State and territory governments have decided to act on the health and wellbeing of Australia’s 10 million workers, according to a leading corporate health provider.

Good Health Solutions was recently selected as an approved service provider for the NSW Government’s Healthy Workforce Program.

Through the program, employees of state government departments, councils and non-profit organisations can receive health screenings, health and wellbeing surveys, and influenza vaccinations.

With other states and territories implementing similar programs, the public sector is now acting on workplace health and wellbeing, Good Health Solutions chief executive officer Dr John Lang said.

“With dire predictions about the escalating cost of health care in an ageing population, the government have decided to act,” Dr Lang said.

Through the COAG National Partnership Agreement on Preventative Health, $300 million has been allocated to the Healthy Workers Program.

“It appears there is a growing realisation that prevention needs to extend beyond the reach of the current health care system and into the workplace if it is going to engage large numbers of people in any meaningful way,” Dr Lang said.

In Victoria, the State Government has spent $218 million on its WorkHealth program to deliver health checks and health interventions to the state’s 2.6 million employees.

“The money arose because WorkCover premium payments exceeded claims by $600 million a few years back, giving the State Government an unexpected financial windfall – credit to them for spending it wisely.”

Dr Lang said it was well documented that healthy employees are more productive, have lower rates of industrial accidents and injuries, lower Workcover claims, and less absenteeism.

“There is at least a trend in the right direction, let’s hope it continues,” Dr Lang said.

Workplace health programs:

• Help prevent chronic disease and obesity
• Reduce absenteeism, workplace accidents and injuries
• Reduce the number of insurance and workers compensation claims
• Improve attraction and retention of staff
• Improve productivity and staff morale

GHS provide health and wellness services to NSW Government employees as part of the Healthy Workforce Program and are offering special rates to the whole of state government departments and agencies.

To find out how Good Health Solutions can help your organisation manage staff wellness, increase productivity and reduce workcover claims call 1800 657 644 or visit www.goodhealthsolutions.com.

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