How to reduce absenteeism: a comparative analysis

One way for hospitals to control costs and increase productivity is to reduce absenteeism. This study evaluates the comparative effectiveness of seven prevalent absentee-control programs. Three are reward programs (bonus, buy back, and personal recognition); three are disciplinary programs (disciplinary action, no-fault, and year-end review); and one combines reward and discipline (paid leave bank). Data from 464 hospitals located in 42 states are analyzed. Statistical significance was obtained by using an ANOVA (p less than .05). The results suggest that a paid leave bank offers the most promise for controlling absenteeism. The data show no significant difference in levels of absenteeism among hospitals that use a mix of reward and disciplinary programs from those that use only reward or only disciplinary interventions. Implications of the findings are subsequently addressed.