Sick days cost the South African economy an estimated R19 billion annually, equating to about 15% of employees being absent on any given day. With the economy already under strain, this presents a significant challenge to growing the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
According to Occupational Care South Africa (OCSA), absenteeism costs range from R12 to R16 billion per year, but the Human Capital Review estimates it even higher, at R19.144 billion. The high absenteeism rate directly impacts productivity, emphasising the link between employee health and economic performance.
Dr Themba Hadebe, a clinical executive at Bonitas Medical Fund, underscores the importance of a holistic approach to corporate wellness. He said this approach, including physical and mental health, creates a more motivated, creative, and productive workforce.
Imperative
Hadebe added that given the daily percentage of absenteeism in South Africa, a robust, risk-based corporate wellness programme is imperative. He explained that a wellness programme supports employee healthcare by providing access to primary care, managing a growing disease burden, and offering comprehensive emergency care for speedier recoveries.
This approach benefits employees and employers, resulting in a healthier, happier workforce and increased productivity. However, it is concerning that around 48% of corporates have no access to Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs). While 19.3% of South Africans are part of the active job market, only 16.1% can afford private medical aid.
With 1 in 5 South Africans over 15 living with more than one disease, access to healthcare is crucial. Hadebe highlighted the need for EAPs to support employees experiencing personal difficulties, stress, or mental health issues, which can lead to absenteeism and presenteeism. Presenteeism, where employees work while ill and perform below capacity, costs the economy R235 billion annually, or 4.3% of GDP.
Presenteeism
Workers with depression reported losing the equivalent of 27 workdays per year, including nine actual sick days. Presenteeism, where employees do the bare minimum due to disengagement and burnout, is also rising, further impacting productivity.
Medical aids can play a significant role in corporate wellness by contributing to early detection of lifestyle diseases, preventative care, and chronic disease management. With non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes on the rise, companies offering medical aid can provide comprehensive health coverage and support services.
Annual health check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations assist in early detection and prevention, reducing long-term health risks for employees. Managing chronic conditions through regular monitoring and specialist consultations also helps reduce absenteeism.
Given the high prevalence of depression in South Africa, with one in every five people showing symptoms and only 25% receiving treatment, integrating mental health support into wellness programmes is essential. Screening and access to psychologists, psychiatrists, and mental health programmes can mitigate the risk factors associated with both NCDs and mental illness.