OC Healthy Steps Wellness Program

About the Program

Category: Human Services (Best in Category)

Year: 2016

Changing habits can be difficult even when it’s a change for the better. That’s why the County of Orange developed the “OC Healthy Steps Wellness Program” to promote employee wellness and help employees make positive health changes one step at a time. In 2014 OC/Human Resource Services, partnered with County labor organizations and health plan providers to implement OC Healthy Steps – an initiative encouraging employees to take important steps to improve their health while providing cost-effective health management tools/resources. The program educates and empowers employees through three important steps: Know Your Numbers (biometric screenings), Know Your Health Risks (Health Risk Assessments), and Know the Benefits of Healthy Behavior Change (Non-Smoking Attestation). Employees who chose to participate received a 5% savings on health plan premiums. The County achieved an unprecedented 86% participation rate in the first year which resulted in a reduction in health care premiums and budget savings of approximately $6 million. Additionally, it fully funded the implementation of a County Wellness Office and on-site Wellness Coach. The program demonstrates the successful collaboration between the County, employees, labor organizations and health plan providers to address the rising costs of healthcare and support employees in taking steps toward a healthier future.