Well, it seems like winter has finally introduced itself. I hope everyone has taken the necessary steps to prepare both physically and logistically for what’s ahead of us: yes, that ounce of prevention still beats a pound of cure.

Speaking of which, you should already have received information about our 2016 Wellness Initiative, myHealth Matters. Like last year, this program aims to make it more simple, more fun, and more rewarding for our employees to make the changes that lead to a happier, healthier life.

This year our commitment to you is even greater. We have increased the wellness credit to $300, and you can earn those points by completing a single challenge like joining a smoking cessation program, a weight management program, or even a mindfulness program!

MyHealth Matters is administered by a third party: this ensures that your personal information stays personal. Your individual health data is never shared with your employer on an individual level. By taking part, you can demonstrate that we take our own health just as seriously as that of our patients. Your health matters to everyone in your community: friends, families, and coworkers.

Getting started is easy for benefitted employees. Just visit http://www.yourwellnessmatters.org. The portal has been active since December 21 and has seen a lot of interest, with more than 500 of you accepting a wellness challenge in the first week alone.

While completing a single challenge can earn your $300 wellness credit, further participation in challenges – like getting a flu shot, or seeing your doctor for an annual physical – can put you in the running for $50 or $100 gift cards from Amazon.com. So stay tuned for more programs and events throughout the year!

Thanks for all your great ideas and for taking great care of our patients and one another,

Eric