Characteristics of Successful
and Cost-Effective
Health Promotion Programs

Very few wellness programs succeed in spite of themselves. Following are some key elements that many successful programs have.

All Employees are Included

• Make educational materials and programs available to all employees, not just selected employee groups.

Assess Health Needs

• Survey about interests in wellness and programs.
• In person screening by health professionals of employees for blood pressure, cholesterol, and to obtain information about smoking, weight, exercise, and interests.

Management Support

• Obtain support from senior management, without it program may not succeed.
• Include middle management
• Include Union representatives

High Participation

• Program clearly states it is voluntary and confidential.
• Target high participation as a goal of the program.

Program is Comprehensive

• Deals with multiple health issues and health risks.
• Works to improve the environment of worksite.
• Provide long-term support.
• Something for everyone.
• Gives choices - individual counseling, guided self-help, small group, and classes offered.
• Targets both employees and worksite environment.

Flexible and Adaptable

• Responds to needs of employees.
• Uses local resources from company and community.
• Understands and respects corporate culture.

Program Emphasizes Follow-up

• Persistent outreach to at risk employees through multiple contacts via mailings, telephone calls, and personal contacts.
• Physician referral for medically at risk employees.

Defines Measurable Objectives

• Determine the baseline status of the organization as a whole.

Management Reports

• Determine management's expectations.
• Provide regular summary reports.
• Share positive feedback on program progress and from participants own success stories.