New Program Rewards Companies for Corporate Wellness Programs

Wellness programs are a critical way in which companies can reduce their health care costs. UnitedHealthcare has teamed up with Pacific Medical Centers to launch a new awards program to highlight wome of the wellness programs of Seattle area companies.

Through September, employees can go online at www.mynorthwest.com/mariners to access a nomination form to describe how their companies encourage a healthy and productive workforce. One company is chosen each month. The winner receives 50 tickets to a Mariners home game, an award plaque and on-air recognition from 710 ESPN Seattle Radio. Two representatives from the winning companies will be invited back to another home game on September 26 in a fully catered suite.

This month’s winner is Terex Aerial Work Platforms (formerly Genie Industries.) Their wellness efforts include the following:

• Educating employees by providing useful health assessment tools, booklets/pamphlets, biometric screening, onsite or web-based wellness courses and direct mailing of information to employees homes.
• Company’s commitment to health, safety and wellness is demonstrated by a continuous reduction in injuries year-after-year, a strong focus on improving the ergonomics in the workplace, and a general attitude towards the importance of health at work and home.
• The company provides access to worksite and offsite solutions including behavioral modification/support classes, onsite screening and preventative services and online/telephonic health coaching.
• Terex supports its health and wellness infrastructure through executive leadership, designated peer wellness champion, wellness budget, wellness committee, onsite/offsite activities and healthy food options for employees.