Companies To Charge Smokers And The Obese More For Healthcare

If you can’t lower your cholesterol, stop smoking, or keep your weight under control, your company may soak you for more money for healthcare.

For example, discount store giant Wal-Mart says that starting in 2012 it will charge tobacco users higher premiums but also offer free smoking cessation programs…

Veridian, which until now has not charged its employees for healthcare premiums, says increases to its health care costs have been unsustainable, climbing 9 percent annually for the past three years. Earlier this year, it rolled out a wellness program and free screenings, which 90 percent of workers have now completed.

As it starts charging, it will provide discounts to those making progress as it “wants to reward those who have healthy lifestyles,” says Renee Christoffer, senior vice president of administration for the credit union.

By: Alan

Alan Colmes is the publisher of Liberaland.