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Research Article  |   November 1986
The Case for Health Promotion Programs Containing Health Care Costs: A Review of the Literature
Walter S. Elias; Robert J. Murphy
Author Affiliations
  • Walter S. Elias, PhD, is a consultant, Health Fitness Consultants, Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, Minnesota (mailing address: 6920 West 24th Street, St. Louis Park, Minnesota 55426)
  • Robert J. Murphy, PhD, is Professor, Department of Psychology, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, Minnesota
Article Information
Health and Wellness / Features
Research Article   |   November 1986
The Case for Health Promotion Programs Containing Health Care Costs: A Review of the Literature
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, November 1986, Vol. 40, 759-763. doi:10.5014/ajot.40.11.759
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, November 1986, Vol. 40, 759-763. doi:10.5014/ajot.40.11.759
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Abstract

A review is conducted of major studies dealing with the impact of work site health promotion programs on health care costs. Inconsistent results were produced due to measurement, design, and sampling problems. A study of Blue Cross-Blue Shield of Indiana employees provided the best evidence of program-related health care cost reductions. Suggestions are made which, if implemented, should enable researchers to more confidently attribute cost reductions to health promotion program activities.