CONCORD TWP., OH, February 1, 2012 - On January 31 the Office of Healthy Ohio awarded Lake Health with the Bronze Healthy Ohioans-Healthy Worksite Award.  More than 97 companies, cities and townships applied for the 2011 award which recognizes Ohio employers that demonstrate a commitment to employee health through comprehensive worksite health promotion and wellness programs. Thirty-four Ohio businesses were recognized.

Lake Health was recognized for its wellness fitness programs for team members, including Yoga, Pilates, Zumba and Meditation, and continuing their employee wellness program, which is a comprehensive wellness program that includes awareness, identification and recruitment of team members, peer wellness coaching, and creating a healthier workplace environment.  Through this program, team members are encouraged to complete a health risk assessment with biometric screenings and participate in wellness coaching to develop wellness goals.  Wellness coaching takes place over a six-month period with weekly and then monthly contact with a wellness coach. 

Other wellness activities offered through the Lake Health Wellness Institute include a five-month corporate challenge, a six-week walking challenge, personal health profiles, medical nutrition therapy, the Weight 4 Life weight management program, a Farmer's Market, outpatient services including acupuncture, Reiki, and massage therapy, and annual employee health fairs.

"Through our comprehensive wellness program we have been able to tailor services to our team members needs as well as help set individual wellness goals and assist our team members in meeting their goals," said Sharon Minjares, MS, RD, LD, director of the Wellness Institute at Lake Health.

"Employee health and wellness efforts result in major benefits for both employer and employee," said Laura Ritzler, Healthy Ohio Business Council Chair.  "Positive returns on investment are realized in employees who improve their health resulting in decreased rates of absenteeism and increased productivity. Employers also realize reductions in health care costs and an overall increase in productivity and job satisfaction."