Using a return-on-investment estimation model to evaluate outcomes from an obesity management worksite health promotion program.
OBJECTIVE
Certain modifiable risk factors lead to higher health care costs and reduced worker productivity. A predictive return-on-investment (ROI) model was applied to an obesity management intervention to demonstrate the use of econometric modeling in establishing financial justification for worksite health promotion.


METHODS
Self-reported risk factors (n = 890) were analyzed using chi2 and t test methods. Changes in risk factors, demographics, and financial measures comprised the model inputs that determined medical and productivity savings.


RESULTS
Over 1 year, 7 of 10 health risks decreased. Of total projected savings ($311,755), 59% were attributed to reduced health care expenditures ($184,582) and 41% resulted from productivity improvements ($127,173), a $1.17 to $1.00 ROI.


CONCLUSIONS
Using an ROI model to project program savings is a practical way to provide financial justification for investment in worksite health promotion when risk reduction data are available.
Baker
Kristin M
KM
Health and Productivity Research, Thomson Reuters, Washington, DC, USA.
Goetzel
Ron Z
RZ
Pei
Xiaofei
X
Weiss
Audrey J
AJ
Bowen
Jennie
J
Tabrizi
Maryam J
MJ
Nelson
Craig F
CF
Metz
R Douglas
RD
Pelletier
Kenneth R
KR
Thompson
Elizabeth
E
D000328:Adult; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis / Q000191:economics; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000191:economics*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D018803:Models, Economic; D009765:Obesity / Q000628:therapy*; D016272:Occupational Health; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care / Q000191:economics*; D040242:Risk Reduction Behavior; D017132:Workplace