June is recognized as Men’s Health Month, a national observance dedicated to raising awareness about preventable health problems and encouraging early detection and treatment among men and boys. For employers, this is a timely opportunity to reduce health-related risks in the workplace and support the long-term well-being of male employees.
Men are more likely than women to suffer from serious health conditions such as heart disease, liver disease, and certain cancers. Yet men are also less likely to visit a doctor regularly or engage in preventive care. In Alaska, many businesses rely on partners like MedPhysicals Plus to help close that gap through occupational screenings, physicals, and wellness services that meet employees where they are.
The Overlooked Impact of Men’s Health in the Workplace
Men avoid preventive care
According to the Cleveland Clinic’s 2019 MENtion It campaign, 72% of men would rather do household chores, such as cleaning the bathroom or mowing the lawn, than visit a doctor. Furthermore, only 50% of men consider getting their annual check-up a regular part of taking care of themselves. This reluctance to seek routine medical care can lead to delayed diagnoses and more severe health issues.
Mental health remains under-addressed
Data from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) shows that men are significantly less likely to seek mental health services, despite higher rates of suicide and substance abuse. In the workplace, untreated mental health conditions contribute to absenteeism, accidents, and reduced productivity.
Chronic illnesses affect safety and performance
Undiagnosed conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and sleep apnea can impact a worker’s physical performance and cognitive function. These health issues not only affect individual employees but also increase risks for employers.
Strengthening Workforce Health Through Proactive Leadership
Employers are uniquely positioned to create a culture of wellness that men may not always find in traditional healthcare settings or even at home. While many men are reluctant to take the initiative for their own health, they are more likely to engage when opportunities are integrated into their work environment, especially when supported by leadership.
These workplace-based interventions don’t just help individual employees; they strengthen teams, reduce long-term insurance costs, and demonstrate organizational commitment to employee well-being. Men’s health decisions ripple outward, influencing families, communities, and corporate culture. This holds equally true inside the workplace.
A Workplace Ally in Health: MedPhysicals Plus
MedPhysicals Plus offers a full range of occupational health services designed to keep your workforce healthy, safe, and compliant. We make it easy for employers across Alaska to implement effective wellness and screening programs.
Our key services include:
- Occupational Health Services: Drug and alcohol testing, audiology, respirator mask fit testing, and more
- DOT Physicals and Compliance Services: Certified exams to ensure drivers meet all DOT medical requirements
- Employee Health and Wellness Screenings: Lab panels and body system checks to catch conditions early
- Physical Abilities Testing: Ensure employees are physically able to meet job demands safely
With multiple clinic locations and mobile services available, we offer convenient access for employers throughout Alaska.
Take the Lead on Men’s Health
Your workforce is your most valuable asset. Supporting men’s health is not just the right thing to do; it protects your business from costly health-related issues and improves morale across your team.
Partner with MedPhysicals Plus this Men’s Health Month. Let’s work together to create a workplace where health is valued, support is accessible, and men are empowered to take control of their well-being, at work and beyond.