Know Your Numbers Campaign a Healthy Success

MANCHESTER, N.H., July 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- In an effort to help Manchester city workers better understand the keys to a healthier lifestyle, the City and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in New Hampshire (Anthem) recently sponsored a free 'Know Your Numbers' program open to all employees.

The health screenings -- which included tests for blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol -- were held in locations across the Queen City; in all more than 270 employees took part.

"We're very pleased with the turn-out," said Jane E. Gile, SPHR, Human Resources Director, City of Manchester.  "We strongly believe in educating all of our employees about possible health risks and feel that programs like this are key to that ongoing effort."

Anthem's Medical Director, Richard P. Lafleur, M.D., F.A.C.P., says that the screenings provided to the employees serve two main purposes:  to provide a current baseline of key information such as blood pressure and cholesterol, and for use as a 'conversation starter' with one's physician.  "These screenings are never meant to replace a doctor's visit," Dr. Lafleur said.  "But they can certainly serve as a catalyst for positive lifestyle changes we can all make."

According to Denise McDonough, Regional Vice President of Sales at Anthem, the 'Know Your Numbers' campaign literally represents a healthy investment in city employees.  "By providing employees with this service, we're helping to create educated consumers who are active partners in their own health and wellness," she said.  "We are happy to collaborate with the City in this important effort."

Ms. Gile said that all employees who took part in the screenings received a gift card to Hannaford Super Market.  She added that based on the success of the program and interest shown by employees, the City and Anthem were already looking into other possible wellness offerings in the future.

About Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in New Hampshire

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Anthem Health Plans of New Hampshire, Inc., an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ®ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.   Additional information about Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in New Hampshire is available at www.anthem.com. Also, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/healthjoinin, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HealthJoinIn, or visit our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/healthjoinin.

SOURCE Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in New Hampshire