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Use of Federal Funds To Finance HEW Employees' Participation in Smokenders

HRD-79-92 Published: Jun 06, 1979. Publicly Released: Jun 06, 1979.
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Highlights

Concern was expressed about the possible misuse of government funds by the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW) when it offered to pay part of the costs of a Smokenders program in order to help its employees quit smoking. The legal basis and rationale for the program is presented. HEW justified the program in the belief that reduced smoking would improve the overall health of its employees, and it was further pointed out that legislation allows the head of a government agency to establish a health service program. The program began in April 1978; a year later, 365 employees had completed or were attending the program. The total cost to the government was $80,000. HEW has not decided whether to offer the program in fiscal year 1980.

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Cost analysisGovernment employeesHealth care programsHealth hazardsProgram evaluationSmokingHealth careFederal fundsHuman capital managementLegislation