Peter Freska, CEBS
Benefits Advisor
The LBL Group, A UBA Partner Firm 

With the recent issuance of proposed rules for wellness programs under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), employers may start to rethink their wellness campaigns. Perhaps they may even think about initiating one. As most of us know, wellness programs without a “carrot or a stick” don’t work. Well, beginning in 2014, employers have up to 30 percent of the total cost of coverage for reward or penalty in wellness programs. Additionally, they have up to 50 percent reward or penalty for smoking cessation programs.

Source: Based on “Benefits Strategies: Using Data to Build and Drive Your Plan,” a presentation by Mark Schmit, VP, Research, SHRM, at the 2012 SHRM Conference in Atlanta.

Lipid Profiles: Fasting Not Necessary, Concludes Large Study

Guest Blog: By Valeria Tivnan

An article written for NPR by Ted Burnham, and published on April 3, 2012 analyzes a county by county health ranking report comparing national health trends. 

As we're all almost too well aware, breaking a sweat can prevent injury, sickness, and even depression. Even the slightest increase in physical activity can increase endorphine release and decrease the number on the scale. This is why doctors are recommending "walking orders" or an "exercise prescription."

The approaching summer months have a way of getting people off the couch. Beach anticipation can cause anyone to start chasing the desired waistline or perfect weight.  Try harnessing your beach body motivation and channel it into some appropriate, realistic and flexible goals. 

You’re the Wellness Leader; Act Like It

Tuesday, 24 January 2012, by Dean Witherspoon     

Guest Blog: Scott Andrews, Engagement Manager at Preventure