Workplace Program can Significantly Impact Overweight and Obesity
March 2, 2007
Individuals and businesses alike pay dearly for overweight and obesity. Both
conditions are associated with our nation’s increase in cardiovascular disease,
diabetes, certain forms of cancer, arthritis, musculoskeletal pain---even
depression. And the National Business Group on Health estimates the annual cost
of obesity to US companies to be nearly $13 billion. With such staggering health
and financial implications, employers have a vested interest in helping workers
achieve and maintain a healthier weight.
Despite the approximately $46 billion dollars a year Americans spend on diet foods and diet-related merchandise, our population continues to get heavier. That’s not surprising considering research shows that for a weight loss program to be successful it must include assessment and monitoring along with dietary, behavioral, cognitive, socio cultural and activity therapy for at least six months. Additionally, weight maintenance programs require assessment, monitoring and relapse therapy for three to five years. Individuals in programs that teach how to incorporate lifestyle changes into their busy routines have the greatest chance for a successful outcome.
Inova WeightNET is a comprehensive program that meets these criteria in addressing all aspects of weight management. Proven strategies are tailored to individual participants based on assessments of health risks, learning styles, readiness, lifestyle patterns and knowledge. Participants receive nutrition and activity education, cognitive and behavioral training, as well as goal setting and process monitoring via online classes and e-mails. Inova care managers provide individualized coaching to each participant.
Employers who offer Inova WeightNET can expect the following from their workers:
- Decreased chances for developing weight-related medical conditions
- Decreased health insurance claims
- Reduced health-related absenteeism
- Increased productivity
- Increased level of satisfaction
“The outcomes speak for themselves…76 percent of participants during 2006 reported losing weight with the assistance of their Inova WeightNET coach,” says Karen Gerndt, program manager, Inova WeightNET. “The impact of this program also reaches into the home with more than half of the participants stating that their healthful lifestyle changes have also positively affected their family.”
Once an employee registers for Inova WeightNET, a care manager (personal weight coach) contacts the participant by email. The participant then reviews core classes online under the coach’s guidance. Six weeks after beginning the program an individualized weight loss plan is developed. Email contact continues on a weekly basis, along with occasional phone calls throughout the program.
Inova WeightNET has a proven track record in the creation, implementation, and evaluation of weight management programs that make the difference in outcomes, costs, and satisfaction. Program features include the following:
- Registration onsite and online
- Individualized weight management plan
- Individualized care manager support by e-mail and phone
- Around-the-clock access to online information, communication and education
- Monthly newsletters, classes and other educational resources
- Quarterly onsite physical assessments (weight, body composition, blood pressure and waist and hip measurements)
Confidentiality is crucial to the success and credibility of Inova WeightNET. Therefore, no information is released to anyone outside of the program without the written consent of the employee.
For more information about Inova WeightNET and a free quote, please contact Jeff Carr at 703-321-2955 or jeffrey.carr@inova.org.
Articles are written by professional journalists, who strive to present reliable health information. They are not intended to be a substitute for medical care and advice.
