The concept of wellness isn't new, but the emphasis about getting healthier and staying healthy through wellness programs has taken a quantum leap over the past couple of years, especially in the employer markets and with Medicare Advantage Plans. Although many organizations like to tout the fact they offer wellness initiatives, the need to improve the overall quality of health care through preventive measures has gained a lot of ground with the inclusion of programs that go beyond a basic gym membership or healthy food served in the cafeteria or lounges in corporate facilities.

According to Smart Business News Online, worksite health promotion is an investment in a company's most important asset—its employees. Studies have shown that employees are more likely to perform well and less likely to exhibit presenteeism—showing up to work when sick and, as a result, underperforming—when they are in optimal health.

As the workplace dynamic continues to change due to an increased number of employees who are working remotely and/or with flexible schedules, employers are faced with new challenges as suggested by JRG Advisors in Pittsburgh. The absence of employees from the physical workplace makes it difficult to implement a one-size-fits-all wellness program, making it more important than ever to consider the individual's needs, resources and environment when developing a wellness program. While one employee may be located in the city with easy access to local markets and fitness facilities, a more rural employee may not be.