In the modern workplace, employee health is increasingly recognized as a crucial factor that influences not only the well-being of individual workers but also the overall productivity and success of organizations. While many employers focus on traditional health benefits such as insurance coverage, medical treatments, and wellness programs, there is growing awareness of the role that social determinants of health (SDOH) play in shaping employee health outcomes.
Social determinants of health refer to the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. These factors, which extend beyond access to healthcare, include social, economic, and environmental factors that directly affect an individual’s health. Addressing SDOH in the workplace can have a significant impact on employee productivity, engagement, and retention. Let’s explore how social determinants of health influence worker productivity and what employers can do to mitigate their effects.
Understanding Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines social determinants of health as “the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age.” These factors include:
- Economic Stability: Income, employment, and financial security.
- Education Access and Quality: Level of education attained and access to learning opportunities.
- Social and Community Context: Social support, safety, and the quality of relationships in one’s community.
- Health Care Access and Quality: Availability of and access to quality health services.
- Neighborhood and Built Environment: Housing quality, transportation, food access, and environmental factors.
These factors often have a profound impact on an individual’s physical and mental health. For instance, someone living in poverty may have limited access to nutritious food, safe housing, or quality healthcare, which can lead to chronic health conditions like diabetes or hypertension. These health issues, in turn, can affect their ability to perform well at work.
How SDOH Affect Worker Productivity
The connection between SDOH and productivity is more direct than many may realize. Here are some key ways in which social determinants of health impact employee performance:
Chronic Health Conditions Linked to SDOH: Workers who face challenges such as inadequate housing, food insecurity, or financial instability are more likely to develop chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or mental health issues. These health conditions can lead to frequent absenteeism, presenteeism (working while sick or not fully productive), and longer recovery times, all of which hinder productivity.
For example, workers with chronic conditions may experience fatigue, pain, or mental health issues that affect their ability to concentrate, complete tasks efficiently, and maintain energy levels throughout the workday. A study by the CDC found that chronic diseases cost U.S. employers approximately $36 billion in lost productivity annually.
Mental Health and Stress: Mental health is deeply intertwined with social determinants. Factors such as financial strain, job insecurity, discrimination, and lack of social support can contribute to mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), nearly 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experience mental illness each year, and the impact on workplace productivity is profound.
Employees experiencing stress and mental health challenges are more likely to take sick leave or exhibit lower levels of engagement and motivation at work. Chronic stress also impacts decision-making abilities, focus, and relationships with colleagues, leading to a decrease in overall team productivity. According to a report by the American Psychological Association, stress costs U.S. businesses up to $300 billion annually in absenteeism, turnover, and lost productivity.
Workplace Safety and Environment: The physical environment in which workers operate is another key factor in the SDOH framework. Poor working conditions, lack of ergonomic spaces, exposure to hazardous materials, or inadequate lighting and ventilation can result in physical strain or injuries, leading to absenteeism and reduced output. The environment also includes elements like job security and relationships with coworkers—factors that affect emotional and mental health. In environments where employees feel undervalued, unsafe, or unsupported, productivity tends to drop, as disengaged employees are less likely to perform at their best.
Access to Resources and Support Systems: Workers who lack access to transportation, quality healthcare, or childcare can face significant challenges in balancing their personal and professional lives. A lack of these resources often leads to increased absenteeism, tardiness, and difficulty concentrating. For example, employees who are unable to find affordable childcare may miss work or struggle with a lack of focus when they are on the job.
A study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that employees with limited access to healthcare were more likely to report poor health and lower job performance. The same study suggested that providing employees with better access to healthcare services can reduce absenteeism and improve overall productivity.
The Business Case for Addressing SDOH in the Workplace: Employers who understand the connection between SDOH and productivity can take proactive steps to address these factors in their workforce. Not only is this good for employees, but it can also result in tangible benefits for businesses, including:
- Reduced Absenteeism: By addressing employees’ health-related challenges, employers can reduce absenteeism due to illness or stress. This can be achieved through workplace wellness programs, better healthcare access, and flexible working conditions that support mental and physical health.
- Improved Employee Engagement and Retention: Employees who feel supported by their employer in areas like financial stability, healthcare access, and work-life balance are more likely to be engaged and committed to their roles. Engaged employees are more productive and less likely to leave their jobs, saving businesses the cost of turnover and recruitment.
- Better Team Dynamics: When employees’ social and community needs are addressed, they are better able to collaborate with colleagues, contribute to the organization’s success, and bring a positive attitude to their work. A healthy and supportive work environment promotes creativity, problem-solving, and team cooperation.
Strategies for Employers to Address SDOH
Employers can take a number of actions to address social determinants of health and improve worker productivity:
Health and Wellness Programs: Offering comprehensive health benefits, including mental health resources, fitness programs, and chronic disease management, can help employees stay healthy and productive. Providing access to resources like telemedicine and employee assistance programs (EAPs) ensures employees have the support they need without the barriers of cost or time constraints.
Flexible Work Arrangements: Offering flexible work hours, remote work options, and paid family leave can help employees balance their personal and professional lives. This is especially important for employees with caregiving responsibilities, health concerns, or transportation challenges. Flexible schedules can reduce stress and improve employee well-being.
Financial Well-Being Initiatives: Employers can provide financial wellness programs that help employees manage debt, save for emergencies, and plan for retirement. Reducing financial stress can lead to improved mental health, reduced absenteeism, and increased productivity.
Creating a Supportive and Inclusive Work Culture: Fostering an inclusive, supportive, and safe work environment encourages workers to be more engaged and motivated. Providing opportunities for social support, mentorship, and community-building within the workplace can improve mental health and reduce feelings of isolation.
All the above solutions can be implemented collectively through a new program called VitalLink.
Conclusion
Social determinants of health significantly impact worker productivity, and employers who fail to address these factors may see higher levels of absenteeism, presenteeism, and turnover, as well as lower engagement and overall productivity. By recognizing and addressing the social, economic, and environmental factors that influence employee health, employers can create a more supportive and productive workforce. Investing in employee health—both physical and mental—is not only beneficial for workers but also for the bottom line, leading to healthier, happier, and more engaged employees. Want to learn more about a new program designed to help your employee who are struggling with SDOH issues? Reach out to us today at Premier and schedule a no obligation, 30-minute zoom call to learn more about VitalLink.
Sources:
World Health Organization (WHO) – Social Determinants of Health: Website: https://www.who.int/social_determinants/en/
American Psychological Association (APA) – Stress in America:Website: https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2020/annual-stress
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (JOEM) – The Impact of Social Determinants of Health on Productivity: Website: https://journals.lww.com/joem