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Comprehensive Wellness/Health Promotion Programs

Goetzel et al. suggest that the five key elements of a comprehensive wellness program include[1]:

1. Health Education

2. Links to Related Employee Services

3. Supportive Physical and Social Environments for Health Improvement

4. Integration of Health Promotion into the Organization’s Culture

5. Employee Screenings with Adequate Treatment and Follow-up

The study by Goetzel et al. also included information gathered from an expert panel asked to suggest promising practices in general health and productivity management programs. Several additional themes emerged from the panel and should be considered as employers move forward in the development and implementation of wellness and health promotion programs. Several of these themes include implementing meaningful incentives to encourage participation, communicating program results in a relevant manner, and being able to measure success.

[1] Goetzel RZ, et al. Promising practices in employer health and productivity management efforts: findings from a benchmarking study. J of Occup & Environ Med. 2007 Feb; 49(2): 111-130.