Wellness Council Partnership Aims to Reduce Obesity Rate
The Wellness Council of Indiana is partnering with On Target Health for employer-sponsored weight management programs targeting obesity. WCI members will receive exclusive pricing through the Indianapolis-based organization.
Alliance for a Healthier Indiana data show obesity increases health care costs for all employees, with obesity adding nearly $12 billion in increased costs and lower productivity. Obese employees are responsible for more than $51,000 more in medical claims, compared to $7,500 for healthy weight employees. The new partnership hopes to help reduce the state’s obesity levels to below 20 percent, which is a stated goal of the Indiana Chamber’s Indiana Vision 2025. Current levels are over the 20 percent mark, with the Alliance reporting one in every three Hoosiers qualifying as obese.
Executive Director of WCI, Jennifer Pferrer, says the partnership is another step toward achieving goals. “Our mission is to work collaboratively and impact the economic vitality of the state by working with employers to help guide workplaces and communities through the development of comprehensive health and wellness strategies.”
More information on the partnership, and how to become a member, can be found here.