A health promotion program evaluation in a minority industry

Wellness or health promotion programs (HPP) in the worksite are beneficial to both employer and employee. Companies report reduced absenteeism and improved job performance and productivity (O'Donnell & Ainsworth, 1984; Glantz & Orr, 1986). These programs are vital for Black Americans who experience distressing disparity in the leading causes of mortality and morbidity when compared to White Americans. Black Americans also experience poorer health as a result of racism, prejudice, discrimination, economic issues, and social ills such as poverty and lack of access to health care. The major purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a nurse-delivered six-month pilot HPP on the health awareness and reported health behaviors of Black Americans in the workplace. Approximately 50 employees participated in the HPP. The overall health screening and evaluation survey results indicated that the HPP was effective in increasing health awareness and in changing health behaviors. Nurses can play an important leadership role in improving the health of Black Americans in the workplace.