The management team of Novartis South Africa took a proactive stance in the fight against HIV and Aids. In quarter one of 2001, an AIDS Committee was setup with representation across divisions, business units, including representatives from the workers' union (CEPPAWU). In order to avoid stigmatism, the name of the committee was subsequently changed to the Novartis Wellness Committee.
Towards the end of 2001, the head of Novartis globally, Dr Daniel Vasella, made the following statement: "Novartis will provide prevention, diagnosis, treatment and counselling services for its employees and immediate family members (nucleus family) for HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria in developing countries. The scope and range of services as well as eligibility (part-time employees, etc.) are to be defined in dialogue with the respective group companies."
Novartis South Africa took the following actions:
A Dread Disease Policy was put in place, covering HIV/AIDS. The committee embarked on a major awareness campaign. The committee soon realised its lack of expertise and shortcomings in dealing with the magnitude of HIV/AIDS, its impact and related issues and after thorough consultation, enlisted the assistance of an outside company specialising in health interventions in the workplace. In conjunction with our service provider, Novartis South Africa launched a "wellness @ work" programme offering: – 24-hour support line manned by medically qualified personnel who will handle any call related to wellness with a particular focus on HIV/AIDS. Should professional help be required, the employee will be referred to an appropriate practitioner. The Novartis "wellness @ work" programme provides a dedicated HIV/AIDS information facility which covers peer education and sensitisation, voluntary testing, pre- and post-testing counselling. Information on other health issues is also provided.
The "wellness @ work" Employee Programme was launched on 30 November 2001 to coincide with World Aids Day on 1 December. Sensitisation workshops commenced in early February 2002. The purpose of the sensitisation workshop is to make people more aware of the benefits that the programme offers. Novartis employees have a direct link to the 24-hour Health Friends help line.
Annual World Aids Day activities always focus on HIV/Aids, the benefits of knowing your HIV status, the importance of voluntary counselling and testing as well as general health and well-being issues.
The Novartis "wellness @ work" programme is a major employee benefit, not only for each and every Novartis associate, but also for the children and spouses or permanent partners of employees.