Promoting prevention with economic arguments – The case of Finnish occupational health services
2008

Economic Impact of Occupational Health Services in Finland

Sample size: 6271 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Eila Kankaanpää, Aki Suhonen, Hannu Valtonen

Primary Institution: Institute of Occupational Health, University of Kuopio

Hypothesis

Does investment in preventive occupational health services positively influence a company's economic performance?

Conclusion

There is no evidence to support the positive effect of investment in preventive occupational health services on the economic performance of a company.

Supporting Evidence

  • Investment in preventive OHS was negatively correlated with economic performance.
  • The average investment in preventive OHS was less than 0.5% of turnover.
  • The study analyzed data from 1997, 1999, and 2001.

Takeaway

Spending money on health services for workers doesn't seem to help companies make more money.

Methodology

The study used linear regression analysis on financial statements and reimbursement applications from over 6000 companies.

Limitations

The study did not account for other factors that might influence economic performance, such as management and marketing.

Participant Demographics

Companies in Finland with more than 10 employees and a turnover greater than €50,000.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2458-8-130

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