Written by: Ben Morley | Read time: 3.5 Minutes

At BSI, we recognize the importance of proactive health management, especially when it comes to addressing chronic conditions that significantly impact both healthcare costs and employee productivity. As the midyear claims review for clients with July 1 benefit renewals approaches, it’s an ideal opportunity to analyze claims data and identify potential chronic disease markers, such as obesity. This proactive approach allows employers to take early steps in improving workforce health and mitigating rising healthcare costs.

As a benefits consultant, I have witnessed firsthand how chronic conditions—particularly obesity—drive up healthcare expenses while negatively affecting employee well-being and productivity. Personally invested in my own health, I prioritize nutrition as a key factor in both physical and mental well-being. By encouraging healthy food choices, I believe we can inspire positive changes that enhance both individual health and organizational performance.

The Mid-Year Claims Review: A Key Opportunity
The mid-year claims review offers an invaluable opportunity to assess how well employees are managing chronic conditions and to identify trends or areas where additional interventions may be needed. By leveraging claims data during this review, employers can make informed decisions about benefits adjustments, wellness initiatives, and preventive care strategies. Identifying potential health risks early on can help employers create tailored programs that address specific needs, resulting in better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

The BSI Approach: Supporting Employee Nutrition and Well-being
As a benefits consultant responsible for ensuring the success of the benefits plans in my portfolio, my team works to develop comprehensive initiatives and strategies that prioritize health based on claims data. Our goal is to empower employees with the tools and resources they need to take control of their health and prevent chronic conditions. Key components of our approach include nutrition education, incentivized preventive screenings, and wellness programs that promote healthier lifestyle choices.

Some of the innovative programs we’ve implemented include:

1. Nutrition Education: Through monthly newsletters and employer-sponsored health seminars, we share actionable insights on the importance of nutrition in preventing chronic diseases. These resources cover everything from meal planning tips to how small dietary changes can have long-term positive effects on health.
2. Incentivized Preventive Screening: We support employees by offering incentives for preventive screenings, which can help identify early-stage chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. These screenings can help employees catch potential issues before they become more severe, improving overall health outcomes and reducing long-term healthcare costs.
3. Wellness Programs: BSI has also implemented employee wellness programs that focus on sustainable lifestyle changes. These programs include fitness challenges, mental health support, and nutrition workshops. By fostering a culture of wellness within the workplace, employers can reduce absenteeism and enhance productivity.
4. Plan Design Enhancements: We collaborate with insurance carriers and telemedicine platforms to enhance benefit plans by integrating virtual nutrition counseling and wellness services. One notable example is ConnectCare3, which offers comprehensive health navigation services, including access to expert nutritionists who provide personalized guidance to help employees make healthier food choices and reverse chronic conditions.
5. Telemedicine & Virtual Support: As remote work becomes more common, telemedicine has become a vital resource. BSI has partnered with providers offering telemedicine nutrition counseling, allowing employees to receive personalized virtual consultations with nutritionists. This service enables employees to make informed decisions about their diet and lifestyle, improving their overall well-being without the need to take time off for in-person appointments.

A Call to Action
Employers have a critical role to play in reversing chronic health conditions by implementing programs that promote nutrition, preventive care, and overall wellness.

Investing in programs like ConnectCare3, telemedicine services, and wellness initiatives provides proactive solutions that support employees in managing chronic conditions and making healthier decisions. These investments not only reduce healthcare costs but also enhance employee well-being, ultimately benefiting both employees and employers in the long term.

https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/overweight-obesity