News Release: March 9, 2010 Contact: Elizabeth Witte, Communications Director (724-852-5210)
WAYNESBURG, PA – The Greene County Commissioners are once again sponsoring the Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Lifestyle Returns Wellness program for county employees. The nine-month, incentive-based program encourages employees to take control of their health and change their lifestyles through attending classes, receiving wellness exams and participating in challenge programs.
Last year, 86 county employees participated in the Lifestyle Returns program, and more than $8,400 in gift cards was distributed during an awards ceremony in December. For 2010, the commissioners have set a goal to enroll 125 full- and part-time employees in the program, which awards points based on completed activities. To be eligible for a reward, an employee must have accumulated 125 points by the end of October, when the program concludes.
According to Highmark, the county’s health insurance provider, the Lifestyle Returns program identifies health and lifestyle areas in need of improvement, then helps participants develop and maintain new and healthier habits. Participants first take an online pledge and complete the “Wellness Profile,” an online health assessment. They are then encouraged to schedule preventive care exams and participate in health and wellness programs. The programs offered by the county include:
10,000 Step Challenge, a 12-week, pedometer-based walking campaign
Discover Relaxation Within I and II, two group-based stress management programs that focus on identifying and coping with personal stressors
Drop 10 in 10, a weight management program designed to help participants lose 10 pounds or 10 percent of their weight in 10 weeks
Eat Well for Life I and II, two group-based weight management and lifestyle improvement programs that focus on balanced nutrition, smart shopping, healthy cooking and physical activity
Guided Self-Help Smokeless and Telephonic Smokeless, two tobacco cessation programs
Personal Nutrition Coaching, which involves a registered dietitian or licensed nutritionist individually coaching participants on weight management, heart health, diabetes and other health issues
According to Tracy Zivkovich, county human resources director, more than 40 employees have already signed up for Personal Nutrition Coaching, a new health and wellness employer-sponsored program this year.
In addition to the programs, the county also awards points for exercising at a fitness center weekly or at home, enrolling in Weight Watchers, donating blood, receiving a flu shot, participating in a race or walkathon, and volunteering or performing community service.
"Studies have shown healthier employees are more productive and help reduce the high cost of healthcare in the long term,” Zivkovich said. “Lifestyle Returns is a great program for county employees."
After successfully completing the 125-point Lifestyle Returns program, employees will receive cash gift cards based on their past participation. First-time participants will receive $250 in gift cards, and repeat participants will receive $100 in gift cards. Employees not enrolled in the county’s Highmark insurance plan will receive $100 in gift cards. The employee who earns the most points will be eligible to win an additional reward of $200 in gift cards.
To receive a reward, a program participant must have completed all requirements, be classified as a full- or part-time employee and be actively employed by the county at the time rewards are given.
For more information on the Lifestyle Returns program, call the Human Resources office at 724-852-5200, or visit www.highmarkbcbs.com.
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For general information, please contact the Information Services at 724-852-5399 / Toll Free: 1-888-852-5399. County Office Building, 93 E. High Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370
