Health care costs spur push for wellness programs

Companies hoping to cut their health care costs are increasingly looking at adding wellness programs to improve employees’ health.

Dr. James Hill of the University of Colorado School of Medicine said various studies have shown the programs can improve employees’ fitness and lower health care costs, but employees don’t always take advantage of the programs.

Colorado-based TeleTech Holdings Inc. is among companies that have developed a wellness program to help manage health care expenses. Employee Michelle Ebert said it has helped her lose 80 pounds over the last two years.

Meanwhile, the company said its health care costs have remained flat due to a combination of factors, including fewer emergency room visits, fewer health claims and changes in the design of health plans.