able to effectively use them.
The poet, Virgil, once said, "the greatest wealth is health." Although quality and coverage are
ranked highly as health care goals, most Americans rate the U.S. system as unsatisfactory.
Employers are interested in helping consumers be more conscious, thoughtful, and informed in
making health choices.
The American Heart Association (AHA) promotes comprehensive programsHealth And Wellness Tips Of The Day that address the
following:
cardiovascular disease prevention;
tobacco cessation and prevention;
physical activity;
nutrition education;
stress management/reduction;
weight management; and
early detection/screening.
Other features may include direction regarding effective use of the health care system, back
pain prevention/management, alcohol and substance abuse assessment, adult vaccination, and
maternal and infant health education.
The Office of Minority Health (OMH) agrees that "cultural competency is one of the main
ingredients in closing the disparities gap in health care." When developing a health wellness
program, language and culture influence:
how health conditions and causes are perceived;
workplace wellness belief systems;
attitudes toward health care providers;
behaviors of consumers; and
delivery of health services.
According to an article in Family & Community Health, "culturally sensitive and appropriate
programs must be developed to engage economically challenged minority and other underserved
populations."
