Each year in January, South Central Indiana REMC hosts a health fair for their associates. “The health fair is part of our company program to educate employees about their health and wellness in order to help them and their families make smart lifestyle choices for a healthy future,” Norma Tomak, Director of Human Resources said. “Everyone is typically thinking of losing weight, eating healthy and getting more exercise right after the New Year and we like to capitalize on their enthusiasm.”

The Health Fair which happened Jan. 16 and 17 and included screening for blood pressure, height and weight with body mass index calculation, fasting glucose and lipid panel, and mini assessments and information about heart health, stroke, diabetes, asthma, depression, and ergonomics.

The health fair is conducted through collaboration with the educational department of Morgan Hospital and Medical Center. “The hospital brings a full compliment of staff to assist with the program and to answer employees questions,” Tomak said.

“The benefits of the health fair far outweigh the per person cost for the service,” comments Kevin Sump, CEO for SCI REMC. “Participation in the wellness program helps to control the increase in medical insurance costs and the company and employees share in the wellness discount received from our medical insurance provider.”

Other benefits include lower employee absenteeism, a mini-check up that assists with early healthcare intervention and provides up to date information to the employees regarding various health topics. Also included in REMC’s wellness program is a monthly health newsletter, an employee assistance program, and a corporate discount at the local Morgan County YMCA.

For more information on designing a health fair for your business, contact Norma Tomak, Human Resource Director at SCI at 765-342-3344 or Robin Nelson, Director of Education and Training at Morgan Hospital and Medical Center at 765-349-6518.

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