Employee health issues can be a significant challenge for companies. This situation not only impacts individual productivity but can also disrupt overall team performance. Additionally, frequent absences may increase the workload of other team members, creating additional pressure in the workplace. In such situations, HR plays a critical role in maintaining a balance between supporting the affected employee and ensuring smooth company operations.
Here are comprehensive steps HR can take when dealing with an employee who frequently falls ill:
1. Adopting a Personal and Empathetic Approach
The first step is to have a direct conversation with the employee. This discussion should take place in a supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere. HR can inquire about the employee’s health condition and whether specific factors, such as work stress, the work environment, or personal issues, are affecting their well-being.
This approach is essential for understanding the employee’s needs while demonstrating the company’s care for their well-being. When employees feel supported, they are more likely to open up and collaborate on finding solutions.
2. Recommending Medical Check-Ups
If the employee has not consulted a doctor, HR can encourage them to do so. Some companies in Indonesia provide free health check-ups or subsidies through corporate insurance programs. Understanding the employee’s health condition more clearly allows HR and the employee to plan appropriate measures for improvement.
3. Providing Information and Access to Healthcare Facilities
HR must ensure that employees have full access to company-provided healthcare benefits, such as BPJS Kesehatan or additional insurance. Furthermore, HR can assist with the insurance claims process or provide information about relevant healthcare services.
For instance, some companies in Indonesia partner with specific clinics or hospitals to offer health services to employees. This can be a practical solution to help frequently ill employees receive the necessary care.
4. Reviewing the Employee’s Workload
Excessive workload can often contribute to health issues. HR can discuss with the employee’s immediate supervisor to review their assignments. Redistributing tasks among team members or adjusting targets may serve as a temporary solution to alleviate stress.
5. Optimizing Sick Leave Policies
Providing adequate sick leave is a crucial form of support from the company. HR should ensure that the company’s sick leave policies comply with Indonesian labor laws, such as the Omnibus Law, which governs employees’ rights to sick leave.
By granting sufficient time for recovery, the company not only aids the individual’s health but also prevents the spread of contagious illnesses if applicable.
6. Implementing Workplace Health Programs
HR can take preventive measures by organizing workplace health programs. Examples include health seminars, group exercise sessions, or offering healthy food in the cafeteria. Such initiatives promote a healthy lifestyle among employees, reducing the likelihood of future illnesses.
7. Providing Flexible Work Arrangements
For employees with chronic health issues, flexible work arrangements can be a viable solution. For instance, allowing employees to work from home or adjusting their work hours can enable them to remain productive without compromising their health.
8. Involving Corporate Health Professionals
If the company has access to in-house doctors or health consultants, HR can enlist their assistance in evaluating the employee’s condition. Professional guidance can help develop more specific solutions to support the employee’s recovery.
9. Implementing Routine Health Check-Ups
HR can also establish routine health check-up programs for all employees. These initiatives not only help detect health problems early but also show the company’s commitment to employee well-being.
10. Managing the Situation with Professionalism
HR must handle these cases with high professionalism, especially if the employee’s frequent absences significantly affect their job performance. In some instances, if prolonged absences persist without clear solutions, HR may need to consider options such as position adjustments or employment contract evaluations per company policies and regulations.
HR has a vital responsibility to ensure that the company operates efficiently while also prioritizing employee health. By adopting measures such as personal approaches, healthcare support, adequate sick leave policies, and preventive health programs, companies can create a healthy and productive workplace environment.
When employees feel supported during challenging times, their loyalty to the company increases. This is not just about resolving health issues but also about fostering an inclusive, empathetic, and sustainable work culture.
With RecruitFirst Indonesia, you can build a supportive work environment by leveraging our services, including permanent staffing, contract staffing, recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), and executive search.
Contact us to help you find the best talent, from staff to executive levels, that aligns with your business needs and company culture, creating a strong team for long-term success.
