New research shows that employer wellness programs have the potential to reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes when they combine biometric and laboratory screening.
The research comes from Quest Diagnostics, which provides diagnostic services. Quest looked at three years of de-identified biometric and laboratory test results for at-risk employees and spouses enrolled in employee wellness programs and digital intervention programs. One-third (32%) of participants who showed signs of prediabetes achieved normal blood sugar levels following the program.
Additionally, participants saw a significant decline in triglycerides and a reduction in the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Among the participants, 29% lost at least 5% body weight.
The study group included 107 at-risk employees who participated in a 16-week diabetes prevention program. The program focused on behavior modification and education.
“Many employers are eager to implement employee wellness programs that drive better health and cost outcomes, but are unsure of how best to achieve these goals,” said Charles E. Birse, PhD, Scientific Director at Quest Diagnostics and lead researcher. “This study demonstrates a viable two-step solution – identifying people at higher risk using objective lab and biometric measures and then supporting their access to programs to modify behaviors and thereby reduce those risks.”
Employee wellness programs are quickly becoming a standard workplace benefit. More than 9 out of 10 businesses offer employees at least one wellness initiative. According to a study from the University of Louisville, every dollar invested in wellness generates $7 in healthcare savings.
But one challenge companies face is getting employees to participate. Wellness programs that combine biometrics and laboratory screening can reduce the risk of chronic conditions, but if no one participates, these beneficial effects cannot be realized.
Reaction, an employee wellness program based in Tel Aviv, Israel and San Francisco, CA, aims to change that.
Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all program, Reaction assess the wellness needs of companies and customizes programs based on those needs. Employees are offered individually customized wellness paths and are matched with certified experts to help them reach their goals. These experts provide employees with support and a roadmap to success. They can also track employee progress.
Reaction has seen great success in Israel and is now expanding to the U.S. The company’s model could help improve employee participation rates in wellness programs and disrupt an industry that is in need of change.
