Submit Your Health Information or Pay a Fine?

CVS Pharmacy recently sent out a memo to employees that has public health professionals—and the media—discussing just how far an employer can go to mandate employee health management. CVS employees will now be required to submit their weight, body fat, glucose levels, and other vital statistics to the company. If they don’t, they’ll be subject to a $50 monthly fine.

While those opposed to the mandate are calling it “coercion,” according to an article on ABCNews, others believe that it is a positive step toward putting employees in charge of their health—and rewarding them with decreased health insurance premiums.

“The goal of these kinds of programs is to end up with a healthier work force. If your employees are healthy they’re going to work better and they’re going  to cost the employer a lot less money,” says Dr. Richard Besser, ABC News’ chief health and medical editor.

What’s your opinion? Will mandates like CVS’ lead to increased public health?