Workplace Wellness Programs Save $3.27 in Health Care Costs for Each  Dollar Invested

More companies are offering workplace disease prevention and wellness programs. In 2006, 19 percent of companies with 500 or more workers reported offering wellness programs. A 2008 survey of large manufacturing employers reported that 77 percent offered some kind of formal health and wellness program. Despite the popularity of these programs, many employers are uncertain regarding the impact on employee health and health care costs. However, a new meta-analysis of the literature on costs and savings associated with these programs found that medical costs fall about $3.27 for each dollar invested in wellness programs. Additionally, employee absenteeism costs fall approximately $2.73 for every dollar spent. This analysis, published online in the journal Health Affairs, examined 32 studies of wellness programs in an array of industries and settings including schools and universities.

The authors note that the majority of these programs started with an employee health risk assessment. Employers then implemented a number of different programs that included educational materials, individual counseling and group sessions. Incentive program were also frequently employed to support health-related behavior change. Many of these programs targeted lifestyle issues such as weight management and tobacco cessation. While the meta-analysis examined studies of the wellness programs of large employers, it is unclear whether similar benefits could be achieved by smaller organizations that might not have the capacity to implement similar programs. The authors emphasize the need for further investigation to determine which types of programs and interventions produce the best results. Additionally, more studies are needed to identify how different types of programs fit specific industries and populations, and whether this level of savings could be achieved by smaller organizations. Read more.