The impact of worksite wellness in a small business setting.

OBJECTIVE This study evaluates the level of participation and effectiveness of a worksite wellness program in a small business setting. METHODS Three years of wellness participation and risk data from Lincoln Industries was analyzed. RESULTS All Lincoln Industry employees participated in at least some level of wellness programming. Significant improvements in body fat, blood pressure, and flexibility were observed across time. The largest improvements in risk were seen among older employees and those with the highest baseline values. CONCLUSIONS This small business was able to improve the health of the entire workforce population by integrating wellness deeply into their culture and operations. Replication of this program in other small business settings could have a large impact on public health since 60 million adults in the United States work in small businesses.