Health Care Lawyer Blog

I just returned from my Sunday morning Weight Watcher's weigh-in. I reached my "10% Goal" and have lost 10% of the weight I was at when I began the program--this time--in October, 2007. I am looking at another 5% loss within a few months to reach my goal and begin a program of lifetime maintenance. In addition, I am starting an extensive exercise program with a "platoon" type trainer as soon as I pass a stress test ordered by my cardiologist (I had a "minor" heart-attack two years ago so the trainer wants to make certain I am good to go (I know I am, but why take any chances)).

Since I became a weight watcher, I have lost about 6 inches on my waist and many of the clothes I had relegated to the spare closet fit and look terrific. I am finally ready to start shopping again. I also feel much more energetic.

When I started my new program, I issued a challenge to our staff. most are pretty fit and pay attention to what they eat and how they live. We also offered a monetary incentive. We do not have a lot of food and snacks floating around (I used to peek in drawers every afternoon looking for them) but some were unhappy with their appearance. Since my challenge more than one has lost significant weight and we all feel pretty good.

There has been a global movement to '"Wellness Programs" in the workplace (Weight Watchers International and local chapters are available to help organize such endeavors.)

According to the Society for Human Resource Management, wellness programs are a tool to reduce health care costs and disability- and illness-related absences, or and a tactic to attract talent.

Wellness programs are most prevalent in the United States where they’re seen (as our firm has found) as a way to reduce health care costs by making workers more aware of healthy behaviors and encouraging them and their families to adopt healthier lifestyles..

Whether you institute a formal program through an organization such as Weight Watchers or some other professional program, encourage your staff to try something like Weight Loss Wars , create a self-designed pool or contest, or just bring in a healthy lunch now and then, you will see increased productivity, less absenteeism and happier employees.