The Interaction between Health Promotion Providers and their Users - A Study of Nine Swedish Companies

Abstract

Background & Problem Discussion: The extent of ill health is an alarmingly concern in Sweden today. Health promotion is a method of maintaining and improving individuals’ health and might be a contributory factor in order to reverse the negative health trend. Worksite health promotion implies the work of health and creating a healthy workplace. Hence, it can be seen as an interaction between two actors; health promotion providers and health promotion users. Today we know little about the interaction, therefore, we consider this topic of current interest and see an opportunity in investigating it further. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to illustrate investments in health promotion from two opposite angels. That is, to elucidate the interaction between health promotion providers and health promotion users and to clarify possible benefits a company can achieve by investing in health promotion. Delimitations: In this thesis we will merely focus on the physical aspects of ill health, and not discuss the impact of poor psychological health. Methodology: A qualitative approach is used in order to elucidate the interaction between health promotion providers and their users. The empirical data is collected through semi structured interviews with respondents from nine different companies and is evaluated in the analysis. Results and Conclusions: The study shows that the interaction between health promotion providers and health promotion users is of great importance since they are dependent upon each other. Many companies are in need of help from health promotion providers to be able to create a healthy workplace. However, since it is difficult to measure the outcome of investments in employee health, some companies cannot see the value in investing, hence, they see merely costs. Further, the providers are in need of companies investing in health promotion to pursue their business activities. Hence, it is their challenge to show the benefits and motivate companies to invest in health promotion. Suggestions for Further Research: When writing the thesis focus has been on companies that are doing some kind of health promoting investment. One suggestion for further research would be to examine companies that are not investing in health promotion, and try to explain their reasons for not doing investments.