American Specialty Health Leading the Way in Providing Employees “Perks” that Improve their Health

SAN DIEGO (Nov. 28, 2006) – Employee “perks” such as an onsite fitness center, healthy snacks in lunchroom vending machines, monthly celebrations, and weight management and tobacco cessation programs can lead to a healthier, happier workplace, according to a recent television news report.

San Diego’s KGTV recently featured prominent San Diego businesses that are going above and beyond the normal medical benefits and 401(k) package. American Specialty Health (ASH), the nation’s leading complementary health care and wellness company, leads the way by providing its Healthyroads Coaching Program to employees who want to manage their weight, quit smoking, or just live healthier lives. In addition to chiropractic, acupuncture, massage therapy and other complementary health care benefits, ASH also provides discounts on gym memberships and even offers health and wellness products such as vitamins and other supplements in an onsite store.

ASH also reimburses employees for entry fees in organized physical fitness activities, such as 5k walks and races and marathons. These are just some of the reasons why ASH was named one of the best large companies in San Diego to work for by San Diego Magazine.

“Our employees are truly the backbone of our company,” DeVries said. “By giving them the tools that teach them the importance of nutrition and fitness, we can help them lower their risk for disease and lead healthier, more active lives. The best way to stand behind the programs we offer our clients is to lead by example in our own workplace.”

Other employers are taking notice, said DeVries. Studies have shown that a healthier workforce is one that has less absenteeism, lower health care costs, and higher productivity. Creating a “culture of wellness” in the workplace, said DeVries, has helped many employers look at the different ways they can support their employees’ health goals, and at the same time, reap the benefits of a healthier workforce.

Some employers, including ASH, are even offering incentives to employees for reaching certain health and fitness goals. Employees who participate in ASH’s Exercise Rewards Program may receive a voucher for health and wellness products just for exercising 3-4 times per week over the course of a year.

While ASH may not be the only employer embracing the culture of wellness, it may be the most creative. That’s why you may see its employees sitting on exercise balls at their desks, instead of regular office chairs. (The exercise balls are designed to improve balance and posture.)

“If you have healthy employees, employees who are taking care of themselves and exercising, we believe that truly reduces the costs of the employer,” DeVries said.

About American Specialty Health

American Specialty Health (ASH) and its subsidiaries provide complementary health care benefit, fitness, wellness, and affinity discount programs to health plans, employer groups, and others nationwide.

ASH, which includes subsidiary Healthyroads, Inc., covers more than 12 million members in benefit programs, more than 400,000 in wellness programs, and more than 80 million in affinity discount programs nationwide. ASH has more than 500 employees at its headquarters in San Diego and regional offices in New York, Chicago, Dallas, Washington, D.C., and 16 other cities.