Firms Use Carrot, Stick to Encourage Healthy Habits

from National Public Radio

Companies are cracking down on the health of their employees. IBM recently said that starting next year it will pay employees $150 if they sign up their kids for a program to fight childhood obesity.

Clarian Health recently revised controversial plans to penalize workers for smoking, having high blood pressure, or body mass index over a certain limit.

The moves are part of a trend among a growing number of employers to monitor their workers' health. After all, it costs more to insure smokers and overweight people.

Liz Ryan, a columnist for Business Week, speaks with Steve Inskeep.

Broadcast Dates

• Morning Edition, October 31, 2007