Fall 2012 issue of Horizons

LiveWell includes free health risk assessments, lifestyle coaching, access to a health center which includes on-site medications prescribed for minor conditions,injury treatment, lab work, and vaccines – all administered by a team that includes a nurse practitioner, dietitian, fitness professional, and wellness coach. The health center is located in city hall, where a large number of employees work. This makes the trips to visit a health professional fast and efficient. “I can walk downstairs two minutes before my appointment and be seen right away,” commented Grube. Of the offerings listed above, one that results in immediate savings to the city is use of a nurse practitioner at city hall to administer many basic health needs. This practice prevents some expensive visits to a hospital, and effectively utilizes the capabilities of a medical professional qualified in many of the same areas as a doctor, but at a reduced rate. The longer-term savings are expected to be realized through reduced instances of chronic conditions such as heart disease, lung disease or diabetes through the use of the dietitian, fitness professional and wellness coach.

Implementation did not come without an upfront financial commitment by the city. Significant premium incentives to the employees to participate in the LiveWell program and the build out of the health center and fitness area were among the investments that the city was willing to make. The return on investment has already been realized financially in the short term; and with participation exceeding 95% of eligible employees, the healthcare savings to the city related to a healthy employee population is expected to save them even more money in the long run.

RubinBrown’s Public Sector Services Group Through our extensive list of clients, including many cities and governmental entities, we understand the issues unique to the public sector.

Jeff Winter, CPA – St. Louis Partner-In-Charge Public Sector Services Group 314.290.3408 jeff.winter@rubinbrown.com

Kaleb Lilly, CPA – Kansas City Partner Public Sector Services Group 913.499.4417 kaleb.lilly@rubinbrown.com

Bert Bondi, CPA – Denver Partner Public Sector Services Group 303.952.1213 bert.bondi@rubinbrown.com

Chester Moyer, CPA – Kansas City Manager Public Sector Services Group 913.499.4445 chester.moyer@rubinbrown.com

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