Simonton Takes Steps to Improve Employee Health and Wellness
Simonton Windows, the West Virginia-based manufacturer of vinyl windows and doors, has contracted Wellness Coaches USA to provide one-on-one individualized wellness coaching for its employees
“Professionals from Wellness Coaches USA will work directly with individual employees to address their various lifestyle issues, including nutrition, exercise, diet and weight loss, medication noncompliance, tobacco cessation and chronic health conditions,” says Simonton's Ethan Frank-Collins. “We believe this dedicated attention will help our employees take action to improve their lifestyle behaviors. Hopefully this will lead to their better overall health and quality of life."
In addition to the one-on-one-support, Wellness Coaches USA will lead group sessions at the Simonton facilities on various health and wellness topics on a regular basis. Phone consultations and Web site support will also offered. “Participation in this program is free to all Simonton employees,” adds Frank-Collins. “This is a voluntary program that is designed to be a positive experience.”
Simonton selected Wellness Coaches USA based on their strong track record for success with similar programs for other corporations across the country. The highly-visible coaches dedicated to Simonton will be available to support employees on all shifts and are trained to proactively reach out to connect with employees. Participation in the program is confidential and focuses on education, guidance and motivation to support employees in their efforts toward creating more healthy lifestyles.
“We view these wellness coaches as an investment in our employees and their families," says Frank-Collins. "Improved health will lead to decreased medical costs for individuals in the form of decreased usage of medical services. When fewer medical services are used, individuals pay less in the form of deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses. A healthier work force overall enjoys a better quality of life and results in shared savings for both our company and individual employees.”
In addition to the individual coaches, Simonton also provides a results-based wellness incentives program for its employees. Bravo Wellness LLC monitors the blood pressure, body mass index, tobacco use and cholesterol of its employees. Robert Gearhart of Gearhart Insurance Agency Inc. began assisting Simonton on their road toward healthier lifestyles in 2009. "After evaluating numerous remedial solutions for Simonton, Wellness Coaches USA was the right solution to complement the Bravo Wellness screenings," says Gearhart.
“We expect Wellness Coaches USA to build on the successful results we have already seen by participating in the Bravo Wellness program,” adds Frank-Collins. “These programs combined can have a tremendous impact on the lives of our employees. We’re giving them the tools to lead healthier and longer lives.”