According to Worker Productivity as the Next Frontier in Benefits Cost Management, the second in a series of research briefs stemming from Prudential's 5^th annual study of employee benefits, seven in 10 plan sponsors say controlling health care costs is "highly important" to them.

And three of their top five benefits objectives in 2010 are cost-related, namely, employers are placing greater emphasis on productivity-focused strategies such as wellness initiatives, absence management and benefits integration. Achieving work/life balance, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing stress are top of mind for employees and they expect their employers to help them reach these goals.

"Making sure employees are healthy and active at work is in everyone's best interest as it helps keep health care costs down and increases productivity," said Jim Porter, vice president of product development for Prudential's Group Insurance business. "Going forward more companies will start investing in wellness, prevention and return-to-work programs as part of a short-term/long-term employee retention and cost management plan."