The results of the American Heart Association 2020 Workplace Health Achievement Index were announced today and Maine Veterans’ Homes achieved national Bronze Level recognition for taking significant steps to build a culture of health in the workplace. MVH is one of 776 organizations that completed the Index assessment this year, evaluating the time period of July 30, 2019 to June 30, 2020.
The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives, created the Index with its CEO Roundtable, a leadership collaborative of more than 45 members from some of America’s largest companies who are committed to applying evidence-based approaches to improve their employees’ overall health. The Index is a web-based scorecard that looks at organizational best practices and aggregates employee health data to evaluate the overall quality and comprehensiveness of workplace health programs. Studies show that worksites with a culture of health with comprehensive, evidence-based policies and programs, and senior leadership support are more likely to have engaged employees and a healthier, more productive workforce.
“The AHA award is presented to companies who demonstrate a commitment, both fiscally and programmatically, to improve the health of their employees and their workplace,” said Joanna Aronica, Wellness Manager at MVH.
“They look at the program’s structure and budget, policies, environment, communication tools, data analytics as well as our focus on key well-being areas: nutrition, physical activity, tobacco cessation /a tobacco free workplace policy, stress management and mental health.”
A unique feature of the Index is that it calculates an average heart health score for employees of participating companies that securely submit aggregate health data through Life’s Simple 7®,the American Heart Association’s definition of ideal cardiovascular health based on seven risk factors. Life’s Simple 7® includes smoking status, physical activity, weight, diet, blood glucose, cholesterol and blood pressure. Companies receive benchmarking reports, which allow them to identify potential areas of improvement so that they can advance their annual performance and recognition.
About MVH
Maine Veterans’ Homes in an independent nonprofit organization that serves Maine Veterans and their eligible family members. Our mission, “caring for those who served,” is at the forefront of all that we do and how we have become a leader in Veteran care in the state and the nation. We established our first home in Augusta in 1983; other locations include Bangor, Caribou, Machias, Scarborough and South Paris.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources.
