What's important is that a wellness program can be easily tailored to specific needs or wants. Once those are determined, Chenowith said, a company should take stock of its budget and facilities. Once all the data have been collected and evaluated, a company needs to make a decision, according to Chenowith. Also important is that a company bases its program on employee interests. Chenowith said incentives, usually taking the form of cost- sharing, are sometimes necessary to get employees involved.
Incentives show a commitment from the organization.
Time commitments vary, with some programs conducted on an ongoing basis and some conducted quarterly. Consultant-based programs are more likely to provide better support services by offering outlets to participants for their concerns and questions. Online delivery of services or mail-only support can leave employees out. But the program should change behavior, and that's not easy. This story originally appeared in The Cincinnati Business Courier.