"Take this Health Risk Assessment." That's one approach to getting participants to take the HRA. But to maximize participation, you've got to help people understand the value of this important wellness tool.
You want to encourage a high level of participation, and that often begins with a presentation designed to answer questions and generate interest. Consider these four simple steps for success at your next HRA rollout presentation.
1. Explain the benefits of the HRA.
Help your participants understand how the HRA can identify current health risks and give them practical advice for reducing those risk factors.
Provide an example if you can. At Wellsource, IT Manager Ron Prague made some major lifestyle changes after getting his HRA results. Maybe you have a participant willing to share their success story when you invite participants to complete the HRA.
Also be sure to let participants know what kind of incentives or rewards are available for participating.
2. Answer questions and concerns.
Some participants are likely to complete the HRA just because you asked. But others may have questions and concerns before they will agree to participate. Come prepared to your presentation meeting with answers to common questions.
- Assure them that your company follows all HIPAA regulations and privacy laws and will not share their information with anyone, without the participant's consent.
- Let participants know who will have access to their personal data, and that the information can only be used in accordance with HIPAA. Explain what that means.
- Provide consent/confidentiality forms for participants to sign.
- Consider developing a list of Frequently Asked Questions for your participants. Hand it out or post it on your website.
3. Highlight the wellness tools available.
Give your participants a snapshot of what kind of resources will be available to them after completing the HRA.
- Describe the value of the personal report provided after completing the HRA.
- Let participants know about the specific programs, online tools and interventions available that may be of interest to them based on their risk factors.
4. Set the dates.
Set a date for completing the HRA, any biometric screening, and redeeming rewards. Provide clear instructions on dates, times, and locations. Make sure your participants know what to expect from start to finish.
On a final note, whether you are holding employee meetings to present the HRA or talking to participants individually, always be positive. Help participants recognize that completing the HRA and participating in the wellness program is really a valuable benefit to them. And it doesn't hurt to publish how much is being spent on their behalf to provide the program.
