The changes in the German labor market are clearly evident. While large corporations remain attractive thanks to job security and good career prospects, even they face the threat of production losses—and perhaps even bankruptcy. To remain competitive, companies are increasingly focusing on benefits such as employer-sponsored health insurance (bKV).
Matthäi Bauunternehmen GmbH recognized this and, having been recognized as a healthy employer, wanted to do even more for its more than 3,000 employees. We spoke with Katip Tavan, Commercial Director and Supplier Relationship Manager at the Matthäi Group, about how the introduction of a tailored supplementary health insurance plan in collaboration with Faktor Mensch became Faktor Mensch success.
FM: Mr. Tavan, what was your goal in implementing a supplementary health insurance plan at the company?
KT: At Matthäi, health always comes first. That’s why it’s important to us that everyone who works here has easy access to employer-sponsored supplemental health benefits. No one should have to go without special benefits simply because they can no longer afford them privately. In this way, we are fulfilling our responsibility as a socially responsible and attractive employer.
FM: I’m sure you faced a number of challenges. How did you go about integrating the bKV into your company?
KT: FAKTOR MENSCH us with consulting support regarding the supplementary health insurance plan. Together, we identified and implemented the right plan for our group-wide workforce. We utilized all available communication channels to inform our employees about the additional benefits. For example, we included information in their pay stubs, as this ensures we reach every employee. In addition, we used video conferences and promoted the supplementary health insurance plan via our intranet. Furthermore, we are constantly on-site at our locations to engage with employees in person.
FM: In your opinion, is it fair to say that the introduction of health insurance, including a health budget, has had an impact on health awareness in your company?
KT: Yes, we’ve definitely noticed that many people at Matthäi are taking a keen interest in health issues. In particular, there’s been an increase in the number of people scheduling preventive checkups and consultations with specialists, even when they don’t have any acute symptoms. Early detection plays a key role.
FM: Every company is concerned with cost-effectiveness. How important do you consider the analysis of the use of supplementary health insurance benefits to be?
KT: We have noticed that the use of these services is steadily increasing, particularly as a result of the targeted measures we are implementing. For example, we regularly highlight the benefits of the supplementary health insurance plan at staff meetings. One piece of feedback we frequently receive from our employees is that appointments with specialists can be scheduled much more quickly than before.
FM: How can the success of a supplementary health insurance integration be measured in terms of employer branding?
KT: We use a variety of methods to analyze data and then address specific areas. The supplementary health insurance plan is a major asset for our reputation as an employer. Our employees really appreciate that we care about their health. These additional benefits are also a key selling point when recruiting new skilled workers. We’ve brought all our health-related initiatives together under the banner of the “Matthäi Health Plan.”
FM: So, is company health insurance a model that Matthäi plans to integrate into its workplace health management program in the long term?
KT: Workplace health management offers a wide range of opportunities. We are constantly exploring ways to expand and improve it. We believe we still have a long way to go.
Would you also like to benefit from the Matthäi Group’s proven track record and retain your employees by offering them relevant benefits? We would be happy to present possible solutions to you in a no-obligation initial consultation—we look forward to hearing your ideas!