Impact of a Web-Based Worksite Health Promotion Program on Absenteeism

Objective: To evaluate the effect of participation in a comprehensive, Web-based worksite health promotion program on absenteeism. Methods: Study population consists of Dutch workers employed at a large financial services company. Linear regression was used to assess the impact of program attendance on the difference between baseline and follow-up absenteeism rates, controlling for gender, age, job level, years of employment, and noncompletion of the program. Results: Data from 20,797 individuals were analyzed; 3826 individuals enrolled in the program during the study period. A 20.3% reduction in absenteeism was shown among program attendees compared with nonparticipants during a median follow-up period of 23.3 months. Conclusions: Participating in the worksite health promotion program led to an immediate reduction in absenteeism. Improved psychological well-being, increased exercise, and weight reduction are possible pathways toward this reduction.

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