Integrating employee assistance and wellness: Current and future core technologies of a megabrush program

Abstract

The current core technology of employee assistance programs (EAPs) is reviewed and described along eight dimensions, four of which are unique to EAPs and four of which are shared with worksite wellness programs. The current core technology of wellness programs is also described, including four dimensions shared with EAPs and six dimensions that are unique to wellness programs. The core technology of both EAPs and wellness programs addresses the coordinated implementation of services through the worksite which help employees access and utilize specific health-related programs. It does not include the technology for treatment of specific risks or diseases. Five future dimensions are discussed, which may be added to the core technology of EAPs and/or wellness programs if research shows that they are effective in furthering program objectives. The inter-relationships between EAPs and worksite wellness programs are described, and program ethics regarding participation and confidentiality are discussed.