SOURCE: http://gmj.gallup.com CONTACT: The Gallup Management Journal INFORMATION: Editorial and Executive Offices1251 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2350New York, NY 10020888-274-5447
How to change employee behaviors and improve Americans' wellness, one company at a time
March 10, 2010
Companies can't afford to wait around while Washington debates various plans to reduce healthcare costs. And they don't have to, according to two executives. Organizations have plenty of options at their disposal to stem rising costs and instill healthier employee lifestyles right now.
It used to be that people who wanted the best healthcare -- and who could afford it -- booked flights to Europe or the United States. They don’t have to anymore. Geography is no longer relevant when excellent care is globally available -- but engagement is.
Yes, it’s possible -- even amid a full-blown economic recession in which massive layoffs, closing facilities, and declining profits are the norm. Here’s how one hospital turned the budget over to its employees and reaped a windfall.
Medical errors are responsible for injury in 1 out of every 25 hospital patients and perhaps up to 98,000 deaths each year. These events are not only tragic -- they’re costly. An engaged staff can cure this problem.
