A new study by Rivia Network on Ghana’s socio-medical landscape has identified the top five health conditions contributing to worker absenteeism in the country.

According to the research, the leading causes of absenteeism are illness, mental health issues, low workplace engagement, work-related stress, and job hunting.

The report reveals that illness accounts for up to 65% of absenteeism, followed by mental health issues at 43%, work-related stress at 42%, low workplace engagement at 33%, and job hunting at 24%.

The data, as shared by Rivia Network, was gathered from anonymous user data within the network, as well as findings from blood donation drives, health screenings, and community outreach programmes.

To address the situation, Rivia Network has suggested that the government consider policies such as tax incentives for corporate health programmes, mandatory subsidised annual health screenings promoted by companies, unions, and associations, and the enforcement of food labelling laws to reduce salt and sugar intake.

The report also recommends that employers prioritise health screenings for chronic diseases, stress management, mental health support, fitness programmes, and comprehensive employee health benefits.

Rivia Network operates a rapidly growing network of tech-powered primary care clinics in Ghana, offering membership-based healthcare tailored for individuals, families, and companies.