The Ohio Department of Health has honored Parma Community General Hospital with a Healthy Ohio - Healthy Worksite award for demonstrating a commitment to employee health.

The Office of Healthy Ohio – based at the Ohio Department of Health and focusing on health promotion, disease prevention and health equity – recognized 33 employers across the state for comprehensive worksite health promotion and wellness programs. Parma Hospital was the only hospital in Cuyahoga County to earn this distinction. 

“Workers spend a significant time at their jobs,” said Cynthia Crosthwaite, chair of the Healthy Ohio Business Council. “Healthy practices at work almost certainly will translate to healthy practices at home and a valuable reduction in health care costs. These Ohio employers are leading the way in providing exemplary workplace wellness programs for their employees.”

Winners were recognized at gold, silver and bronze levels. Parma Hospital, which received an Honorable Mention the previous year, was presented with a Silver Level award.

At Parma Hospital, the commitment to wellness begins at the top – President & CEO Terry Deis actively participates in wellness initiative throughout the year – and runs throughout the organization. From senior management through clinical staff and support services, wellness is emphasized through the Vivo (“The Quest to Live Well”) campaign. Beginning with the formation of a Wellness Committee in 1996, Parma Hospital has stepped up its longtime commitment to wellness by:

• Going smoke-free across the campus and at all off-site facilities, including WellPointe Pavilion in Broadview Heights and Diagnostic Imaging at Ridge Park Square. Smoking was eliminated on the campus in 2006, and smokers are no longer hired to work at Parma Hospital.
• Hiring a full-time wellness coordinator in 2008 who offers biometric testing and personalized fitness plans, teaches exercise classes and coordinates wellness campaigns like the hugely popular “Biggest Loser Challenge.”
• Opening a fitness facility on the hospital campus in January 2009. WellFit offers round-the-clock access for employees, volunteers and members of the Medical Staff, as well as complementary exercise classes for members. 
• Providing healthy Vivo foods in the Cafeteria that have no trans-fats and are low in sodium and saturated fat.