Cost-effectiveness of a Workplace-based Incentivized Weight Loss Program

Objective: To evaluate the cost-effectiveness ratios of a nursing home-based incentivized Behavioral Weight Management Program (BWMP) from the employer's perspective.

Methods: Seventy-two overweight and obese health care workers completed the BWMP (n = 35 incentivized; n = 37 nonincentivized). Weight change outcomes were compared for the pre- (0) and postintervention (28 weeks) follow-up periods within and between sites. Comprehensive estimates of BWMP direct program costs and avoided costs of absenteeism and productivity improvements were estimated to evaluate a business case.

Results: There was a significant difference (P = 0.01) between the average per-participant weight change between incentivized sites (-7.4 lb) and nonincentivized sites (-2.2 lb). The cost-effectiveness ratios per pound of weight loss were $25.5 and $58.1, respectively.

Conclusions: In general, incentivized BWMPs were more cost effective. To generate a business case, enhancement in productivity becomes a critical factor and future research needs to investigate it further.