Freeman recognized for employee health initiative

JOPLIN, Mo.—Freeman Health System was recognized for its employee health initiatives with the Health at Work Silver Award. Sponsored by ComPsych®, this award honors organizations that promote employee health and wellness. Freeman earned this merit based on its comprehensive wellness program, participation rates, and results.

“Even before ‘prevention’ and ‘wellness’ became the buzzwords describing a company’s efforts to improve employee health, Freeman knew that such a goal was essential,” said Kris Drake, Freeman Wellness Coordinator. “As our region’s premier healthcare provider, we understand it is our responsibility to lead by example. It is an honor to be recognized for our efforts that empower Freeman employees to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle.”

Established in 2006, Freeman WellBalance, the health system’s employee wellness program, provides employees with an online health risk appraisal and an annual health screening. Through this process, employees receive a wellness score and a guide to achieve a healthier way of life. The guide outlines the employee’s top health risks and what can be done to improve them.

Freeman offers a number of initiatives to support healthy living. From January to April of 2012, 430 employees participated in a weight-loss competition called Freeman Meltdown, losing a total of 1,360 pounds. In April, 260 employees and their family members took part in the first Freeman Family 5K and Fun Run. Additionally, Freeman brought fresh produce directly to its employees during farmers markets held at each of its hospitals throughout the summer.

ComPsych is the world’s largest provider of employee assistance programs, using its HealthyGuidance® program to target behavioral and lifestyle issues before they become significant illnesses.

About Freeman Health System

Based in Joplin, Missouri, Freeman Health System is the area’s only locally owned, not-for-profit health system, serving southwest Missouri, southeast Kansas, northeast Oklahoma, and northwest Arkansas. Freeman provides comprehensive healthcare and behavioral health services, including cancer care, heart and vascular care, neurosciences, orthopaedics, and women’s services, with more than 300 physicians representing 60 specialties. For more information, visit freemanhealth.com or facebook.com/freemanhealthsystem, or follow Freeman President and Chief Executive Officer Paula Baker at twitter.com/freemanceo.