The public health role in the primary prevention of diabetes: recommendations from the chronic disease directors' project.

AIM: The article reports on the recommendations from the Diabetes Primary Prevention Project that was initiated and funded by the Division of Diabetes Translation, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and developed by the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors. METHOD: Essential components of statewide programs are delineated for effective interventions for diabetes primary prevention. The recommendations were derived from a structured process that is detailed on the basis of a cross-comparison of state-level diabetes prevention initiatives in six states where such programs were most developed. RESULTS: The recommendations focus on state-level partnerships, statewide program planning, required resources, policies, benchmarks for progress, and data collection. CONCLUSION: Illustrations are provided regarding how the project influenced the six participating states in further developing their programs for the primary prevention of diabetes.

Promising practices in employer health and productivity management efforts: findings from a benchmarking study.

OBJECTIVE: To identify key success factors related to employer-based health and productivity management (HPM) programs. METHODS: Data regarding promising practices in HPM were gathered via literature review, discussions with subject matter experts, online inventory, and site visits. RESULTS: Promising practices in HPM include 1) integrating HPM programs into the organization's operations; 2) simultaneously addressing individual, environmental, policy, and cultural factors affecting health and productivity; 3) targeting several health issues; 4) tailoring programs to address specific needs; 5) attaining high participation; 6) rigorously evaluating programs; and 7) communicating successful outcomes to key stakeholders. CONCLUSION: Increased efforts should be directed at disseminating the experiences of promising practices. However, more research is needed in this area, so that additional public and private funding is made available for applied research in "real-life" business settings. Finally, employers should be provided effective tools and resources to support their HPM efforts.