OBJECTIVES: As the world suffered through the COVID-19 pandemic, it became increasingly clear that the health of populations is foundational to a high-functioning economy, corporate well-being, and social justice. Thus, companies need to understand how population health and health equity will allow them to become more resilient to current and future threats. This study explores available indices measuring employee health and well-being, place-based health indicators, and preparedness measures to evaluate their relevance and applicability in helping businesses become more resilient to future public health threats.

METHODS: We conducted a non-exhaustive search for relevant indices, using key word searches and cascade sampling. For the initial review of each index (n=27), the team made note of the tool’s description, purpose, category, input(s) and output(s), accessibility, and scalability. After an initial review, each tool was evaluated based on five criteria: relevance, methodology, ease of use, usefulness of output, and factors/indicators, and then provided a qualitative ranking of good, moderate, or poor.

RESULTS: All indices ranked as “poor” or “moderate” in at least one of the evaluation criteria. Several gaps were identified in the existing 27 instruments. The majority of indices did not allow comparisons across companies or consider interactions between companies and the surrounding communities. Input measures were at times subjective and their respective scoring systems often inconsistent. Most indices were not fit for purpose in evaluating businesses but were instead built for community or government use.

CONCLUSION: Employee health and well-being is a critical factor to ensure business and community success and resilience. Existing tools provide limited insight and direction for businesses to make key strategic investments and decisions around their employees’ health and well-being needs to drive greater resilience to future threats. Further research is recommended to enhance existing indices and capture relevant inputs that can improve health outcomes at scale.