Boost the effectiveness of work ability management by addressing the root causes
Terveystalo has been utilizing the modern blood analysis technology developed by our partner Nightingale to support preventive work ability management for almost two years. We are constantly striving to develop our operations because we want to ensure that our customers are guided onto the appropriate path and receive support and guidance in implementing lifestyle changes that reduce their risk of illness.
As part of Terveystalo's health checks, risk factors for lifestyle-related diseases are identified from a standard blood sample and a personal lifestyle-related disease risk report is created. In future situations where the lifestyle disease risk report shows an elevated or high risk, the employee will automatically receive a text message with a preliminary appointment suggestion for a call with their occupational health nurse. This will help guide them as smoothly as possible onto a care path that supports their work ability.
– Previously, suitable follow-up times for health examinations were often sought during the appointment. Now, the time that was previously spent looking for a suitable time during the appointment can be used to meet with the customer and support them in initiating lifestyle changes, says Sanni Ohisalo, Senior Occupational Health Nurse at Terveystalo.
– The preliminary appointment suggestion saves time and streamlines the customer's experience, as they can choose the most suitable time from the suggestions. If the customer does not select a time, no appointment is made. This means that there is no need to cancel the suggested time, Ohisalo continues.
A similar preliminary appointment booking system has been in use at Terveystalo for some time to support other identified work ability challenges.
– Our previous experiences with preliminary appointments in the work ability support process have been positive, as they enable us to address work ability challenges more quickly, says Ilse Rauhaniemi, Chief Physician of Preventive Healthcare at Terveystalo.
Lifestyle diseases reduce work ability and are linked to disability
Lifestyle diseases not only cause considerable human suffering, but are also strongly linked to the most common causes of disability, such as musculoskeletal disorders and mental health problems.
– Our own data shows that a high risk of illness, regardless of age and gender, is indeed linked to higher rates of sick leave. The more simultaneous high risks of illness a person has, the higher their sick leave rate. Lifestyle factors that increase risk are associated with symptoms that also reduce work efficiency while at work. Lifestyle-related health risks therefore also have a direct impact on employers' costs, says Rauhaniemi.
Risks can be influenced by lifestyle changes
It is worth utilizing the expertise of occupational health nurses in promoting health. They have the skills to support clients in changing their lifestyles and the means to ensure that these changes do not fall by the wayside in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
– We have long been working with clients to set goals related to work ability and health during health examinations. Often, when it comes to lifestyle changes, 'life gets in the way,' and if the discussion about lifestyle disease risks remains very superficial, the change in health habits remains incomplete. It is cost-effective to prevent lifestyle disease risks before they cost the employer in terms of inefficiency, such as fatigue or even absenteeism, says Ohisalo.
– It is important that no one is left alone with lifestyle changes. Studies show that change is most successful when clear goals are set and the achievement of those goals is supported and monitored. The support provided by an occupational health nurse is a valuable and cost-effective way to support clients in changing their lifestyle, says Rauhaniemi.
