Using CDC’s Worksite Health ScoreCard to Evaluate Nutrition and Physical Activity Interventions in Priority Communities in New York State, 2015–2020

Abstract

The aim of our study was to evaluate a statewide obesity prevention program, designed to improve two social determinants of health (access to healthy foods and opportunities for physical activity) by changing worksite policies, systems, and environments. We used data on social determinants of health to identify priority communities and funded 25 contractors to recruit and engage worksites in those communities. We employed a pre/post quasi-experimental design and used the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Worksite Health ScoreCard to assess implementation of nutrition and physical activity strategies. Contractors collaborated with partners to conduct pre- and postassessments at 313 worksites. Worksites were successful at implementing all except one strategy; implementation doubled for eight strategies and tripled for three. We used weighted scores to incorporate strength of the evidence-base and level of impact into our analysis; increases in strategy implementation were statistically significant in worksites that provided places to purchase food and beverages and in those that did not. Our study revealed several important recommendations for practice. Use available data to prioritize communities experiencing health disparities and identify PSE change strategies to increase access to nutritious foods and physical activity opportunities. Engage with reputable community-based partners from different sectors when designing and implementing programs. Use standardized tools, such as the Worksite Health ScoreCard, to evaluate public health initiatives.