An important indicator of the success of a worksite wellness program is the support of senior management. To assess the level of support by senior management the following questions need to be answered:
(Healthy Workforce 2010, 2001).
An analysis of factors that affect employee participation in worksite wellness programs found management support influenced employee participation levels, especially among blue collar workers. A study of the views of various levels of managers on worksite wellness programs shows the majority agree these programs are important, but cite lack of time and production conflicts as the most likely barriers. When asked their views on wellness programs, responses varied by level of management. Senior managers were more likely to believe wellness programs will help reduce healthcare costs. Middle managers were more likely to believe lack of management interest is a barrier. Line supervisors were most likely to view production conflicts as a barrier. Researchers felt the work performed by the different managerial levels influence their perceptions of barriers and benefits of worksite wellness programs (Linnan et al., 2007). These perceptions should be taken into consideration when gaining support for wellness programs.
Presenting data from and descriptions of programs run by competitors or other organizations may be useful in gaining management support (Healthy Workforce 2010, 2001).