CommonwealthofMassachusetts-PartnersforaHealthier.doc

 Commonwealth of MassachusettsDepartment of Public Health Worksite Wellness Program Toolkit Version 2.0, October 2008  Credits This toolkit was developed by the Worksite Wellness team at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health in collaboration with Mari Ryan of Advancing Wellness. Feedback If you have questions on the content of this Toolkit, or would like to provide feedback or results from using this guide email Lisa Erck or Maria Bettencourt. Version 2.0, October 2008 Table of Contents Table of Contents 4 Introduction 5 Introduction 6 Types of Worksite Wellness Programs 9 Overview of Program Development Cycle 11 Step 1 Obtain Mandate for Wellness Program 13 Step 2 Compose Wellness Team 23 Step 3 Research Discovery/ Identify Needs 34 Step 4 Formulate Goals Objectives 75 Step 5 Plan Development 86 Step 6 Plan Approval 158 Step 7 Implement the Plan 158 Bibliography 158  Introduction Introduction Worksite Wellness Programs in Massachusetts Today Massachusetts, similar to most of the nation, is facing an increased burden of illness related to a variety of risk factors and chronic conditions. One in every three Massachusetts adults is affected by a chronic disease, including obesity, asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or stroke. Citation, Health, 2006. While this chronic disease burden seems astounding, the economic burden is even more overwhelming. In 2005, total hospital charges approached the 3.2 billion dollar mark for chronic diseases. Citation, Policy, Fiscal Year 2005. Having a healthier workforce benefits both employers and employees. There is expanding evidence that Worksite Wellness Programs not only improve individual employee health but also. 1. reduce sick leave absenteeism by 28%, 2. reduce healthcare costs by 26%, 3. reduce workers’ compensation by 30%, 4. and produce a 5.93$ to 1$ savings to cost ratio. Citation, Chapman L. S., 2003. The impact of Worksite Wellness Programs on adults and their families can be significant co