Speaking at the CIPD Annual conference (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) in Kilkenny on the area of addiction in the workplace Dr Bernadette Carr, Medical Director Vhi Healthcare said:
"Alcohol and drug addiction are on the rise in Ireland and impacts all social classes and crosses the urban/ rural divide. In 2007, substance abuse and in particular Ireland's love affair with cocaine was catapulted into the spotlight. This has led to an increased awareness of the problem and more open discussion than in the past where there was a greater stigma attached to substance addiction. Employers need to support employees and help them resolve and get treatment for their addiction problems."
Alcoholic disorders accounted for 14% of all and 15% of first admissions to psychiatric hospitals in Ireland in 2003. Admissions were highest in the 25-44 age groups. The highest number of people in Ireland who used cocaine was in the 15-34 age groups. (Source: Health Research Board ).
Alcohol problems are calculated to cost the country €2.4 billion per annum in:
- Lost productivity ( the majority).
- Health related costs of direct alcohol damage.
- Auto accidents.
- Violence and crime.
- Direct treatment costs.
There is a disturbing trend in alcohol consumption over the last 10 years:
Between 1994 and 2004 there was an increase in overall adult consumption of 17%. The trend continues to rise with a further 2.7% increase last year.
Alcohol related deaths increased by 00% in the same 10 years (1994-2004).
Irish people are 3 times more likely than the EU average to binge drink and this binge pattern of drinking most influences lost days at work such as "Missed Mondays".
According to Dr Bernadette Carr:
"In an IBEC report issued in 2004 entitled 'Employee Absenteeism: A Guide to Managing Absence' it was estimated that absence from work costs Irish Businesses about €1.5 billion a year. However, this figure could be considered conservative if you factor in the additional impact on productivity, team work and levels of employee engagement".
According to Dr Carr: "Vhi Healthcare has been monitoring this growing problem and considering how best we as the market leader in the health insurance market with over 1.5 million members can partner with the service providers and employers in helping to deal with this issue. "
Earlier this year, Vhi Healthcare announced a partnership with St Patrick's Hospital and have committed to supporting a wide range of initiatives which will promote the development of multi-disciplinary outpatient facilities, community based mental health services and online support services . Further details will be announced later in the year.
She continued: "As a first step Vhi Healthcare will provide cover for clinical psychology services from 1st July 2008 across a range of products and will be the first health insurer to do so. Furthermore, we are developing Employment Assistance Programmes for companies tailored for employees with addiction problems."
Source: Finfacts.ie 21 May 2008
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