Wellness programs likely won't produce results for companies and their employees unless planned and executed correctly, according to a recent study. In fact, says Ralph C. Mayrell, an HSC health research assistant, "Many experts told us that employers that lack the ability and commitment to support a comprehensive wellness program may be wiser to stay on the sidelines."

The study – detailed in a new NIHCR Research Brief is based on a literature review and 45 interviews with wellness industry experts and representatives of benefits consulting firms, health plans, wellness companies and employers sponsoring wellness programs.

Whether employer wellness initiatives are just a passing fad or make a real difference in workers' health will likely depend on whether firms implement customized, integrated, comprehensive, diversified programs strongly linked to a firm's business strategy and championed by senior leadership and managers throughout the company, according to industry experts interviewed by HSC researchers for the study.