SSQ Insurance announced on Oct. 10 that it has partnered with Le Pôle Santé – HEC Montréal to study the link between health and wellness management practices in the workplace and the most common insurance claims made by employees.

SSQ says it hopes that its participation in the project will shed light on the impact that corporate practices have on the health of individuals, and help participating companies apply the findings to improve the health and wellness of their employees.

Data gathered from some SSQ group insurance plan holders, on a voluntary and confidential basis, will be used “to identify promising health and wellness workplace management strategies,” says the insurer. The study will look at efforts to “curb financial, human and social costs, improve quality of life at work as well as bolster performance and productivity,” says the insurer.

"Health problems at work and professional burnouts plague all sectors. We are very proud to partner up with Le Pôle Santé – HEC Montréal in order to help companies fight mental health issues and take concrete action for the health and wellness of their employees. This initiative is a testament to SSQ Insurance's concern for its customers' health," said Geneviève Fortier, Senior Vice-President – Sales and Distribution, SSQ Insurance.