Presenteeism
What is Presenteeism?
Presenteeism describes lost productivity that occurs when employees come to work but perform below
par due to any kind of illness.
Why should I be concerned?
Presenteeism is a growing concern for employers and health professionals, having potentially
catastrophic effects on both employee and organisational health, and presenting hidden long-term
costs for employers.
It is estimated that presenteeism accounts for more than 80% of an employer's total health care costs,
potentially a larger drain on productivity than either absenteeism or short-term disability. An employee
who arrives at work despite illness may only operate at a fraction of his or her normal capacity despite
requiring the same expenditure in wages, social contributions and taxes as employees operating at 100%.
"Research even shows that presenteeism may even be a stronger predictor of health than absenteeism."
Dr Zara Whysall, COPE Occupational Psychologist
Addressing Presenteeism
COPE recommends a three-staged approach for addressing presenteeism:
- Assess the extent and potential causes of presenteeism
- Design and implement interventions or strategies aimed at preventing or reducing presenteeism
- Monitor and review
Our practitioners provide tailored evidence-based solutions for tackling presenteeism, which may include:
- provision of personalised self-care guides for employees based on their symptoms and conditions
- examination of absence management strategies, working time arrangements, and performance management systems
- self-care training or health promotion activities for common presenteeism conditions
- initiatives to tackle aspects of organisational culture (e.g. long-hours culture)
Contact Us for
further information on how COPE could help you to tackle presenteeism in your organisation.