Year-round benefits communication is also critical to the success of any wellness initiative. Open enrollment shouldn't be the only time employers communicate on these topics. Plan to discuss these topics throughout the year to keep employees interested and mindful. A few wellness communication tips, include:

Remind employees that his or her family are the key decision-makers for a healthier life.
Define healthy behaviors and offer incentives that highlight the benefits available to employees such as preventive health screenings, physical exams and immunizations.
Develop a year-round content schedule, including seasonal health issues like ways to stay in shape in the winter, safety for outdoor summer activities and protecting oneself during cold and flu season.
Use a variety of channels to communicate as each employee has personal preferences about how to receive information whether that be printed materials, intranet feature stories, emails, social media content, etc.
Integrate communication efforts with human resource activities, including training, internal communication and mailings from insurance providers.

Finally, employers should price their HDHP competitively and consider contributing to employees' HSAs to help overcome initial financial concerns. The first months in these plans can be concerning for employees and this contribution can be an incentive to move to an HDHP and feel more confident in that choice.

Instant Insights /

The HSA crystal ball: Wellness

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