Employers are uniquely positioned to lead the fight against cancer and make a real difference in the health and wellbeing of their employees and their family members. The cost of cancer in the workplace is extraordinarily high considering the direct medical costs, lost productivity, disability claims and the tremendous personal toll the disease takes on individuals, families and coworkers. However, a report earlier this year in the journal, Health Affairs, noted that employer medical costs fall by about $3.27 for every dollar spent on wellness programs and that absenteeism costs fall by about $2.73 for every dollar spent.

BCBSNC becomes the second Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association licensee to become Gold Standard accredited, joining Independence Blue Cross of Philadelphia. Today, more than one and a quarter million employees and family members are benefiting from the vision and leadership of employers who have chosen to become Gold Standard accredited. CEO Cancer Gold Standard accreditation is awarded to organizations that demonstrate an exceptional, comprehensive commitment to fighting cancer by focusing on risk reduction, early detection and quality care. While the focus of the Gold Standard is cancer, the benefits of encouraging healthy lifestyle choices extend to other serious and expensive chronic conditions and diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The Gold Standard sends an important message to employees: "We are investing in your health because we care about you".

SOURCE Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina