Worksite wellness in state health agencies across the country: Policies and programs are implemented to improve health across the state

Background: ASTHO encourages all state health agencies, especially those serving in leadership roles, to consider the emotional and physical well-being of their employees and to consider how worksite wellness programs can support this effort. It is imperative that public health agencies serve as a model for other agencies and businesses in their community by ensuring the health of their employees. Objective: The purpose of this survey was to collect information on the worksite wellness initiatives within state health agencies. It was an opportunity to compare the infrastructure, capacity, policies, and programs across all states. It also informed ASTHO of areas where technical assistance could be provided. Methods: ASTHO developed and partnered with The George Washington University Public Health Graduation Program to disseminate a worksite wellness survey based on the questions and results from ASTHO's bi-annual State Profile survey. Surveys were targeted at worksite wellness coordinators and human resource directors. Results: Preliminary results find that 78% of respondents' smoking policies have a building footage requirement; 87% of states have insurance coverage for smoking cessation; 93.5% have healthy maternity policies in place, varying from paid maternity leave to ensuring designated space for lactation support; 19% have a formal policy on healthy catered events; 13% of states have menu labeling; 75% have weight loss or physical activity challenges; and individual states, such as Indiana and Massachusetts are implementing innovative programs to engage employers in worksite wellness with financial incentives. Discussion/Conclusions: Practices and policies varied in states and there were no clear regional trends.