It is a shining example of a long term commitment to fitness and good health. The Nebraska Medical Center has earned a second-consecutive “Platinum Level Well Workplace Award” from the Wellness Councils of America.
Platinum represents the highest level of recognition and is currently being achieved by only 21 companies nationwide. The Nebraska Medical Center received its first Platinum certification in 2003. Companies must reapply for certification every three years.
“We are so proud to incorporate healthy living into the workplace,” said Sarah Emanuel, health promotions manager at The Nebraska Medical Center. “Through options like on-site fitness facilities and incentive programs we have grown a culture that supports the individual pursuit of healthy lifestyle behaviors.”
Workplace wellness has the added benefits of decreased absenteeism, prevention of serious, chronic disease and a related decrease in the overall amount of healthcare spending.
At The Nebraska Medical Center, nearly one-third of employees participate in annual health screenings coupled with confidential online follow-up that helps them identify personal risk factors, track developing health issues and initiate appropriate treatment when necessary.
Other wellness programs for employees include:
- WELL Track — a free fitness program that includes baseline fitness testing, short and long term goal setting, general fitness recommendations and follow-up testing.
- WELL Bucks Incentive Program — participants collect activity points for approved wellness behaviors and events such as exercise, healthy eating and preventive screenings. Employees receive rewards as their point totals build and can eventually earn a “free” day off.
- Walking Club — a self-directed program that encourages employees to walk a recommended 10,000 steps per day. Individuals keep track by pedometer and submit weekly totals to the Wellness Program. Accumulated steps lead to incentives.
- Wellness & You® — a special designation for cafeteria, vending and menu items indicating a more nutritious food choice.
- Words of Wellness — an e-newsletter focusing on awareness and education. Received by employees every two months, this resource highlights timely health issues, health-related events, fitness center activities and classes, as well as healthy recipes.
- Massage Therapy — two licensed massage therapists help ease stress and muscle tension. The on-site location provides daytime access during a lunch hour or break. The service is available by appointment and for a small fee.
- On-site Fitness Centers — two fitness centers located at the medical center offer convenient access to exercise and weight lifting equipment. Appointments with personal trainers are available. Membership is required, but costs much less than an outside gym or fitness facility.
Medical center staff can also participate in “Choose to Lose,” which teaches good nutrition and healthy eating habits or a smoking cessation program that’s available to employees at no cost.
“Workplace wellness is about striking a balance and keeping our employees engaged in what they do each and every day,” Emanuel said. “Prevention is a critical aspect not only in physical health but also for emotional well-being.”