Employers look to improve employee health, save money through wellness programs
By Denise Allabaugh, The Citizens' Voice, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. | |
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services |
"We walk in a group and we try to be healthier and get some energy going to break up the day," said the Blue Cross of
They participate in a program called "Walking Wednesdays," which promotes fitness by encouraging walking during lunch breaks for the last three years, said
Walking helps improve employees' health and productivity and lower healthcare costs.
"We can't sit 24-7,"
Jenkins Twp.-based Benco Dental engages hundreds of employees in a wellness program that includes on-site health screenings, a weight-loss support group, an employee fitness center and the opportunity to earn a discount on health insurance premiums for program participants.
Offering health screenings on site is more convenient for employees and could detect problems like high cholesterol or blockages, said
Participation in the program increases every year, with more than 50 percent of eligible employees taking part in 2013 and about 75 percent last year, said
The program helps educate employees about how to live a healthier lifestyle such as informing them how to quit smoking or lose weight, she said.
"The majority of employees who participated have stayed in touch with their health coach and took it to the next level and stayed engaged in their overall wellness,"
Contact the writer: [email protected]
Blue Cross of
The Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber is accepting nominations through Friday for the 2014 Healthy Workplace Awards Program. Visit www.chamberchoice.com and click on services, then
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