The purpose of the HRA (health risk assessment) is to ascertain your health rating. Your employer uses the HRA to determine your eligibility for health insurance. You can receive a score ranging from High Risk to Excellent. While filling out the HRA, it shows you steps of how to raise your health score. The HRA is not a replacement for medical advice.

Updating

The HRA determines if you are at risk for the particular job you are currently working. This process can also determine if you are getting the necessary health care you need. The first time you fill out the application, it serves as your baseline. After the baseline application, you will receive notification to fill out the HRA again according to when your employer requires it. Depending on your employer, you can update your HRA every 90 days, 6 months or once per year. Prior to updating, during your waiting period, the HRA gives you ideas to help you make lifestyle changes directed to enhance your score and health. Once you are able to update, you will be asked questions about changes in your lifestyle. Many employers offer this service online. You will login to the site, access your information and make any necessary changes. At this point, you will be able to see any changes in your rating. You will be advised of any additional health change steps you need to take for the next year. You can access your HRA at any time.

Questions on the HRA

Prior to filling out your health assessment, you will need specific information handy. These include your blood pressure, date of last check-up, date of last cancer screenings, total cholesterol and HDL information. Other questions such as tobacco use, chronic conditions, alcohol use and sexual behavior are included. The results of this process are more accurate if you have this information available while filling out the form. You will answer many questions about your health besides the pertinent information above. Should something of concern show on your report, you will be contacted. With your consent, your health care practitioner will be contacted. You will need to give consent for your information to be shared with anyone other than your employer.

Why Does Your Employer Need the HRA

Your employer uses this information to help you determine your most positive health course and to determine the best health insurance specific to your needs.

Source:

Business Management Daily

UTMB Health Promotion Program

University of Michigan: FAQ about HRAs

Resource:

NAHU: Health Risk Assessment

University of Iowa: Health Assessments