During check-ups in a corporate setting, we do not usually uncover major, unknown problems or unknown illnesses that the employees did not even know about before the check-up. Much more frequently, we identify risk factors that individually or – usually – cumulatively can lead to serious illnesses or complaints in the long term and thus impair the ability to work in the medium and long term. Most people only really become aware of these connections during the examination.
The most common ‘pain points’ are in the musculoskeletal system, particularly shoulders/neck and back, as well as joints, muscle strength and muscle length. The positive thing is that we can identify and resolve long-term complaints and restrictions at an early stage with simple, targeted support.
In principle, you can check almost anything these days – from blood analyses to urine tests, eye tests, vascular tests and detailed genetic tests. The crucial question here is where the time and financial outlay is really worthwhile and what the employees gain from these results in terms of knowledge, how they transfer them into their everyday lives and modify things that are important. My experience has shown that, regardless of the analyses carried out, this always requires specialists who discuss these results with the employees and plan their implementation. Few “basic” analyses are needed and no “fancy” things that cause no added value but only high costs.
The focus is on ensuring that specialists take enough time for the examinations and the subsequent discussion and that employees receive direct support from these coaches in order to improve certain – negative – habits.
A “check-up” without subsequent coaching is completely pointless. In the medical examination, for example, we can determine whether everything is in order with the musculoskeletal system and the training status is sufficient, or whether adjustments are necessary and sensible – and can explain these. However, the actual change towards these adjustments only happens afterwards. And this requires more than just a paper with facts, figures and general tips; it requires specialists, a coach and several contacts over a longer period of time.
Only with this support can changes really be implemented in everyday life. I am also convinced that continuous support and follow-up are crucial for success. Only employees who receive regular check-ups and coaching will show significant long-term improvements in their health and productivity. Professional competence also requires continuous further training.
The reactions are almost always positive. Most employees appreciate the opportunity to be examined and receive valuable tips for their health or at least confirmation that what they are doing is good and effective. They also feel valued and supported by their employer and feel that they are important to their employer as a person and not just as a budget item. The personal interview in particular is perceived as very helpful, as they receive concrete support that they can integrate into their everyday lives. Feedback shows that these measures increase awareness of their own healthand that many previously inactive employees are beginning to do something for their own physical performance and well-being.
It is important to develop a holistic concept that includes not only the medical examinations, but also the subsequent care and support. Companies should invest in qualified specialists who can communicate the results clearly and offer further solutions. Regular follow-ups and the involvement of qualified coaches are crucial to achieving sustainable change.
Contact us without obligation and let us discuss which check-up option would be suitable for your company.
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