The Christmas break is a critical period for employees to unwind after a busy year. It is an essential opportunity to rest and recharge. For many, it’s a time to step away from the daily grind, reconnect with loved ones, and focus on alleviating stress, recovering mentally, and addressing personal health needs they may have neglected. An Extras health insurance cover allows employees to make the most of this time by providing cover for the costs of healthcare essential services, such as dental care, physiotherapy, and optical check-ups. These services enable employees to return to work healthier and in better spirits, which positively impacts both morale and productivity in the workplace.

The value of preventative healthcare

Preventative healthcare focuses on addressing potential health issues before they escalate. By offering Extras cover, employers could empower their employees to proactively manage their health year-round, rather than waiting for problems to develop. Services such as routine dental check-ups, physiotherapy for muscle stiffness, or regular eye tests might help employees stay healthy and avoid more severe issues in the future.

Beyond personal health benefits, preventative care might also reduce absenteeism and boosts workplace productivity. Employees who feel supported in their health are more likely to be engaged, focused, and motivated in their roles. In this way, investing in preventative health is also an investment in the long-term success of the business.

Maximising Extras cover during the holiday season

Extras health insurance offers a variety of services that employees can utilise during their time off over the holidays. Employers can encourage employees to take advantage of these services by promoting the following key benefits:

• Annual Check-ups: Extras policies help cover routine check-ups, such as dental exams and eye tests. For instance, Navy Health extras policies reset benefit limits on 1 July each year, so employees can maximise their benefits by scheduling their check-ups before this date to ensure they fully utilise their cover.

• Physiotherapy and Massage: Both physically demanding and desk-based jobs can result in tension or minor injuries that go unaddressed throughout the year. Extras cover can include physiotherapy or remedial massage services, allowing employees to address any physical concerns and improve their overall wellbeing.

• Dietitian: With the right level of cover, employees can gain access to dietetic advice and support to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle during the festive season. Whether it’s guidance on nutrition, managing holiday indulgences, or creating balanced meal plans, a dietitian can provide personalised recommendations. This can be especially helpful for employees looking to improve their eating habits, manage specific health conditions, or stay on track with wellness goals during the holidays.

• Optical Benefits: Navy Health’s Extras policies also include optical benefits, with exclusive discounts available for glasses or contact lenses from preferred providers. By updating their eyewear during the holiday break, employees could start the new year with clearer vision and better eye health. You can learn more about our optical providers here. (https://navyhealth.com.au/optical-provider/)

Organisational benefits of offering Extras health insurance

As a HR manager, enhancing employee satisfaction and wellbeing might be a top priority. Offering corporate private health insurance that includes Extras cover is a simple and effective way to demonstrate your commitment to employee health. This not only benefits employees but also might help the organisation by reducing absenteeism, fostering a healthier work environment, and improving overall productivity.

The link between health and productivity

There is a well-established link between employee health and workplace productivity. Healthy employees are generally more engaged, focused, and capable of delivering higher-quality work. On the other hand, poor physical or mental health could lead to increased absenteeism, lower morale, and reduced performance. Extras cover could help mitigate these issues by making preventative healthcare more accessible. For instance, employees who regularly use physiotherapy services are less likely to suffer from chronic issues such as back pain, which can significantly affect productivity.

In this way, investing in Extras health insurance is not just about offering a perk—it’s about creating a more productive and resilient workforce.

Building a culture of wellbeing

Providing Extras cover can help foster a workplace culture that prioritises health and wellbeing. Employees who feel that their company is genuinely invested in their long-term wellness are likely to experience greater job satisfaction and loyalty. This may lead to reduced turnover rates and help attract top talent to the organisation.

During the holiday season, employees may face additional stress due to personal or financial pressures. Offering Extras cover for services such as mental health counselling, massage, and chiropractic care can show that the company cares about employee wellbeing not only during the holidays but throughout the year.

Tailoring Extras cover to meet employee needs

Different organisations have different workforces, and each workforce has unique health needs. Rather than offering a generic, ‘one size fits all’ health plan, employers should consider tailoring the cover they provide to better suit the specific requirements of their employees. For instance, younger employees may benefit more from optical benefits, while those in physically demanding roles may require greater access to physiotherapy.

Navy Health corporate policies allow organisations to choose the level of cover that best fits their workforce. By offering multiple Extras cover levels, employers can ensure they’re providing a health plan that maximises value for both their employees and the organisation.

Incorporating Extras cover into your corporate health insurance package is an investment in the long-term health and productivity of your employees. By promoting preventative healthcare and offering services that address immediate health concerns, you can help create a healthier, happier, and more engaged workforce. As the holiday season approaches, now is the perfect time to consider the benefits that Extras cover can bring to your employees and your organisation as a whole. Get in contact with our Corporate Growth and Relationship Partner to learn more.

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2. 2. 7 Strategies to Improve Your Employees’ Health and Well-Being
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4. Supporting Employee Health to Boost Productivity | Perci Health