• Use surveys and research to set priorities.

Make sure the company’s wellness program supports the needs of its workforce through:

• Health risk assessments. Use aggregate data to gain a picture of which areas are most in need of improvement.
• Health plan utilization. An insurer or third-party administrator can provide aggregate data on how benefits are being used.
• Corporate surveys. Gain insights into programs employees find beneficial or would like to change.
• Wellness committee and wellness champions. Committees and champions generate grassroots support for wellness. Ask the employees involved for insights on what company wellness priorities should look like in the future.
• National statistics. There are some surprising differences across the United States when it comes to exercise, eating right, and the prevalence of obesity. Being aware of these statistics can help a company effectively target workplace wellness efforts. National statistics can be used in conjunction with employee surveys, wellness committee feedback, and biometric data from workplace wellness screenings to help set wellness program priorities and create a healthy workplace environment.

After reviewing the data and input, consider whether the company is targeting the conditions and health concerns that impact the greatest number of employees. Then set goals to address the areas of greatest concern.