The relationship between employees’ health risk and attitude toward a risk-rated health benefit plan

Attitudes (fairness, motivational value, and self-efficacy) and self-reported health behaviors were assessed in a survey of 450 employees in an employer-sponsored risk-rated health benefit plan (RRHBP). Differences in attitudes and behaviors were analyzed for high and low risk employees, with risk status based on blood pressure, cholesterol, body weight, fitness, and tobacco use. A Chi Square analysis of these two groups showed significant differences, particularly in self-efficacy, for all risk factors except blood pressure. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.