Divided We Fail Commends Bipartisan Senate Leadership On Prevention and Wellness Legislation

AARP, Business Roundtable, SEIU and NFIB -- which collectively represent more than 53 million Americans and together make up Divided We Fail -- today announced their support for legislation that would give businesses a powerful new incentive to provide customized tools that help employees better manage their own health and wellness.

The "Healthy Workforce Act," introduced by Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Gordon Smith (R-OR), would give a tax credit of up to 50 percent to businesses that offer their employees qualified, comprehensive wellness programs that contain at least three of the following four elements:

• Health awareness/education -- including assessments and preventive screenings;
• Behavioral change -- including counseling, seminars or self-help materials;
• Supportive environment -- including health premium reductions or daytime exercise options; and
• Employee engagement -- to tailor the program to the needs of the company's workforce

"America's medical system is focused on treating disease rather than maintaining health," said AARP CEO Bill Novelli. "As a nation, we can do better. Twenty-first century health care should mean getting the best care before we ever get sick. Prevention is the best cure."

"As America's largest employers, we have embraced our vital role in the health care equation by providing our employees with the support they need to make good choices and live healthier lives," said Business Roundtable President John J. Castellani. "But we can't do it alone. Government, business and individuals each have a role, and this bill is a step in the right direction by our nation's lawmakers."

"Staying healthy and independent is a lifelong job," said SEIU President Andy Stern. "Wellness and prevention efforts, including changes in personal behavior such as diet and exercise, should be a top national priority."

"It is so important for people to be aware of the benefits of promoting better health and wellness, especially on the front end -- before chronic conditions drive up costs," said NFIB President and CEO Todd Stottlemyer. "We especially encourage health, wellness and prevention programs to be adaptable and flexible enough for the smallest of small businesses."

Together, AARP, Business Roundtable, SEIU and NFIB are committed to engaging the American people, businesses, non-profit organizations, and elected officials in finding bipartisan solutions that ensure affordable, quality health care and long-term financial security for all.

See Also:

Doing Well Through Wellness -- a study of 160 Busines Roundtable CEOs whose companies provide health care for more than 35 million Americans.