Examining the Implementation of Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Policies in a Large, Public Health Organization

Abstract

Objective: To examine the implementation of physical activity and healthy eating policies in eighteen locations of a large, public health organization.

Methods: We used a mixed-methods design that included a survey of employees to describe location characteristics (ie, number of employees, race/ethnicity of employees), a survey of wellness ambassadors to determine which policies were implemented, and semi-structured, telephone interviews with wellness ambassadors to examine the barriers and facilitators to policy implementation.

Results: Six locations implemented both policies, nine locations only implemented the physical activity policy, and two locations did not implement either policy. Structural characteristics and geographic spread impeded implementation, whereas leadership engagement and access to information about the policies facilitated implementation.

Conclusions: Consistent and adequate policy implementation in each location of an organization is critical to providing equity in health promotion programs for employees.