Healthy workplace commitment pays off

It might surprise you to learn the staff at Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island includes two full-time fitness trainers. They work in the fitness center at the health insurer’s Providence headquarters, and it’s all part of the workplace wellness program at Blue Cross, an effort to encourage employees to exercise, eat right and see their doctor.

According to Sharon Broadbent, senior benefits analyst in the human resources department, the company has reaped a payoff. “We’ve seen our medical claims drop below the benchmark for the past couple of years,” she said.

At the company cafeteria, employees get an incentive to eat healthy: The company subsidizes those menu offerings that are low in fat and high in fiber.

Everyone who works at Blue Cross and subscribes to company health benefits is required to visit a doctor and dentist at least once a year. And those who take part in elective programs – such as blood-pressure screenings and nutrition classes – will have funds added to their health savings account. n

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Number of Employees: 950

CEO (or equivalent): Peter Andruszkiewicz, president and CEO

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