Many New Year’s resolutions surround weight loss or smoking cessation.   More & more employers have taken a more serious look at employee health and wellness, and if such programs provide a good return on their investment.

Employers are also looking at the incentives they have in place for employees completing health surveys, smoking cessation programs, weight management, diabetes, etc.  The percentage of U.S. companies measuring ROI for health and wellness programs has increased from 14% in 2007 to 73% in 2009.  About 83% of those who measure say the programs return more than a $1 for each $1 invested in these programs.

The values of incentives are up, averaging $329 in 2009 and ranging from a $1 per pound for weight loss to annual premium reductions valued at more than $1,500 each.  The most common incentive is health premium reductions followed by merchandise gift cards.