variety of health topics. The company is also a founding member of a group created earlier this year called Alliance to Make US Healthiest. The non-partisan organization was founded by leaders of federal, state and local public health agencies, companies and nongovernmental organizations to facilitate partnerships between national and grassroots efforts, foster innovative actions, and connects individuals and organizations to spark a nationwide social movement to make the United States the healthiest nation in a healthier world.