Keys to an Effective Wellness Program

According to the National Wellness Institute, "Wellness is an active process of becoming aware of, and making choices toward, a more successful existence." Wellness is no longer just flu shots and stress talks. To enjoy all the benefits a wellness program has to offer companies today, you must create a culture of wellness. The following items have proven effective in making a wellness program part of the company culture. 

• Awareness - Regular promotion, communication, and education are key to success.
• Engaged leadership - Executive and department level sponsorship and commitment will help drive participation and program longevity.
• Identification of risk - A good health risk assessment and bio-metric testing will help educate high risk employees to areas of risk.
• Assistance with setup - Employees benefit from customized fitness, nutrition and lifestyle plans.
• Tracking and monitoring - Promotes accountability and develops healthy habits.
• Specialized behavioral programs - Tobacco, and stress management programs help target specific costly behaviors.
• Expert coaching and advice - Certified personal trainers, registered dieticians and mental health professionals provide ongoing assistance.
• Effective incentives - Team contests and performance rewards can be combined to increase participation.