Economic benefit of the PHLAME wellness programme on firefighter injury

Abstract

Fire department WC claims and medical costs were reduced after implementation of the PHLAME workplace health promotion programme. This is a low cost, team-based, peer-led, wellness programme that may provide a feasible, cost-effective means to reduce firefighter injury and illness rates.

Randomized, Prospective Study of the Impact of a Sleep Health Program on Firefighter Injury and Disability

“…25 In this retrospective analysis, a sustained reduction in both workers' compensation claims and medical costs was observed in PHLAME-participating departments, compared with matched departments that did not participate. 26 Similarly, a prospective, but not randomized, study of the implementation of a Physician-Organized Wellness Regime reported a 40% reduction in recordable injuries during the first year. 27 Not all workplace-based intervention programs are successful in reducing injuries, however.…”

Does employment in high risk professions relating to firefighters and emergency workers cause injuries that requires long hospitalization?

“…Therefore it is important for firefighters to keep fit by practicing the required exercises [21] . There are many programs, e. g. PHLAME health promotion programme, that are less expensive and reduce injuries and sick leave days [22] . Expertly programmed exercises are of high importance, are relatively hard and sometimes cause injuries, but they more than halve the risks of field injuries [23] .…”

The COMPASS Pilot Study

“…This scripted team-based model has reduced disordered eating and the use of performance enhancing drugs among teenaged athletes, 53,54 and improved health behaviors and safety among firefighters and police officers. [55][56][57] For example, over a 1-year period with firefighters, the team-based intervention increased fruit and vegetable consumption from 5.8 to 7.4 (standard deviation [SD] = 0.30) servings per day and arrested weight gain, and ultimately produced an annual savings of $714 per firefighter in reduced workers' compensation costs. 56 Social support group elements in the COMPASS intervention model included adapted structured problem-solving steps from Toseland et al 44 Forum (IFF).…”

“…[55][56][57] For example, over a 1-year period with firefighters, the team-based intervention increased fruit and vegetable consumption from 5.8 to 7.4 (standard deviation [SD] = 0.30) servings per day and arrested weight gain, and ultimately produced an annual savings of $714 per firefighter in reduced workers' compensation costs. 56 Social support group elements in the COMPASS intervention model included adapted structured problem-solving steps from Toseland et al 44 Forum (IFF). 58 The IFF group process integrates an Ignatian focus on the health and development of the "whole person" with elements of a supportive group process established for small business leaders in 1957 called TEC (The Executive Committee, now implemented as Vistage International) (A. Delbeq, personal communication, December 14, 2010).…”