Optum's EWS Program: A trailblazing approach to workplace well-being
BrandedUp in partnership with
In today's demanding work environment, employee emotional well-being is paramount, directly impacting productivity, engagement, and overall business success.
Optum, a leading healthcare organization, is setting a new industry standard by prioritizing employee well-being. Their innovative Emotional Wellbeing Solutions (EWS) program isn't just a benefit; it's a strategic approach to fostering a thriving and productive workplace.
The company recently hosted its inaugural Opt to Move Wellness Fair and Executive Forum, underscoring its commitment to employee wellness and showcasing the program's impact.
The EWS Fair: A celebration of wellness
The two-day EWS Fair, held last quarter at McKinley Hill Stadium, brought together over 1,000 Optum employees from across Metro Manila.
The event began with the Opt to Move fun run, a voluntary activity highlighting camaraderie and the connection between physical and mental health. This fun run symbolized Optum's holistic approach to wellness.
The second day featured an Executive Forum with experts including Lynette Oat (SVP, Total Population and Health at Optum), Christine Dugay (Principal at Ipsos Strategy3), and Dr. Noel Reyes (Medical Chief, National Center for Mental Health or NCMH).
Discussions focused on employee burnout, the importance of well-being, and organizational strategies to address these challenges. The forum highlighted Optum's dedication to supporting its employees and the broader community.
The forum highlighted Optum's dedication to providing resources and support for its employees and the broader community.
Key insights from the EWS Fair
Holistic approach: The EWS Forum emphasized Optum's commitment to a holistic approach to wellness, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.
Community building: The voluntary fun run fostered a strong sense of community among Optum employees, connecting colleagues from diverse locations.
Expert insights: The Executive Forum offered valuable insights into the challenges of employee burnout and strategies for creating a more supportive workplace. A key takeaway: There's no one-size-fits-all approach to employee well-being.
Leadership commitment: The presence of C-level executives and healthcare experts at the forum highlighted Optum's commitment to employee well-being as a top priority.
Optum's EWS Program: A comprehensive solution
Launched in 2023, the Philippine operations of EWS offer 24/7 on-demand support, accessible to all members and their families, regardless of gender or age.
The EWS Fair and the broader EWS program reflect Optum's comprehensive commitment to employee well-being. The event successfully promoted a holistic approach to wellness, built community, provided valuable expert insights into combating burnout, and showcased strong leadership support, achieving balanced reach across all employee demographics.
The program's recent expansion to the Davao hub shows Optum's dedication to supporting employees nationwide.
Why Optum's approach matters
Optum's investment in employee wellness is a strategic move benefiting both employees and the organization. A healthier, happier workforce leads to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and a stronger company culture.
Optum's approach serves as a model for other organizations, setting a standard for mindful leadership.
As Samarth Mathur, Managing Director for Optum Philippines and Puerto Rico, states: “We must return to the source of our organization’s success—our people. We owe it to our teams to exercise mindful leadership, developing solutions that prioritize their needs. The EWS Executive Forum allows us to continue this conversation and learn from each other in service of our people.”
***
Editor's note: BrandedUp is designed to provide you with insightful, inspiring, and educational content created by The Philippine STAR in collaboration with brands like Optum Philippines.
