Incentives do help improve health

There is substantial evidence that financial incentives  can effectively modify health-related behaviors for the better.  A meta-analysis published in the journal “Tobacco Control” found that financial incentives significantly increased smoking cessation rates. Research published in the “American Journal of Preventive Medicine” showed that participants in weight loss programs who received financial incentives lost more weight than those who did not.  Financial incentives have been shown to increase participation in preventive health screenings. A study in “Health Affairs” found that offering cash rewards for completing screenings (e.g., mammograms, colonoscopies) led to higher participation rates. Some health insurance plans use incentives for completing health assessments or participating in wellness programs). Research has shown that this approach can lead to increased participation in health-promoting activities.  Commitment contracts, where individuals agree to financial penalties for failing to meet health-related goals (e.g., losing weight or quitting smoking), have been effective. A study published in the “Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization” found that participants who set financial penalties for themselves were more likely to achieve their health goals.  Also,  programs that create a social norm around healthy behaviors, combined with financial incentives, have been shown to be effective. For example, workplace wellness programs that reward employees for healthy behaviors while also comparing their performance to peers can increase participation and adherence to health goals.programs have reported positive outcomes in terms of employee health and reduced healthcare costs.  For further reading, you can explore studies published in journals such as “Health Affairs,” “American Journal of Preventive Medicine,” and “Tobacco Control,” as well as books on behavioral economics and health behavior change.