Workers ‘uncomfortable taking time out for health appointments’

New research from Bupa Health Clinics has found that only three in 10 employees say their employer encourages them to look after their health.

Just under a quarter (24%) say they don’t feel their employer is encouraging when it comes to attending regular appointments.

16% say they have to take health appointments off as holiday or unpaid leave, and 15% have had time off denied even though it was for a health check-up or screening.

The study also found that over one in five employees say they’re too busy to take time off for a health appointment.

Regular health screenings have been neglected during the pandemic, for example, there are currently 4.7 million people with cervixes in the UK who haven’t been adequately screened for cervical cancer.

Alaana Woods, Commercial Director at Bupa Health Clinics said: “For businesses, looking after employee health is essential.

“If employees are unable to attend health appointments or regular screenings then health concerns are left for longer, which can later result in long-term absence from the organisation for treatment.

“For each case of long-term absence, it costs businesses £19,000 – this is huge.

“Not only is looking after employee health the right thing to do, but it makes business sense. Those who support employee health and wellbeing, reap the benefits of having a healthy, productive and engaged workforce.”