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The Indiana Chamber of Commerce says that businesses today cannot afford not to have a wellness program, the Terre Haute Tribune Star reports.

Said Chamber CEO Kevin Brinegar at a recent luncheon: “You cannot afford not to make an effort on wellness. Screenings, body mass index, immunizations [and] flu shots are all things that help keep employees healthy, and make for a better workforce.”

“Those attending the luncheon heard tips to reduce health care costs for their companies and how to promote wellness programs that pay off in fewer sick days and more productivity.”

“The success of Indiana¹s economy is tied directly to the health of the workforce, Brinegar said. Indiana is ranked 41st in the nation in the health of the population, with obesity and smoking being major concerns. When talking about the skills and ability needed by employees to do their jobs, the health of the workforce should also be a concern, he said. Statistically, obese workers have seven times more medical claims, and the average smoker costs about $5,800 more in health care than a nonsmoker.”