Using RE-AIM to evaluate community-driven worksite wellness: Lessons from LiveWell Colorado

Evaluating the effectiveness of community driven interventions requires assessment of both implementation and outcome data. Particularly during tough economic times, it is critical to assess whether those most in need are reached; whether interventions are implemented in a way that will maximize their effectiveness; and whether successfully implemented interventions are likely to be sustained. LiveWell Colorado (LWC) funds primarily low income and ethnically diverse communities to adopt healthy eating and active living obesity-reduction strategies in 4 key sectors: community, schools, healthcare and worksites. This presentation will focus on strategies that are implemented in the worksite sector for 25 LWC communities. We evaluate worksite wellness strategies using the RE-AIM framework (reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance) to assess whether the strategies implemented in high risk populations are likely to impact healthy eating and active living behavior. Multiple case studies derived through community annual progress reports, observation data, and field visit notes will be used to analyze worksite strategy outcomes across the five RE-AIM dimensions. We will discuss how RE-AIM is used to describe and evaluate reach and representativeness of participants and settings, as well as predict sustainability—all critical for the success of worksite wellness interventions. We will also address limitations and lessons learned in using the model. Use of RE-AIM as a decision-tool for community groups, public health professionals and employers when designing effective worksite wellness strategies will be emphasized.