Date

6-17-2026

Department

Helms School of Government

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Public Administration (PhD)

Chair

Lona Bryan

Keywords

absenteeism, workers' compensation claims, workplace wellness programs

Disciplines

Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration

Abstract

Employee absenteeism is detrimental to organizational effectiveness and efficiency. Workers’ compensation claims are a potential liability to government organizations, as claims filed by employees for work-related injuries or illnesses may impact insurance premiums based on the number and severity of claims filed. Identifying and implementing solutions to mitigate the effects of absenteeism and workers’ compensation claims are critical to organizational sustainability. This quantitative study seeks to determine if workplace health and wellness programs decrease absenteeism and reduce workers’ compensation claims levels among public sector employees. Post-positivism and functionalism provide this study with a theoretical underpinning. The variables of interest were derived from the literature review and other researchers’ theories. A research survey is used to collect data, while independent samples t-tests and ANOVA analyses are used to investigate the relationship between municipal governments that do or do not offer workplace wellness programs and absenteeism rates and workers’ compensation claims. Respondents include facilities from 16 municipal governments in and around the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. The multi-year data collected from public administrators regarding workplace wellness programs, workers’ compensation claims, and absenteeism provide insights for making cost-effective decisions. This study aims to understand how government policies and programs can help reduce injuries, ensure budgetary sustainability, and support organizational productivity. Findings provide value to both public employers and employees.

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