Member content: musculoskeletal health

It makes sense for super funds to support conversations with members which drive positive lifestyle changes and promote good health.

One of the ways our partnership can enable this is through targeted health content that engages and educates, nudging members to take control of their health and take action where needed.

Throughout the year, there are numerous opportunities to engage with members on their health – both during public campaigns and at key life milestones which provide a natural segue into health conversations.

Why focus on musculoskeletal health?

At TAL, musculoskeletal conditions were the fourth highest area for accepted claims across our portfolio in our last financial year.

In the broader community context, the Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates there were more than 6.9 million or 27% of Australians affected by chronic musculoskeletal conditions in the 2020-21. Of these people, 3.9 million (16%) had back problems.

In 2023, musculoskeletal conditions accounted for 12.8% of the total disease burden in Australia and was the leading cause of non-fatal disease burden accounting for 7.9%.

What can we do?

The good news is that there are simple steps that can be taken to avoid these conditions including managing weight, stopping smoking and reducing occupational hazards.

Together, we have an important role to play in ensuring members engage with their health so they can live life to the fullest – not only while they’re working, but into retirement as well. We can do that by providing content to support your members education and help nudge them to consider their personal circumstances.

Take action

Visit our Member Content page to access all our Health for Life content toolkits where you can download content to use in your member engagement and education communications.

TAL’s financial year is from 1 April 2022 and 31 March 2023

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Chronic musculoskeletal conditions, 2023