Supporting Stroke Awareness in the Workplace
Each May, the observation of American Stroke Month brings attention to the importance of stroke prevention, early recognition and timely treatment. It’s also a helpful reminder that when people know the warning signs of stroke and understand their personal risk factors, they’re better prepared to protect their own health and help others during an emergency.
That message matters in the workplace, too. A stroke can happen suddenly, so it helps to know what to look for. The American Stroke Association urges people to remember B.E. F.A.S.T. when they spot the warning sign of a stroke, including:
Balance loss
Sudden trouble with balance, coordination, walking or dizziness
Eye or vision changes
Sudden blurred vision, double vision or loss of sight in one or both eyes
Face drooping
One side of the face droops or feels numb, and the smile may appear uneven
Arm weakness
One arm feels weak or numb and may drift downward when both arms are raised
Speech difficulty
Speech is slurred or hard to understand
Time to call 911
If any of these symptoms appear, call 911 right away
Stroke awareness is not only about recognizing an emergency. It’s also about understanding the health factors that can raise a person’s risk over time. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), high blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke, and other conditions such as high cholesterol, heart disease and diabetes are also contributing factors. However, managing these conditions through medical care, lifestyle changes and regular monitoring can make a huge difference.
For employers, that makes stroke awareness especially relevant. Caring for employees’ long-term health often begins with simple, consistent support such as encouraging preventive care, reminding employees to stay current on screenings and making it easier to access the services included in their benefits. Over time, those efforts can help employees take a more active role in protecting their health.
Clear communication matters just as much. When employees understand their benefits, know where to go with questions and feel confident using their coverage, they are more likely to seek preventive care before a more serious problem develops.
That is where the right benefits administration partner can make a difference. At PacFed Benefit Administrators, we help employers simplify benefits administration while making it easier for employees to understand and access their coverage. Bilingual member services, online tools, open enrollment support and day-to-day assistance all help create a smoother experience for both employers and members.
American Stroke Month is a reminder that every moment matters when the signs of a stroke appear. For employers, sharing that message in the workplace is an important way to support employees and show that their health truly matters.
Make us part of your team
When you’re ready to simplify employee benefits administration and provide a more supportive experience for your employees, PacFed is here to help. Call 800.753.0222 to start the conversation. We’d love to hear from you.
Pacific Federal is a Zenith American company and subsidiary of Harbour Benefit Holdings, Inc.
