• E-mail
• Print
• Comment
• Font Size
• Digg
• del.icio.us
• Discuss article

Virginia Employees Lose 4 Tons, Together

Posted on: Thursday, 22 May 2008, 00:00 CDT

Virginia's state employees have found not only can they work side by side, they can lose weight together -- a total of 4 tons, so far, officials say.

Since January, Virginia state workers have had an employee benefit that allows them to participate in one of four Weight Watchers offerings. Employees who follow specific guidelines are eligible for a 50 percent reimbursement on the offering of their choice.

So far, participating employees in the pilot program have lost more than 8,000 pounds.

Adrienne Fegans, an employee at the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services who helped set up a Weight Watchers At Work meeting at her agency, said the program really works.

At Work meetings provide a built-in system for encouragement and sharing successes with our co-workers, Fegans said in a statement.

Gov. Tim Kaine said weight loss is one of the key factors in preventing heart problems, diabetes and joint pain.

It is important for everyone to take personal responsibility for their health, Kaine said. These employees are leading the way in that effort among the state workforce.

Source: United Press International

More News in this Category