In addition to health benefits, what is a primary economic outcome of a wellness program?

• A. Lower medical claim costs and improved productivity
• B. All employees stop smoking
• C. No changes in absenteeism
• D. Higher recruitment costs

Answer: (B)

The main economic payoff from a wellness program is lower medical claim costs and improved productivity. When employees engage in healthier behaviors and manage health risks, they tend to use medical services less, which reduces health insurance claims and direct healthcare expenses for the company. At the same time, healthier employees are often present more consistently and perform tasks more efficiently, boosting overall productivity and reducing lost work time. This combination—lower healthcare costs plus higher output—drives the strongest financial benefit.

While smoking cessation is a positive outcome, it isn’t guaranteed for every employee and doesn’t alone capture the broader financial impact across the workforce. Other options suggesting no change in absenteeism or higher recruitment costs don’t align with the typical economic gains associated with well-designed wellness programs.