Do only the healthy intend to participate in worksite health promotion?

Abstract

Few companies or organizations involved in health promotion have addressed the major question of whether they are reaching the employees with the greatest health needs or those who could benefit most from these efforts. The popular view that only individuals who are already physically fit and healthy participate in worksite wellness programs was critically examined. Data from 523 survey respondents at the University of Oregon were analyzed to determine whether employees differed on health-related characteristics and their interest in attending a worksite health promotion program. Comparisons between program participant "intenders" and "nonintenders" revealed that both groups had similar lifestyle habits, preventive health practices, and health status profiles. Significant differences were more related to age and perceptions about their physical and emotional health status. Implications for health risk reduction program planning in the work setting are discussed.