What Are Biometric Screenings?
A biometric screening is a proactive approach for employee wellness and is used to identify and monitor certain underlying health conditions. Employers may choose to order these screenings to gather a baseline assessment on the overall health of their employees or candidates and to assess whether potential health conditions may lead to more serious health issues in the future. Regular biometric screening can also monitor any changes that develop over time.
A typical biometric screening will be conducted by a medical professional and will include a fasting blood draw. The bloodwork, along with a medical history questionnaire and body composition measurements will provide an assessment of your employee’s overall health. High blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood glucose levels are strongly associated with chronic illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. The information collected during the biometric screening is used to determine if your employees are at a high risk for these illnesses.
Biometric screenings can be a useful tool to help improve workplace safety by detecting warning signs of chronic conditions that can contribute to workplace injuries, accidents and potential worker’s compensation claims. If caught early, many health related issues can be alleviated or prevented through simple lifestyle changes. Adding biometric screenings is an enhancement to your existing occupational health and wellness programs.
What are some of the benefits of offering biometric screenings?
Early detection of health issues
One of the greatest benefits of biometric screenings is the early detection of potential health issues. If an underlying issue is found, your employees can take the appropriate steps to control it. By catching issues early, it’s more likely that employers will spend less money over time. Prevented illness and disease also results in fewer workplace accidents, improved safety, and improved employee longevity.
Time and money savings
Investing in your employees' health pays over time! According to the CDC, “Chronic conditions and unhealthy behaviors reduce worker productivity. Five chronic diseases or risk factors—high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, physical inactivity, and obesity—cost US employers $36.4 billion a year because of employees missing days of work”. Information gathered during the screening can help prevent these chronic conditions before they take a toll on your company.
Improved workforce morale
Increased morale is known to lead to increased productivity and retention rates as well as lowered absenteeism and turnover. Biometric screenings are a benefit for your employees. By offering this service it demonstrates that you care for your workforce and their overall wellbeing.
What information is gathered during a biometric screening?
- Height
- Weight
- Body Mass Index (BMI)
- Blood pressure
- Blood cholesterol levels
- Blood sugar levels
How to prepare your employees for a biometric screening
Advise employees to:
- Fast for 8 to 12 hours before the screening. Water, black coffee, or tea are acceptable before the screening.
- Stay hydrated. Being well hydrated can make it easier for medical providers to perform the blood draw.
- Take any prescribed medications as usual.
Biometric screenings are a vital component of a robust occupational health program which benefits both your employees and your company.
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NMS Health's service is designed to make the screening process simple and less time consuming for your hiring teams. Our team of medical experts will help you establish a health screening program that is right for your company. With a large network of clinic partners, we've got coverage in all 50 states!
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