Analyzing 20 years of short-term disability claims, Cigna revealed some trends that could help employers understand how to structure an integrated wellness and absence management program in order to improve workforce productivity.
“As employers increase their focus on managing lost work time, they need to understand how disability is changing and what opportunities they may have to intervene and improve experience,” said Dr. Thomas Parry, CEO, Integrated Benefits Institute.
Claims related to obesity, treatment for skin cancer and herniated disc surgery increased significantly from 1993 to 2012.
The company also found a reduction in absences related to depression coupled with an increase in prescribed anti-depressants, and believes that may signal a hidden problem.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that American businesses lose an average of 2.8 million work days each year due to unplanned absences, costing employers more than $74 billion.
More on workforce healthcare on NED.
NED is a companion site within Penton’s Manufacturing and Supply Chain Group.
