During the last years, the department is investigating the role of computer-aided (internet based) health consultation especially for employees. Within the framework of health management in business settings, there is need for efficient instruments for health monitoring of the work force. An accurate and valid database is essential for the development and the implementation of efficient and health supportive measures in the organizational setting.

In the face of rapid and predictable demographic changes in industrialized countries, we are facing a scarcity of qualified labor force. It is essential that the older employees should be capable to work actively in the later phase of their lives. Some European countries (e.g. Scandinavian countries) are examples of high productivity in the older labor force. Arguably, age alone may not necessarily be the factor for the loss of economic productivity. To meet this challenge, we have developed instruments to measure all important health areas including psychological health of employees. Lately, we have focused on the employees’ health by conducting a survey applying the “work ability index” (WAI). By using our computer-aided technology, the user himself receives immediate individual advice as a health intervention. Additionally, the management of the respective business organization can also receive anonymously detailed information and a careful assessment of the essential disease burden of the employees (monitoring). In line with this approach, the department already implemented this internet-based technology in two large companies in Germany. Translations into other languages and implementation in the international arena are planned.