A review of research methods used to examine employee assistance program delivery options

Evaluations of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) have traditionally examined the provision of clinical services to employees. Using the five steps in a comprehensive EAP evaluation as the framework, a review of the literature is conducted with a focus on EAP delivery options. More than half of the 48 studies reviewed used a case study approach with significantly fewer cost-benefit studies, process evaluations and needs assessments appearing. Employee Assistance Programs provided by on-staff professionals were the most frequently discussed delivery option though this is not the most dominant form of EAP provision in the field. A need exists for more critical and comprehensive evaluations of EAPs especially in determining if the most appropriate delivery mechanisms are being used by organizations.