Human Resources (HR) has organized a free "Wellness Program at HSPH," bringing specialists from the university's Center for Wellness and Health Communications to the school periodically to teach employees and students how to live healthier lives.

The program is part of an effort to broaden health options for school members. Three years ago, increases were made to the amounts of the fitness benefit-reimbursements to eligible faculty and staff for the costs of health club memberships, exercise equipment, weight loss programs and stress management courses. Now, qualifying HSPH members are eligible to receive a reimbursement of $350/year if they have worked at HSPH for less than five years, or $550/year if they have worked at HSPH for five or more years.

Fitcorp originally conducted nine wellness programs organized by HR. Approximately 300 HSPH members participated, said Trina Weekes, manager of administration in HR. The high turn-out prompted the latest series, now organized with University Health Services.

"The program provides health screenings and information on a number of topics," said Weekes. "Sometimes there are confusing messages in the public, for example, how many times and for how long you should exercise each week. This series helps provide answers from qualified professionals."

For more information, visit the web site available at http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/hr/WellnessEvents.htm. Please send questions to Ilia Maldonado at imaldona@hsph.harvard.edu