At the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), worker well-being is a core organizational value. From protecting air and water quality, to improving community health outcomes across the state, CDPHE understands that to care for the health of Colorado residents, it must first care for the health, safety, and well-being of its own people. That’s where the Total Worker Health (TWH) framework comes in.
A Comprehensive and Equitable Approach to Workforce Well-being
CDPHE’s Total Worker Health Program takes a person-centered approach that meets employees where they are. Whether they're new to the agency, navigating life transitions, or preparing for retirement, CDPHE’s comprehensive strategy considers the full employee experience, both during and beyond their tenure with the department. This includes access to robust benefits like Colorado’s State of Health program, The Colorado State Employee Assistance Program (CSEAP, and PERA Care, which supports employee health and well-being during employment and after retirement. This forward-looking commitment reflects our responsibility not just to the individual, but to their families and the broader public.
Integrating TWH Principles into Policy, Programs, and Culture
CDPHE integrates TWH principles into every layer of the organization through a department-wide TWH Oversight Committee composed of leaders, advocates, and subject matter experts from each division. The committee ensures a comprehensive and coordinated TWH approach across the agency by developing an annual workplan with defined priorities, goals, and measurable outcomes. Subcommittees focus on key areas such as mental health, emotional well-being, safety, emergency preparedness, family-friendly workplace policies, ergonomics, ADA compliance, workers’ compensation, health promotion, communication and outreach.
Leading by Example: Leadership's Role in Advancing TWH
Leadership plays a pivotal role in modeling and supporting a culture of health and safety. CDPHE leaders promote TWH programs through internal communications and participate in events, discussions, and committee meetings. Active involvement from leaders sends a clear message that well-being is a shared value, not solely an HR initiative.
“As a public health agency, our leadership inherently understands the importance of practicing what we preach. From forming employee resource and networking groups to creating inclusive engagement opportunities, our leaders help ensure the workforce feels supported and connected,” says Dan McKenna, Total Worker Health program manager at CDPHE.
A Longstanding Commitment
CDPHE’s TWH journey didn’t begin overnight. The department has partnered with Health Links® since 2013 and has evolved from a siloed focus on general wellness to an integrated, holistic model that addresses the full spectrum of health, safety, and well-being.
“Health Links has been a vital partner in our journey,” says McKenna. “The assessment and advising help us identify gaps and develop targeted strategies. The Health Links Annual Event offers invaluable opportunities for knowledge sharing and collaboration. Webinars and online modules provide timely, evidence-based education on emerging TWH topics, all of which help us stay informed and aligned with best practices.”
TWH Impact: From the Workplace to the Community
“The COVID-19 pandemic was a turning point,” says DeAnna Mathis, health and safety coordinator at CDPHE. “As we adapted to a hybrid work environment and shifting employee needs, it became clear that flexibility, responsiveness, and equity had to be at the core of our programs. By listening to our workforce and leveraging their expertise, we revitalized our approach to reflect the realities of today’s workplace.”
CDPHE’s focus on TWH has had a ripple effect. Internally, it has led to more equitable, inclusive, and responsive programming. Externally, it reinforces the public health mission and demonstrates how investing in employee well-being strengthens Colorado communities.
Words of Advice for Fellow Employers
“If you're looking to build a more supportive and sustainable workplace, start by listening,” says McKenna. “Get into the trenches. Connect with employees across roles and backgrounds to understand their needs and barriers. Then, partner strategically with organizations like Health Links to bring in expertise and build sustainable programming. Engage leaders at all levels, from frontline supervisors to executives. Their buy-in and support can make or break your efforts.”
At CDPHE, the Total Worker Health approach is ongoing and evolving. The organization invests in worker health, safety and well-being to take care of its people, and strengthen its mission. That’s a win for everyone.
© 2018 Health Links
