Why Did Employers Start Offering Health Insurance? 
That is a great question ! Employers reached a point where just offering a decent wage was often not enough to attract and keep a good workforce . Employees would leave for whatever job paid more . So employers added benefits to go along with the wages , in an effort to sweeten the pot . Paid vacations , and health insurance were no - brainers - if you are rested , happy and healthy , you will work better , and hopefully stay working longer . Good health insurance is still a major draw for many employees , especially those with kids . Thanks for asking ! 