Issue
Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions were the second-highest driver of healthcare spend for this organization. Additionally, employee survey feedback cited workstation discomfort as negatively impacting the daily employee experience, with improvements to workstation ergonomics identified as a top opportunity to enhance health and wellbeing at work. Together, these factors indicated a need for a proactive, environment-based intervention.
Solution
The organization invested in a comprehensive ergonomic redesign of all workstations. In partnership with a workplace ergonomist, each workstation across the district was assessed and prioritized, resulting in a phased three-year implementation plan led by a dedicated CBIZ Wellbeing Coordinator. This initiative targeted the root causes of repetitive strain and poor posture, key drivers of musculoskeletal conditions.
Outcome
Since beginning the ergonomic workstation replacement, the organization has seen measurable improvements in employee wellbeing and a meaningful reduction in musculoskeletal claims and costs. Early results following full implementation suggest the investment is translating into measurable risk reduction and improved employee experience.
Health and Claims Improvements
- 20% to 30% reduction in employees experiencing MSK-related issues during the rollout, with the lowest number of MSK claimants occurring after full ergonomic implementation
- 45% reduction in claim volume during the first post-implementation
reporting period - 34% reduction in unique claimants
- 7% reduction in claims per 1,000 member-months
Financial Impact
- 23% reduction in total MSK spend during the first months following full workstation deployment
- MSK dropped from the second-highest cost driver to the fifth, reducing its overall financial burden on the health plan
- Remaining high-cost claims were largely tied to unavoidable surgical cases rather than posture- or repetitive strain-related diagnoses
Employee Feedback
- 87% of employees reported improved workstation comfort and usability
- 85% of employees who previously experienced discomfort reported reduced pain or improved physical comfort
- 77% reported improved productivity or a greater ability to do their best work
| Company Information | |
|---|---|
| Industry | Education |
| Geographic Footprint | Kansas City Area |
| Number of Employees | 650 |
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