Employees value PMI above bonuses

by Gill Montia

Story link: Employees value PMI above bonuses

Bupa is suggesting that employees are showing an increase in their interest in health and well being, to the extent that the majority value private medical insurance (PMI) above many other employee benefits, including bonuses and flexitime.

In its Health of the Nation report, which is based on an annual survey of the general public’s attitudes and behaviours regarding health and lifestyle, Bupa reports that PMI is regarded as the second most desirable employee benefit, after a pension.

This indicates a growing change in attitude, with 64% of those surveyed agreeing that employers should take more responsibility for their employees’ health and care needs.

Over 60% of employed respondents were also keen for their employers to provide health checks.

In addition, a three in five majority believed that tax incentives should be given to encourage people to take out PMI.

Bupa sees the demand for employers’ contributions to the health of their workforce increasing, because of ever present pressures to improve productivity, reduce absence and manage a workforce that is getting older.

On the issue of an ageing workforce, lifestyle-related health problems such as those caused by obesity and smoking, are likely to be presenting themselves in the workplace more commonly in the future.