Workplace Stress, Organizational Factors and EAP Utilization

Abstract

This study examined relationships between workplace stress, organizational factors and use of EAP counseling services delivered by network providers in a large, privately-insured population. Claims data were linked to measures of workplace stress, focus on wellness/prevention, EAP promotion, and EAP activities for health care plan enrollees from 26 employers. The association of external environment and work organization variables with use of EAP counseling services was examined. Higher levels of EAP promotion and worksite activities were associated with greater likelihood of service use. Greater focus on wellness/prevention and unusual and significant stress were associated with lower likelihood of service use. Results provide stakeholders with insights on approaches to increasing utilization of EAP services.

EAP Service Use in a Managed Behavioral Health Care Organization: From the Employee Perspective

“…The amount, type, frequency and prominence of communication about the EAP thus warrant careful attention. Vendor-provided services such as orientations and trainings have been found to be related to increased utilization (Azzone et al, 2009) and our findings support the salience of these opportunities.…”

“…This suggests a move away from, and/or lack of expertise in, the EAP core technology (Roman & Blum, 1985) and a possible lack of attention to workplace issues. Other research has examined organizational and workplace factors affecting EAP utilization in the same MBHO reported on here (Azzone et al, 2009). Results indicated that utilization is related to some actionable factors such as program promotion, suggesting that increasing program visibility may be an important way to reach those eligible to use and in need of services.…”

EAP utilization patterns and employee absenteeism: Results of an empirical, 3-year longitudinal study in a national Canadian retail corporation.

“…; voluntary versus referral utilization (e.g., Greenwood, DeWeese, & Inscoe, 2005); differences of EAP offerings (e.g., Weiss, 2003); and program promotion (e.g., Azzone et al, 2009;Csiernik, 2002;Mazloff, 1996;Mulligan, 2007) on EAP utilization. Other researchers have examined the underlying problems that drive individuals to utilize EAP services (e.g., Macdonald, Wells, Lothian, & Shain, 2000;Mulligan, 2007;Poverny & Dodd, 2000;Selvik et al, 2004;Shumway, Wampler, & Arredondo, 2004).…”

Employee Assistance Programs in Australia: Evaluating Success

“…Azzone et al (2009) suggested that higher rates of utilization require a strong ongoing campaign of promotion and regular worksite activities.…”