A worker's health problems often negatively affect her job attendance. The American College of Sports Medicine notes that asthma, allergies, hypertension, diabetes and back problems are among common conditions that affect an employee's physical health. Depression can also have an impact on overall health. Some employees with significant health issues continue to work, although lowered productivity often results. Many firms have developed worker wellness programs to improve workers' health and the company's profitability.
Program Design
Some companies design their own worker wellness programs, while other firms utilize programs developed by health-focused organizations. The American Cancer Society, or ACS, has created a 10-week "Active for Life" program to help employees improve fitness levels in any workplace. Each participant examines her current activity level and incorporates realistic strategies to increase her physical activity. ACS reports that employees commonly adopt a teamwork approach, increasing each participant's likelihood of success.
Program Effectiveness
A successful worker wellness program depends on six non-negotiable tenets, notes a 2010 Texas A&M University study. Each notable program requires multiple-level management commitment, a close parallel with the company's corporate identity and quality program content developed for a broad audience. The wellness program must also include internal and external partner frameworks and be accessible to all employees. Finally, the company must consistently communicate the program's structure and benefits.
Obstacles to Participation
Program success depends on employees' consistent participation. A 2010 East Carolina University study followed 481 Aramark facilities employees invited to participate in a 10-week wellness program. Employees were asked to attend 30-minute health-related sessions with a registered dietitian. Only 10.4 percent of eligible attendees actually visited the program at least once. Employees' four most common reasons for non-attendance were non-appealing incentives, impractical locations, time issues and lack of interest in topics.
Employer Considerations
Employers must address legal and practical issues when considering implementation of a worker wellness program. Health plan rules and tax laws create structural constraints. Privacy laws and employers' inability to discriminate in program administration are also of concern. Practical considerations include the implementation of a wellness program for employees who may work different shifts, report to varied locations or experience other issues that influence program attendance.
References
- American College of Sports Medicine: The Evolution of Worksite Wellness
- American Cancer Society: Stay Healthy: "Active for Life"
- "Harvard Business Review"; What's the Hard Return on Employee Wellness Programs?; LL Berry, et al; Dec. 2010
- "Nutrition Research and Practice"; Barriers to Participation in a Worksite Wellness Program; A.L. Person, et. al; April 2010
- "Journal of Health & Life Sciences Law"; Getting Healthy: Issues to Consider Before Implementing a Wellness Program; AK Chancey; April 2009
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