NCJ Number
229177
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 36 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2009 Pages: 54,56,57
Date Published
October 2009
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article recommends that in order to reduce the high cost of health care for employees, law enforcement agencies should consider adopting care management with a strong wellness program for their employees.
Abstract
Given shrinking local budgets, law enforcement agencies are looking for ways to lower the expenses associated with health care coverage for their officers and civilian personnel. There are numerous actions an agency can take to improve the overall health of agency employees, which results in a lowered use of medical benefits. Although this might not counter the trend of rising premiums, it may help, while providing the benefit of fitter, healthier employees. One type of program designed to improve personnel health combines behavioral science with online technology. HealthMedia, a private company, provides online health coaching that offers privacy to participants. Participants participate in the program when they have free time, and the coaching is tailored to each participant based on his/her individual needs. Wellness programs work by shifting the focus from treatment by medical professionals to prevention through informed guidance on individual behaviors that can assist in avoiding serious illness and disability. Another issue of concern to law enforcement agencies and their personnel is the ongoing interpretation and updating of the health care insurance coverage offered through the agency. This article recommends turning to an outside company to assist officers and civilian employees in understanding what health care services are available under the agency's policy, the size of copayments, when benefits can be used, and who can provide health care services.