An HR guide to men's health at work: Why men's health benefits matter

Companies are starting to recognise the importance of providing their employees with robust health plans. More companies are looking at how to tailor these health programmes to their employees in areas such as women's health, menopause, fertility, family-forming and now men's health too.

From flexible work hours and paternity leave, to access to mental health professionals and testosterone replacement therapy, more employers are investing in their male employees health and wellbeing. In this article, we will explore how companies are offering men's health and wellbeing benefits.

What do we mean when we talk about men's health? 

When we talk about men's health, we're referring to a range of physical and mental health conditions and illnesses that specifically affect men and people assigned male at birth. This includes conditions like prostate cancer, testicular cancer, infertility, sexual dysfunction, male pattern baldness, and depression. These all can have serious implications for a man's physical and mental well-being, so it's important that they receive the proper care and attention. That's why many companies are striving to provide their employees with comprehensive benefits packages that include a specific focus on men's health concerns.

Why all companies should offer men's health benefits

It's no secret that men are often reluctant to talk about their health, and that can have serious consequences. Many men ignore the signs of illness until it's too late, and they don't get the treatment they need.

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📢 1 in 8 men in the UK will be diagnosed with prostate cancer.

🎾 Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men in the UK.

📉 1 in 3 couples are impacted by low sperm count.

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That's why companies should consider offering comprehensive men's health benefits or a men's health programme, alongside other areas of support such as menopause and fertility. Not only is it good for employees' physical and mental well-being, but it also shows that the company cares about its workforce. By providing a range of services tailored specifically to male employees, you're showing them that you understand their needs and that you’re willing to do what it takes to ensure their long-term health.

The four things companies should think about when putting in place a men's health programme

While many companies have comprehensive employee benefits packages that include health insurance that covers lots of men's health concerns, it's less common to find benefits specifically designed exclusively for men.

Companies are starting to recognise the importance of offering gender-inclusive health and wellness benefits that address men's health needs. Not only is it good for the physical and mental wellbeing of their male workforce, but it also shows them that their employer cares about their needs. By offering education and awareness programmes, physical health programmess, mental health services, access to diagnostic testing, and ongoing treatment and care, companies can ensure that their male employees are getting the attention they need to stay healthy.

Education and awareness

Providing educational materials about men's health issues is one of the best ways to ensure that male employees are aware of potential risks to their health and can take steps to prevent them. Make sure to cover topics like prostate cancer, testicular cancer, infertility, depression, and other male-specific illnesses or conditions. You should also think about how you are going to raise awareness for and help prevent the development of medical conditions, like coronary heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, that affect more men than women. 

Physical health

It's important for companies to offer physical health programmes tailored specifically for men – this could include gym memberships, fitness classes, or even running sports teams. Regular exercise and healthy diets play a vital role in reducing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, heart attacks and strokes as people age. 

Mental health and wellbeing

Mental health is an important part of overall health, and many men struggle with depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues in silence. Companies should provide access to mental health care and think about flexible hours or mental health or wellbeing leave to ensure that everyone has the time and resources they need to take care of their mental wellbeing.

Access to treatment and care

Men's health concerns can require ongoing medical attention, so it's important for companies to provide access to specialist care as well as cover the costs of any medications or treatments that may be necessary. Additionally, making sure that employees have access to support groups or other resources can help make the process easier and to ensure people are getting all the support they need.

The different types of support for men's health employers can offer

Education and awareness events

Facilitating open and honest conversations about men's health issues is often the first step in raising awareness and encouraging men to seek medical care for health conditions that might be affecting them; both physically and mentally. Men are more likely to live with poor health and put off going to the doctor, so consider offering seminars or workshops hosted by medical professionals who can provide more in-depth information on these topics.

Mental health and wellbeing support

Employers should consider mental health and employee wellbeing support. This is commonly done via employee assistance programmes (EAPs) or dedicated counselling services. These programmes provide confidential counselling, mental health advice, and support for any issues that employees may be facing. Many companies also offer wellness programs that may include access to nutrition counselling, smoking cessation programs, and stress management resources.

Private health insurance

Health insurance is offered by many employers to look after the essential employee health needs. Some PMI schemes also include Telemedicine services which can be used for a variety of health concerns, including men's health issues.

Employers should also consider health insurance providers that have programmes that provide medical care for men's health conditions. This could include access to specialist care, such as coverage for prostate cancer screenings, and other diagnostic tests and health checks.

Health screenings

Some companies offer free or subsidised preventive health screenings, including prostate cancer screenings and cholesterol checks. Think about how you are providing access to diagnostic testing such as blood tests, or screenings for common health issues to help catch any problems early on.

Gym memberships

Offering discounted gym memberships or on-site fitness classes can help encourage male employees to stay active and fit. Think about ways you can make it as easy as possible for your team members to get the exercise they need alongside their work schedule. This could be encouraging people to go for a run or to an exercise class during their lunch break, or it could be having a flexible working policy that means people can get the exercise they need during more traditional working hours. 

Men's health specific benefits 

Putting in place men's health specific benefits, from a company like Fertifa, can also help organisations cover things like prescription drug charges for medication for men's health conditions, as well as health education resources and workshops to increase awareness around conditions that specifically affect men. 

If you're looking to implement men's health specific support for your employees, book in a call with our team to discuss how we can help 💜