Salem Health has achieved the Health Champion Designation from the American Diabetes Association. This designation recognizes companies and organizations that inspire and encourage organizational well-being and is part of the Association’s Wellness Lives Here^SM initiative.

“Salem Health is honored that our commitment to making the health and wellness of our employees a priority has been recognized by the American Diabetes Association. Our goal is to encourage the adoption of healthy habits which will benefit our team members, their families, and our company’s productivity and morale overall,” said Human Resources Vice President Laurie Barr.

To qualify for the Health Champion Designation, a company or organization must meet the healthy living criteria in nutrition, physical activity and organizational well-being.

Salem Health’s Community Health Education Center was a key factor in achieving the national award. The Center offers more than 80 classes, events and support groups each month aimed at improving health and well-being. Classes are discounted for employees and many, like “Freedom from Smoking,” are provided free of charge. The hospital also offers many healthy food options in its restaurants and coffee shops and even has healthy vending.

Salem Health is a smoke-free work place. In Salem, it has worked closely with neighbors and city leaders to ensure that sidewalks and parks adjacent to its campuses remain smoke-free.  

Salem Health believes that caring for its more than 4,000 staff members helps improve the health of its community. The health system’s benefit plan offers incentives, including reduced insurance premiums to individuals that participate in the LiveWell program. LiveWell encourages staff to assess their health and participate in a personalized and flexible array of activities known to improve well-being.

The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight to Stop Diabetes and its deadly consequences and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. For the past 75 years, its mission has been to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. To learn more about the organization and Wellness Lives Here, go to www.diabetes.org/wellnessliveshere

Salem Health — an OHSU Partner — offers exceptional care to people in and around Oregon’s mid-Willamette Valley. It is comprised of hospitals in Salem and Dallas, a medical group of primary and specialty care providers, plus other affiliated services. For the second consecutive year, the hospital in Salem received the prestigious 2016 Truven Health 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals — placing it among the nation’s highest performing hospitals. Visit us at www.salemhealth.org; “Like” us on www.facebook.com/salemhealth; follow us on Twitter: @salemhealth; and view us at www.youtube.com/salemhealth.