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Survey Suggests PPACA's Wellness Provisions Will Provide Boost to Wellness Programs
Most of the PPACA’s wellness provisions do not take effect for a number of years. In fact, one of the key provisions, which increases the allowable premium discounts, rebate or other rewards employers may offer employees who participate in wellness programs, does not begin until 2014. Even with the legislative changes still far off, employers have already indicated their intent to expand wellness programs. As part of its study, MBGH surveyed 1,300 employers to gauge their intentions and perspectives concerning the PPACA. It found that 60% of employers are likely or very likely to create or expand their wellness programs as a direct result of the PPACA’s incentive provision. 78% of employers already agreed or somewhat agreed with the statement that the costs of the health care reform law make it more important than ever that employers keep their workers healthy, and motivated to adopt healthy lifestyles. This demonstrates a recognition among employers of the importance of their employees’ health to the success of their companies.
The recent survey also displayed some of the confusion surrounding the implementation of health care reform for employers. While most employers have begun educating employees about the new law, 38% said they have not decided what to communicate to employees and 6% said they do not plan to inform employees about the law. Larry S. Boress, president and chief executive of MBGH, attributes this to employers’ uncertainty and confusion surrounding health care reform and its new rules.
Gregory C. Keating authored this entry.