Design lessons from an RCT to test efficacy of a hybrid ehealth solution for work site health

Abstract

Work site healthy lifestyle interventions hold promise for improving health and employability. As part of a larger employer vitality program and a work site RCT (Randomized Controlled Trial, n=59 intervention arm) to assess cardiac risk impacts, we conducted a design analysis on a hybrid eHealth solution. The control condition was a six weeks waiting list and then start of the hybrid eHealth support (n=57). Based on preliminary 6 week- and 3 month-results, the hybrid eHealth support generated statistically significant risk factors improvement (like LDL cholesterol). The waiting list condition yielded no significant improvements. The late start after the waiting list did yield significant improvements, but not as large as a direct start. The direct start also appears to yield higher satisfaction and intention to recommend.