Bupa has made a number of changes to its health assessments to help employers tackle the leading causes of sickness absence.
The insurer said it has made these changes in response to businesses saying their priorities are to reduce the risk of long-term illnesses, tackle musculoskeletal and mental health conditions and promote positive lifestyle choices for employees.
Bupa has strengthened the mental health and wellbeing element of its assessments, to identify stress trigger points more easily.
The Complete and Advanced health assessments also now include the option of a musculoskeletal assessment which aims to keep employees fit, active and injury-free.
Lifestyle coaching sessions are now offered with the Advanced health assessment, in order to support and guide people to achieve their health goals.
Most Bupa health assessments now include access to GP Anytime HealthLine, which provides 24/7 telephone access to a nurse or GP, acknowledging the feedback from businesses that they want a healthcare provider to be there for their employees when they need them.
Bupa Health Assessments also provide a thorough analysis of an individual's health and fitness levels. The team puts together a picture of their future health risks and creates a personalised action plan to help them to work towards their health goals.
David Hynam, managing director, Bupa Health Clinics said: "The initial response to our enhanced health assessments has been really positive. The musculoskeletal assessment in particular has been very popular. Many people have found that it identified a problem they were vaguely aware of but didn't realise the extent to which it was affecting them, or that anything could be done to improve it.
"Our clients are pleased that we have listened to their feedback and improved our products in line with their objectives, particularly with a focus on mental health, musculoskeletal conditions and helping employees to achieve their health goals.
"We know that three quarters of people make positive lifestyle changes following a Bupa health assessment[1], so with these improved products we're looking forward to making that number even higher."
