Modern reality forces many women to balance career, family, and daily commitments, often pushing their health aside. Studies show that working women postpone important medical checkups due to lack of time, limited appointment availability, or insufficient awareness of the importance of preventive care. This can result in late diagnoses of diseases that could have been prevented or treated in their early stages.
In an era with increasing emphasis on employee well-being, it's crucial to ensure that health is part of the equation. The new initiative from Histadrut HaMa'of, Ma'of Le'Amit Association, and Ichilov Hospital WELL aims to make medical services accessible at the workplace and provide employees with life-saving tests without requiring them to leave the office.
Health at the workplace – how it works
Between March and May 2025, a first-of-its-kind initiative will operate nationwide. Mobile medical stations will be set up at various workplaces within several local authorities. Employees can get tested on-site, without needing to schedule appointments in advance and at a low cost, as the tests are subsidized by the Ma'of Le'Amit Association.
What do the stations include?
- Breast surgeon examination: An essential test for the early detection of breast cancer, the most common malignant disease among women. Early detection significantly increases the chances of recovery.
- Pre-diabetes test: Diagnosis of abnormal sugar levels, aiding in the early identification of diabetes and preventing health deterioration.
- Personal nutritional counseling: Healthier menus tailored by nutrition experts to assist in weight management and promote a balanced lifestyle.
A conceptual change – health as part of the workplace
This initiative reflects a shift in the approach to workplace welfare. While the emphasis in the past was on salary and financial benefits, more and more organizations now understand that employee health directly impacts the workplace. Many employers, especially local authorities with a high percentage of female employees, recognize that providing accessible health services at the workplace is a long-term investment, benefiting both employees and the organization.
When the tests come to the employees – there are no excuses
Attorney Gil Bar-Tal, Chairperson of Histadrut HaMa'of and Ma'of La'Amit Association, who leads the initiative, emphasizes its importance:
"Many women postpone checkups due to busy daily lives, and that's precisely what we're changing. Employee health is our priority, so we bring healthcare to them. Without the need to schedule appointments months in advance, commute in traffic, or miss work hours, all the important tests are available in one place, with maximum convenience. Accessibility and availability make it much easier to maintain health."
Accessible health - A healthier future
This new initiative not only benefits employee health but also reinforces the employer's role in employee welfare. Providing accessible medical services in the work environment is an innovative model for employer branding, highlighting caring, innovation, and genuine concern for the workforce. This project is a significant step forward in occupational welfare, serving as an example for other organizations in the economy. Improved health leads to healthier, happier, and more productive employees – a beneficial outcome for everyone.
This article was written in cooperation with Histadrut HaMaof