Insurance provider UnitedHealthcare has introduced a new wellness program called “UnitedHealthcare Rewards”, aimed at encouraging owners of activity trackers like the Apple Watch and iPhone to live healthier lives. Participants can earn up to $1,000 annually by meeting daily health goals and completing related activities.
The company noted that despite 90% of employees having access to workplace wellness programs, only 23% take advantage of them. The UnitedHealthcare Rewards program is an effort to increase engagement and promote a healthier lifestyle.
With the program, select employers offering fully insured plans now have the opportunity for their members to earn up to $1,000 in cash each year. To participate, members simply need a compatible activity tracker such as the Apple Watch, or a smartphone like an iPhone, and are required to complete daily activities.
The latest version of watchOS, 9, has enhanced the sleep tracking capabilities of compatible Apple Watch models through the Sleep app. By wearing the smartwatch to bed, users can now track their sleep stages, including REM, Core, and Deep sleep, as well as the times when they have awakened.