Cash plans are key to reducing sick days

I was encouraged by the Confederation of British Industry report that said working days lost to absence are at their lowest level in 20 years - the figure has fallen by four million days to 164 million days.

While this is too high, it is a step in the right direction, and employers are finally beginning to realise that they have to take some responsibility.

Companies providing benefits like healthcare cash plans and private medical insurance have contributed to the lower absence levels and that this proves a selling point for brokers.

Our research shows businesses throughout the country want to switch from a 'get well' strategy, to a 'stay well' culture that would encourage individuals to become involved in their own health management.

The preventative role of the traditional cash plan remains, with financial assistance for the dental and optical health checks. However, we extended this to include health screening, discounted membership to health and fitness clubs and discreet private helplines that deal with stress in general and also the causes of stress such as relationships, money and work.

There is clearly a link between reducing absenteeism and increasing business performance. This is where healthcare cash plans can prove valuable to companies and the fact that they can help prevent absenteeism is a fantastic selling opportunity for brokers. Make hay while the sun shines!

Bill Gaywood, Chief executive, Medicash.