Nichols Wellness Program Focuses on a Healthy Lifestyle
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| (L to R) Nichols Vice President of Administration Susan K. Tellier; President & CEO of The Health & Wellness Institute Michael Samuelson; USI New England Executive Vice President Joel H. Cooper (and Nichols alum); Nichols Director of Human Resources Rick Woods |
"I would suggest that what you consider to be your health plan (HMO Blue of New England) is actually your sickness plan," Michael Samuelson told Nichols College faculty and staff at a wellness luncheon on September 18th. Samuelson is an internationally recognized authority in the areas of healthcare economics and health & wellness who stresses the importance of healthy lifestyle.
Samuelson said, "It's time to move past the dialog about why our healthcare system is falling apart and do something about it". He stated that each of us has radar capable of detecting early warnings about personal health issues. "In terms of your own health, it's your responsibility."
Samuelson was the keynote speaker for the kick-off of the Nichols College Claims Impact and Wellness Program partnership with USI New England. Participating employees schedule a physical examination with their primary care physician, who identifies key health factors, including: blood pressure, cholesterol, and body mass index. The employee submits the findings to USI New England for a further analysis of accepted health ranges. Employees are asked to pursue a course of action to bring the results within accepted ranges by May 31, 2009. Various incentives, such as free meals at Lombard Dining Hall, additional vacation time, and reimbursement of co-pays & deductibles, are being offered to employees who meet their wellness goals.
Nichols Director of Human Resources Rick Woods states, "Nichols Wellness Program incentives may be the motivating factor for many employees, but the real reward is improved health and wellness. We hope that participating employees feel better, look better, and reduce their need for costly healthcare. Both the College and employees benefit."
As Samuelson outlined 12 understandings for a healthy lifestyle, he emphasized the importance of moving out the "Village of Someday," a self-defined state of inertia. In matters of health, he advised putting on your own mask before trying to assist others: "The most selfless thing you can do is to be selfish about your own healthcare."
Samuelson discovered he had breast cancer nine years ago. After meeting a friend who was in chemotherapy, Samuelson felt a growth in his breast and decided to seek immediate medical advice. "Like most men, part of me didn't want to know," he said.
"Everyone has stones in their life path," Samuelson told the audience in Daniels Auditorium. "You can gingerly walk around them because you're too afraid to know what lies underneath. After all, you might find something that is creepy, crawly and slimy. But once you pick up the rock, you're never a victim, and sometimes you find a real treasure."