The Client

A municipality in Merrill, Wisconsin, serving approximately 500 participants annually. Spouses were eligible to participate if enrolled in the medical plan.

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The Challenge

Rising healthcare costs prompted leadership to take proactive action. In 2011, the municipality launched a wellness initiative aimed at improving employee health outcomes and controlling long-term medical expenses.

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The Strategy

2011–2012:
The program began as a participatory wellness model. Employees earned the Wellness Rate by completing biometric screenings and a Health Risk Assessment (HRA).

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2013–2014:
The program evolved into an outcomes-based model. Participants were required to achieve a WellCentive Score of 70 or higher, or demonstrate a minimum five-point improvement over the previous year, to qualify for the Wellness Rate.

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2016–Present:
A tobacco component was added to further address preventable risk factors. Tobacco users enroll in coaching to remain eligible for the Wellness Rate, while the score requirement (70 or a five-point improvement) remains in place.

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Participants who do not meet the score or improvement standard are allowed to complete a Road to Wellness program to maintain compliance. Tobacco users complete a structured Tobacco Cessation module along with six telephonic coaching sessions for additional support and accountability.

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The Results

The program has delivered measurable, sustained improvements:

• Tobacco use continues to decline (See Graph A: Total Significant Lifestyle Comparison)

• Average WellCentive Scores are steadily increasing (See Graph B: Average WellCentive Scores)

• Blood chemistry markers have improved across all major indicators (See Graph C: Significant High Abnormal Comparison – Blood Chemistries)
   

These outcomes reflect meaningful behavior change, improved biometric health, and long-term risk reduction within the population.