The American Heart Association recently recognized Massachusetts General Hospital as a 2008 Start! Fit Friendly Company. Mass General Hospital received the gold award, meaning that it is a company that creates a culture of physical activity in the workplace.

Mass General Hospital is part of an elite group of 316 companies nationwide who have received Fit Friendly status this spring. This award names Mass General Hospital as a true champion in the health of its employees.

To receive the Start! Fit Friendly Company Gold Award, Mass General Hospital had to meet an array of standards. Criteria for the award included increasing healthy eating options at work, promoting a wellness culture, and implementing several activities that improve physical activity levels, nutrition and culture among employees.

Putting employee health first

Specifically, the American Heart Association recognized Mass General Hospital for its complete employee wellness program called Be Fit. This structured program offers the following resources to employees:

• Help with incorporating moderate exercise into a daily routine
• Nutrition education
• Assistance with personal health and fitness goals

The Start! initiative addresses the number one killer in the United States – cardiovascular disease. By encouraging physical activity, nutrition and general wellness in the workplace, the American Heart Association hopes Americans will live longer, healthier lives.