Pragmatic Evaluation of a Health System-Based Employee Weight Management Program

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the fidelity and estimate the effectiveness of a novel health system employee weight-management program. Methods: Employees participating in a weight loss program consisting of self-monitoring, health coaching and meal replacements optionally enrolled in the 12-month study. Longitudinal, single-arm analyses were conducted evaluating change over time via survey, claims and programmatic data. Token participation incentives were offered for survey completion. Results: In total, 140 participants enrolled (51.2 +/- 9.8 years; BMI = 33.2 +/- 6.5 kg/m(2); 89.3% female). During 1 year, participants attended 18.0 +/- 12.2 coaching appointments and self-reported significant improvements in weight (-8.2 +/- 10.5% body weight), BMI (-3.9 +/- 6.5 kg/m(2)), fruit/vegetable intake, home food preparation, added sugar, sugar sweetened beverages and life satisfaction (all p < 0.05). No significant changes were reported in physical activity, weight-related social support, self-efficacy or healthcare utilization (all p > 0.05). Conclusions: The findings from this evaluation establish implementation fidelity. Clinically significant self-reported weight loss, coupled with improvements in many weight-related behaviors, suggest the program is an effective weight management tool when offered as an employee well-being program.