With its people-first approach, HCL Healthcare creates environments where employees thrive, ensuring they contribute to their fullest potential. By delivering comprehensive, customised, and tech-driven healthcare solutions, they empower organisations to prioritise their workforce’s well-being, leading to higher productivity and long-term success.

Within their own company, wellness is deeply ingrained in the corporate culture. From fitness challenges to comprehensive wellness programs, the company ensures that employees prioritise health.

Wellness is an integral part of their identity. Any event, whether it's Diwali or a team celebration, begins with a health challenge. Employees participate in activities, even in traditional attire.

The company also boasts a strong gender-inclusive approach to wellness. With 54% female employee participation in sports and fitness events, they ensure equal representation in cricket, football, and other tournaments, often winning company-wide championships.

For us, fitness is non-negotiable, says Sudeep Sharma, Head, HR, Learning and Administration, HCL Healthcare. “If we are fit, we can ensure our clients' employees stay fit too. This philosophy is deeply ingrained in our work culture.”

He shares that one of the most prestigious initiatives at HCL Healthcare is the Green Apple Award, which recognises employees who have made significant health transformations. It's not just about weight loss; any health parameters, such as employees who have reduced cholesterol, reversed diabetes, or improved their body fat ratio, are nominated under the Green Apple Award. “This award has been presented by renowned sports figures like Mary Kom and Suresh Raina, making it a highly coveted recognition within our organisation,” informs Sudeep.

Impact on Employee Retention & Engagement

He acknowledges that a robust healthcare and wellness strategy has profoundly impacted HCL Healthcare’s employee retention. In the healthcare industry, attrition rates are extremely high, with nursing professionals experiencing up to 70% turnover in hospitals. However, at HCL Healthcare, nursing attrition remains below 15%, and doctor attrition is under 25% — a stark contrast to industry norms.

Beyond direct retention, the company’s work-life balance initiatives have also contributed to long-term employee engagement. 

“Consider how you use your annual leave. If most of it is spent on illness rather than family time, travel, or personal growth, it affects your overall quality of life. By prioritizing preventive healthcare, we help employees stay healthier and use their time for things that truly matter,” he adds.

A Strong Focus on Mental Health

In addition to physical health, mental wellness is gaining priority. HCL Healthcare has observed that relationship issues—with parents, spouses, or partners—are among the top concerns for which employees seek help. 

Sudeep shares that surprisingly, 55-60% of employees who reach out for mental health support cite relationship stress as their primary concern. It is eye-opening to see how personal challenges impact professional well-being.

To ensure complete confidentiality, mental health consultations are conducted through a third party, allowing employees to seek help without fear of judgment. “Although we have psychologists on our team, we outsource mental health support for our employees to maintain trust and confidentiality. No employee details are shared unless there is a life-threat situation. This anonymity has encouraged more employees to seek help,” he explains.

Revolutionizing Employee Health as a Business Strategy

Wellness at HCL Healthcare isn’t just an employee perk—it’s a business strategy that impacts culture, retention, and productivity.

We often ask candidates, "Do you check a company's healthcare benefits the same way you check their compensation package?" Many people don't—but they should. As per Sudeep, a strong health plan isn't just about insurance; it's about preventing medical emergencies, reducing financial stress, and ensuring long-term well-being.

He also added that “At HCL Healthcare, wellness isn’t just a program—it’s a way of life. The organisation actively integrates health into daily routines, encouraging employees to lead by example. Our leadership team is highly fitness-driven, with our CEO being a cyclist, a marathon runner, and an advocate for workplace wellness. Employees see this commitment and feel inspired to prioritise their health.”

Making Wellness a Corporate Priority

As organisations rethink employee well-being beyond insurance policies, HCL Healthcare offers a compelling blueprint for integrating wellness into organisational culture.

Sudeep emphasises “If you want a high-performing workforce, you need a healthy workforce. Whether you promote preventive healthcare, mental wellness, or fitness challenges, the key is to embed wellness into the company's DNA—not just offer it as an afterthought."

With attrition rates lower than the industry average, a thriving wellness culture, and a strong digital-first healthcare approach, HCL Healthcare is proving that investing in employee health isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a competitive advantage.

Join us at People Matters TechHR India 2025 at Yashobhoomi Convention Center, New Delhi, and become part of a movement to shape the future of work, business, and leadership.