CME AVAILABLE FOR THIS ARTICLE AT ACOEM.ORG Implementation of a Worksite Wellness Program Targeting Small Businesses The Pinnacol Assurance Health Risk Management Study

Objective: To assess small business adoption and need for a worksite well-ness program in a longitudinal study of health risks, productivity, workers’ compensation rates, and claims costs. Methods: Health risk assessment data from 6507 employees in 260 companies were examined. Employer and em-ployee data are reported as frequencies, with means and standard deviations reported when applicable. Results: Of the 260 companies enrolled in the health risk management program, 71 % continued more than 1 year, with 97% reporting that worker wellness improves worker safety. Of 6507 participating employees, 34.3 % were overweight and 25.6 % obese. Approximately one in five participants reported depression. Potentially modifiable conditions af-fecting 15 % or more of enrollees include chronic fatigue, sleeping problems, headaches, arthritis, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertension. Conclusions: Small businesses are a suitable target for the introduction of health promotion programs. A s the health of the nation declines and the costs of medicalcare rise, interest in health and wellness promotion in the work