Determining factors for utilisation of employee wellness programme by healthcare workers in Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

Background

The health and well-being of healthcare workers have broader implications for public health. The utilization of

employee wellness programs (EWPs) among healthcare workers poses a significant challenge, as there is a growing

concern regarding the limited engagement and participation in these programs. Despite the well-established

benefits of such initiatives in promoting the well-being of healthcare professionals, a notable gap exists in

understanding the factors influencing their utilization within the healthcare sector. Therefore, this study aimed to

determine factors for utilisation of EWP by healthcare workers (HCWs) in the Limpopo Province of South Africa.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional quantitative study conducted among 325 HCWs who were selected using random

sampling techniques. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. Logistic regression analysis was

performed to identify factors for utilisation of EWP among HCWs.

Results

Almost all (96%) had an adequate level of awareness of EWP in their workplace. Participants who were responsible

for their own wellbeing were ten times more likely to participate in an EWP than those who were not responsible

(OR=10.6, p<0.05). Participants who talk to their friends about issues related to healthy eating were 11 times more

likely to participate in an EWP than those who did not talk about healthy eating (OR=10.9, p<0.05). Stressed/burned

out employees were 3.7 times more likely to participate in an EWP than those who did not have these conditions

(OR=3.7, p=0.036).

Conclusion

HCWs are willing to utilise EWP if offered. There is a need for initiating EWP in the study setting. The EWP

programme should be developed and implanted in the health sectors considering the factors found to be significant.