Findings from a national Employee Engagement Poll are being released today as six national employers work with Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies in a pilot health and wellness research-based initiative – Engaging Consumers@Work – to determine what motivates employees to change their lifestyle behavior.
Many employees report themselves to be in “very good” or “excellent” health, despite failing to reach even the minimum levels of physical activity and nutritional recommendations, according to the Employee Engagement Poll released by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA).
The poll found that while nearly half (44 percent) of all employees considered themselves in above average health, a surprising few (one in five employees) actually adhere to the minimum standards of healthy eating, including consuming one serving of whole grain and fruit each day. Meanwhile, only one in two employees undertake minimal physical activity such as walking or gardening for ten minutes at least four days a week.
Similarly, while many consumers understand basic health and wellness messages that good diet and exercise are important, a vast majority cannot answer specific questions about how such variables as body weight, cholesterol or blood pressure may impact quality of life
“This poll highlights an opportunity for health and wellness programs offered by employers around the country to more closely align consumer perceptions of good health with greater engagement in activities that potentially have a positive impact on quality of life and medical costs,” said BCBSA President and CEO Scott P. Serota.
BCBSA’s poll also showed that two-thirds (67 percent) of employees who do not have health and wellness programs at work would like their employers to offer them. Among all employees, meanwhile, the majority (54 percent) would appreciate more health and wellness assistance from their employer.
For companies that invest in these initiatives, employees report healthier behavior, including being more active, following a healthier diet and getting recommended health screenings. In addition, they say that they are more productive. Finally, these workers are also much more likely, on average (64 percent), to believe that their employer cares about their health. The poll, conducted by Knowledge Networks, surveyed 3,063 working men and women ages, 18 to 60. 
