The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #57220

Benilda Samuels, MA, Community Voices, Denver Health, 777 Bannock Street, MC 7779, Denver, CO 80204, 303-436-4182, benny.samuels@dhha.org

Denver Health on the Move is a walking program aimed at increasing physical activity among Denver Health employees with the purpose of enhancing individual health and modeling healthy behavior. In partnership with the state-wide program, Colorado on the Move, Denver Health on the Move was developed for the 3,500 employees of Denver’s public healthcare safety net. Employees interested in joining purchased a pedometer for $5. An instruction book, short survey, log, and tips on increasing steps accompanied the pedometer. Participants completed the survey when they joined and were re-surveyed 6 months later. Denver Health on the Move was marketed through the employee newsletter, intranet, departmental presentations and flyers. The most effective marketing tools were the appeal of the pedometer itself and word of mouth. Over a 6 month period over 5,000 pedometers were sold and many individual success stories of health improvement, weight loss, decreased stress levels and increased physical activity have been told. Plus, the program created friendly competition among departments and teams. One particularly enthusiastic physician offered Salsa dancing lessons twice a month to those interested in alternative ways to increase steps. Denver Health on the Move has been extended to the Denver Mayor and City Council. Free grant subsidized pedometers are available to our patients with a prescription from their health care provider. The Denver Health on the Move worksite health promotion is a program easily replicated in a variety of settings.

Learning Objectives:

• 3. Create a walking program in the workplace.
  6. Describe the benefits of a walking program.
  9. Develop marketing techniques to implement the walking program.

Keywords: Worksite, Wellness

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: This walking program was supported by grants from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the Centers for Disease Control