ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To assess small business adoption and need for a worksite wellness 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 employee 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 affecting 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.
Subject(s)
Health Behavior , Health Promotion , Life Style , Occupational Health , Safety , Small Business/statistics & numerical data , Adolescent , Adult , Aged , Alcohol Drinking , Body Mass Index , Colorado , Exercise , Female , Fruit , Health Status , Humans , Longitudinal Studies , Male , Middle Aged , Risk Assessment , Sleep , Smoking , Vegetables , Workplace , Young AdultABSTRACT
The development of natural gas wells is rapidly increasing, yet little is known about associated exposures and potential public health consequences. We used health impact assessment (HIA) to provide decision-makers with information to promote public health at a time of rapid decision making for natural gas development. We have reported that natural gas development may expose local residents to air and water contamination, industrial noise and traffic, and community changes. We have provided more than 90 recommendations for preventing or decreasing health impacts associated with these exposures. We also have reflected on the lessons learned from conducting an HIA in a politically charged environment. Finally, we have demonstrated that despite the challenges, HIA can successfully enhance public health policymaking.
Subject(s)
Environmental Exposure/analysis , Extraction and Processing Industry/standards , Health Impact Assessment/methods , Natural Gas/adverse effects , Residence Characteristics , Colorado , Decision Making , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Health Impact Assessment/statistics & numerical data , Humans , PoliticsABSTRACT
A Web-based electronic health record (EHR) system was compared with traditional paper-based documentation and vaccination tracking during the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic. In a cohort of 8,411 healthcare network employees, EHRs improved completeness of self-reported contraindication data and reduced medical discrepancies. Vaccination program quality and accuracy are enhanced by EHRs.
