Actions by both the company and the individual are the key to success

Map, act – and evaluate. To work effectively with health and work environment in companies, Wellr uses a three-step cycle. This is the model that has proven to be the most effective.

Step 1: Map and analyze. To be able to target measures where they are most needed, it is important that you first carry out a current-state analysis to understand how your employees are doing. We call this a digital health check or current-state analysis.

Step 2: Plan and act. Once you know where your challenges lie in terms of health and work environment, the next step is to set up a plan for how these should be addressed. It should include which initiatives will be implemented and what goals you have.

Step 3: Follow-up and evaluation. Following up on your initiatives shows both the results of the work and which measures have been most successful.

And it is precisely health assessments in combination with other initiatives that have the strongest scientific support for promoting health in workplaces. This combination has a range of positive effects on both health behaviors and sickness absence.

One of the biggest advantages is that you as an employer have the opportunity to tailor measures for specific individuals, work groups, or problem areas identified in the health assessments. Companies that simultaneously work with health-promoting messages and information, encourage physical activity, and make adjustments to the work environment will see positive effects on employees’ health. The aim should be to change lifestyle habits to prevent future ill health, rather than working reactively.

To address shortcomings in the organization, it is also important to act at both company and individual level. Research shows that if you want to make a major difference, the measures must also be accessible at the individual level. The individual must become aware of their situation, receive the right tools to make a lifestyle change, as well as motivation and follow-up. Individualized measures can include anything from CBT therapy, diet and weight-loss programs, physical activity programs, tobacco cessation, and rehabilitation for pain and injuries. These programs need to meet three criteria to achieve effective results: They must be adapted to the individual’s needs, level of ambition, and circumstances. At company level, measures can range from leadership training to launching various competitions to promote physical activity.