Disease management tools

Rather than focus attention — and dollars — on getting workers fit, employers are beginning to zero in on helping them manage chronic illness.

Conditions such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol cost employers millions of dollars each year in terms of insurance claims, absenteeism, and reduced productivity.

A percentage of any staff is overweight. Current theory holds an obese workforce can negatively affect profitability. But healthcare consultant Linda Riddell says companies like Wal-Mart and other firms counter the conventional wisdom.