To combat the rise in chronic disease rates and the subsequent impact on the health-care system and benefits costs, there’s been a shift in thinking by employers, health professionals and benefits providers towards prevention rather than just treatment. “There is a sense of urgency for preventative measures,” said Derek Weir, manager of group benefits solutions at […]
Employers looking to enhance productivity could consider introducing a new program for workers that would encourage them to take a nap each day. The idea has caught on in the United States with organizations like Google Inc., Ben & Jerry’s and the House of Representatives all offering employees the opportunity to get a little shuteye […]
With 3.4 million Canadians living with the disease, diabetes is taking a toll on Canadians and the country’s health system. In addition to the human toll, there’s a significant economic impact. The disease cost the Canadian health system $12.2 billion in 2010, a figure expected to rise to $16.9 billion by 2020. As well, Irene […]
Dr. Milan Gupta has a heartfelt message for plan sponsors, managers and employees: Cardiovascular disease is a problem, and it’s one that’s not going away any time soon. “Every seven minutes, a Canadian dies of [cardiovascular disease] and it is the leading cause of death in women. It kills more women than all cancers combined,” […]
Seven years ago, sales of generic drugs were having a significant impact on drug plan costs. Those savings, however, are declining as overall pharmaceutical costs are climbing once more. Between 2010 and 2020, estimates suggest the demand for specialty drugs, including biologics, will grow by 600 per cent to more than $12 billion, according to […]
It’s hard not to feel at least some sympathy for an Alberta dental graduate coming out of school with $400,000 in debt. In response to a recent story on BenefitsCanada.com about complaints about Alberta’s sky-high dental fees, the graduate noted the significant financial pressures resulting not only from school debts but also the cost of […]
After having a chance to digest the parliamentary budget officer’s report projecting that a universal pharmacare program could represent $4.2 billion in savings for Canada, some believe it’s time to end the debate and take action. Elizabeth Kwan, a senior researcher at the Canadian Labour Congress, certainly believes so. “We need an all-out, all-Canadian effort to put […]
Two-thirds of Canadians are tracking their health and well-being using either a mobile app or smart device, according to new research by Canada Health Infoway. The study, which surveyed more than 4,000 Canadians, found that among those who do use technology to track their health and well-being, 59 per cent are employed and 41 per cent […]
In the past, quotes for psychology services in an employee benefits plan were nominal, especially compared to other paramedical benefits, such as massage therapy. However, we’re now taking pause and reconsidering all new data, which suggests millennials have a propensity to make full use of the mental-health resources available to them. Consider that over the […]
The debate over standup desks has been raging since a recent study found negative health impacts for employees who stand all day. But what about the other health and productivity benefits of being in a more active position at work? One the one hand, a study by the Texas A&M Health Science Center showed increased use […]