Archive for the ‘Wellness/Prevention’ Category

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Snowboarder Video As Much About Miracles as Helmet Safety

January 24th, 2012 by Patricia Donovan

Spoiler: This video has a happy ending. But not all athletes participating in extreme sports are so lucky. Last week’s tragic death of Canadian freestyle skier Sarah Burke underscores the physical risks these athletes face each time they “strap in.”

The fact remains that in 2009, hospital emergency rooms, doctors’ offices, and clinics treated 353,346 injuries related to these winter sports activities, according to a position paper by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS). The medical, legal, work loss and pain and suffering costs were more than $9.28 billion.

Know any “shredders” who think helmets aren’t cool? You might want to share this video with them.

The newly released film Moving Forward chronicles the recovery to date of Danny Toumarkine, a professional snowboarder from New Hampshire who suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) while snowboarding in Montana on a film trip in January 2011. (Full disclosure: My nephew Tom is the human greeting card in the video.) After a grueling year of multiple brain surgeries, physical rehabilitation and sheer determination, Danny was able to return to the slopes to “ride” this month.

Danny wasn’t wearing a helmet at the time he was injured, but this video is a convincing argument for the use of “brain buckets” in any type of riding. Sarah Burke was, and there is no indication at this time that equipment played any part in her injury and subsequent death. According to the AAOS position paper, the National Ski Patrol recommends wearing a helmet while skiing or snowboarding:

Studies show that helmets offer considerably less protection for serious head injury to snow riders traveling more than 12-14 mph. Safety and conscientious skiing and riding should be considered the most important factors to prevent injury, while helmets provide a second line of defense against head injuries.

Snowboarders face greater risks, the paper continues:

The 1999 CPSC evaluation of snow skiing and snowboarding-related head injuries found that snow boarders are 30 percent more likely to have a significant head injury than skiers. One of the most common causes of injury is collision with fixed objects, such as trees. More than 40 percent of the annually reported snow skiing and snowboarding-related head injuries could have been prevented or minimized with helmet use.

And even for helmet-wearing athletes, speed is a considerable factor in the severity of a head injury:

The purpose of the helmet is to partially absorb the force and dissipate the energy of blunt trauma in an effort to protect the head. While helmets do not decrease the risk of injury, they can decrease the severity. A study found 15 skull fractures among 27 fatal head injuries. Six of these fractures were depressed, suggesting that protective gear may be of benefit. Several studies in Sweden show that the use of helmets has reduced head injuries by approximately 50 percent.

More detail on Danny’s yearlong struggle is chronicled in the Danny is the Bomb blog created by his brother Conor to keep friends and family abreast of Danny’s condition, to accept donations for Danny’s medical expenses and to raise helmet and TBI awareness in action sports.

Posted in Avoidable ER Use, Healthcare Costs, Wellness/Prevention | No Comments »

Q&A: HRHC Diabetes Collaborative Relies on Tiered Care Management, Registries

January 23rd, 2012 by Jessica Papay

Patient care partners, innovative weight management tactics, patient registries and even telepsychiatry are part of the team approach to diabetes management at Hudson River HealthCare (HRHC) Diabetes Collaborative. The New York-based network of FQHCs finds that tiered care management generates the best outcomes for its patients with diabetes, explains Kathy Brieger, RD, CDE, HRHC’s chief operations officer, prior to her presentation on Diabetes Management in the Medical Home.

HIN: The Hudson River HealthCare (HRHC) Diabetes Coalition uses a patient-centered team approach to manage diabetes in its more than 3400 adult patients with the disease. HIN recently did a survey to find out about disease-focused programs in particular, those that manage diabetes. Our respondents told us that weight management is the most challenging aspect of this disease. Would you concur? If so, how does HRHC address weight management in its population?

(Kathy Brieger): I would agree with this. Weight management is one of the most challenging focuses of this condition. In order to meet this challenge, we’ve had to look at programs from a variety of aspects. We started walking clubs in some communities to encourage physical activity. There’s also a Taking off Pounds Sensibly group, which is a Weight Watchers format but at a lower cost for patients who may be at a low income. We’ve done programs on mindful eating and general ways of looking at portions. We’ve also done a lot of work related to children and preventions. I think this is a big target. We focus on prevention and giving people the options of attending a variety of program formats for weight loss.

HIN: Over the last 12-18 months we’ve seen that case managers are increasingly employed on site, in primary care practices, to assist with the management of chronic illness. Are there any case managers in the HRHC mix?

(Kathy Brieger): This is a key question to diabetes management. We’ve found that a team-based approach to care is really the most effective. We have several team members who help to case-manage the patients. And that includes everyone from a dietician to people called patient care partners. Patient care partners may not have a clinical license, but are trained in motivational interviewing and help to serve as a bridge between the clinical team and the patient. We also have sophisticated, high-level RN care managers who work in a targeted way with patients who have diabetes. Those are usually the patients who have comorbidities and who may have poor control over their diabetes. At Hudson River HealthCare, we look at a team-based approach using different levels of care to get the best outcomes. We find that that really is the most effective.

HIN: The more sophisticated care managers are for the sicker patients with comorbidities. How do you assign patients to the other two levels of management?

(Kathy Brieger): We have some reporting systems because we do have an electronic health record; we use eClinical Works® (ECW). We have different cutoffs for the care manager. We’ve run the registries. For people who have hemoglobin A1Cs of over 8 or 9, the care manager reviews them and she’ll pull off people who may have some of those indicators. Also, the medical providers will tell us, “This person may not have a hemoglobin A1C of over 8 or 9, but they’ve been in and out of the hospital several times.”

Right now, we’re also working with hospitals to get us hospital discharge summaries so we can see if those people who may have some unstable situations that we’re not aware of can be pulled in. For every single person who has diabetes, their care is also managed by the patient care partners. We taught them how to use the registries, how to call people in for group classes and how to send letters out for our programs. These levels are done in a three-tiered approach using the care team so that the patient care partner who is assigned to the care team, the nurse who is assigned to the care team and the provider assigned to the care team would together be able to route or send people to the right place. The bulk of our patients are able to do the low-level patient care part. It’s just the top 15 percent that are having some issues.

HIN: It sounds like registries are important to the program.

(Kathy Brieger): Yes, they are. Over 10 years ago, we started with the Patient Electronic Care System (PECS) as part of the federal government’s move to get a population health underway, but it was a limited standalone registry. And then about three years ago when we became fully electronic, we were able to get our registries and our reports done on all patients with all conditions, and that is valuable. We’ve done a lot of work on training our staff on how to use registries; it’s not so helpful just to have registries; you have to know how to use them.

We’ve tried to use registries as a teaching tool for everyone from even clinical assistants in training all the way up to the providers. They know how they can use it to have more effective team-based care, more effective disease-based focus, and even prevention of things like, “When did you get your mammogram done last?”

HIN: And finally, are there any applications in telehealth, telemedicine or remote monitoring that you are using successfully in the management of diabetes?

(Kathy Brieger): Yes. We’re involved with telemedicine, focusing on telepsychiatry at one site. We have purchased equipment and are right now getting it cabled for six different locations, so that we’ll be able to expand our services in the telemedicine area. We do have some sites that are located in remote areas. We are unable to get some specialists that may help in the management of diabetes. We think telemedicine will be a great resource in improving some access to services that may not be available in some of those remote areas. Even though we’re in New York, people think we have all types of access to specialists, but there are areas where they do not exist, even in New York. We’re looking forward to having that happen.

Posted in Case Management, Disease Management, Health IT, Patient-Centered Medical Home, Telehealth & Telemedicine, Wellness/Prevention, e-Health | No Comments »

New Wellness Coach Profile: Meet Christy LeMire

January 13th, 2012 by Jessica Papay

Here we take an inside look at a wellness coach, the choices made on the road to success, and the challenges ahead.

Christy LeMire, certified holistic health coach and owner of Waterside Wellness.

HIN: What was your first job out of college and how did you get into health coaching?

Christy LeMire: For my first job out of college I was an assistant director for an early childhood education center in Roxbury, MA. I believe this experience planted the seed for wanting to work with people on a personal level and help children and families. I often spent time listening to single parents’ struggles to find balance juggling work and caring for their children. I also noticed the food limitations in the school regarding quantity and quality, and how it affected the children’s behavior, which made me concerned.

Have you received any health coaching certifications? If so, please list these certifications.

I am certified as a holistic health coach by the Institute of Integrative Nutrition and SUNY Purchase College. I will also become board certified as a holistic health practitioner by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners this year.

Has there been a defining moment in your career? Perhaps when you knew you were on the right road?

There have been many reassuring moments. Above all, seeing people start to value their bodies and their health through the education they receive in my program has been the most rewarding. It proves that a support system focused on the specific health of an individual does make a difference in their life and that health coaches are needed in our communities.

In brief, describe your organization.

Waterside Wellness offers personalized nutrition, wellness and lifestyle counseling. I tailor my program based on the particular needs and desires of my clients. We work together to determine their health goals and I support them to achieve those goals in realistic, enjoyable ways. Education is also a big part of my practice. I believe the more informed we are about how food and lifestyle affects our health and future, the better choices we make and the more satisfying those decisions are.

What are two or three important concepts or rules that you follow in health coaching?

  • Bio-individuality — no one diet or way of living works for everyone.

  • Making changes step-by-step allows for sustainable healthy practices.

  • Food is not the only thing feeding us; our careers, relationships, exercise and spirituality all contribute to our health.

What is the single-most successful thing that your company is doing now?

I currently offer a health coaching program designed specifically for brides-to-be who are looking to loose weight, manage time and stress, and start their marriage off as their most beautiful, healthy self. I find this is something all brides want and often need support in achieving while planning for their big day. It is also an opportunity to support women throughout changing times in their lives when they need support the most. Brides turn into wives who often turn into mothers. Finding balance between career and family can be challenging. Many women feel the need to be a “superwoman” and a little support and encouragement goes a long way.

Do you see a trend or path that you have to lock onto for 2012?

Obesity and diabetes in children is more present than ever, mostly because of fast-food diets and sedentary lifestyles. It is predicted that many of today’s parents will outlive their children. I want to do my part in helping this issue by working with parents and making nutrition education accessible to schools.

What is the most satisfying thing about being a health coach?

Seeing clients find a renewed energy, positive outlook and achieve results toward their health goals is extremely satisfying. We are in control of our bodies and our happiness. We just need to be reminded sometimes.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in a small town in Vermont where being active outdoors and eating home cooked meals with my family were big parts of my life.

What college did you attend? Is there a moment from that time that stands out?

I attended Emerson College. Trying to balance classes, homework, internships, work and eating healthy on a tight budget stands out as a challenge. Thinking back to that time helps me keep things in perspective and reminds me that people often have hectic lives, and expectations need to be simplistic and realistic when it comes to beginning to incorporate positive change.

Are you married? Do you have children?

I am married to my high school sweetheart. We look forward to having children when the time is right.

What is your favorite hobby and how did it develop in your life?

Regular yoga practice came into my life a couple of years ago as a way to relieve stress. Now, I can’t live without it. I also enjoy capturing emotion and natural beauty through photography.

Is there a book you recently read or movie you saw that you would recommend?

The documentary, “Discover the Gift,” is a film about self-discovery and living a life you love. I think it will resonate well with anyone who is feeling lost in their life, career, or spiritual practice and in need of inspiration.

Any additional comments?

I invite you to visit my Web site and follow my blog for healthy tips, recipes and inspiration. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter. I offer free consultations for those interested in discussing their health goals and learning more about how a health coach can support them in achieving health and happiness.

Posted in Disease Management, Wellness Coach Profile, Wellness/Prevention | No Comments »

New Wellness Coach Profile: Meet Ramona Fasula

January 3rd, 2012 by Jessica Papay

Here we take an inside look at a wellness coach, the choices made on the road to success, and the challenges ahead.

Ramona Fasula, owner of Wellness by Ramona.

HIN: What was your first job out of college and how did you get into health coaching?

Ramona Fasula: My first job out of college was working for a mortgage company. I continued my path in the financial industry working in banking and then I worked as an analyst for an investment management firm. I was laid off during the financial crisis and it forced me to think about my life and what I wanted in my career. The day I was laid off, I had a conversation with a friend of mine, who said that I’ve always been into health and fitness and I was great with people. She encouraged me to follow my passion and start my own business. I always wanted to own my own business, but I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. It took losing my job to figure it out. The next day, I enrolled at the Integrative Institute for Nutrition and got my health coaching certificate 11 months later. It was the best decision I ever made in my life. My father always told me that if you do not have your health, you have nothing, and that is true. Your health affects every aspect of your life. To be able to help other people live longer, healthier lives is rewarding. I could not ask for a better job.

Have you received any health coaching certifications? If so, please list these certifications.

I am a certified holistic health coach. Beginning this month, I will be attending an integrative nutrition cooking program for six months. I will also be working on becoming a certified aromatherapist. Once I finish those programs, I will be pursuing a PhD in naturopathic medicine.

Has there been a defining moment in your career? Perhaps when you knew you were on the right road?

I knew I was on the right track when one of my clients, who has fibromyalgia, told me that she had been through 10 specialists in one year and I was the only person who has been able to help her. She had lost 40 pounds, which is something that she hadn’t been able to do before she started working with me. Symptoms of the fibromyalgia had also started to disappear.

In brief, describe your organization.

My goal is to offer many different healing modalities to my clients. Starting this month, I will be expanding the business. In addition to health coaching, I will be offering healthy cooking classes, Reiki and raindrop therapy, which is an amazing technique invented by Dr. Gary Young, who owns Young Living Oils. I strongly believe in the power of education. The more education that I receive, the more I can offer my clients.

What are two or three important concepts or rules that you follow in health coaching?

Every day, take the time to focus on your “primary foods” and evaluate what you are getting out of them. This includes career, spirituality and the relationships that you keep, among other things. If you are not getting out of them what you’d like to, then you need to make some changes in your life. Unfortunately, primary foods affect the types of foods that you eat. You want to make sure that you are nourishing your body, mind and spirit each day. They are all connected. I also strongly believe in the power of positive thinking. Positivity attracts positive things into your life, while negativity will do the opposite.

What is the single-most successful thing that your company is doing now?

Right now, the focus has definitely been school; however, I have been working on developing relationships with the American Diabetes Association and the Juvenile Diabetes Association. Diabetes is an epidemic in this country and it needs to be stopped. The way to do that is through education. I am planning to do many diabetes workshops this year to teach people how to not only manage this disease, but to prevent it. Knowledge is power.

Do you see a trend or path that you have to lock onto for 2012?

I will work with anyone who needs my help, but I would really like to focus on working with diabetics. My father passed away from complications of the disease 10 years ago and I’m convinced that if I knew then what I know now, he would still be alive today. There are 25.8 million Americans suffering from this disease and 8 million who go undiagnosed. That number is expected to triple by 2050. Diabetes is all about diet, and I believe that so many diabetics do not know how to eat for this disease. In memory of my father, I want to help people so that they don’t have to suffer the way that my father did.

What is the most satisfying thing about being a health coach?

To be able to wake up every day, knowing that you made a difference in someone’s life. That’s why I am a health coach — to make a difference.

Where did you grow up?

I was born in Staten Island, NY. I lived there for 10 years, moved to New Jersey for a year, and then to Pennsylvania where I still live today. I live right outside of Philadelphia.

What college did you attend?

I attended Millersville University in Lancaster, Pennsylvania for my undergraduate degree, which is in marketing. In December I finished up my MBA at UMASS-Amherst.

Are you married? Do you have children?

No, I’m not married yet. I believe that in order to have a successful marriage, you need to know who you are and what you want out of life. I feel like I’m just figuring that out right now.

What is your favorite hobby and how did it develop in your life?

Dance has always been my passion. I took dance lessons for many years. Thanks to the television show “Dancing with the Stars,” I really started getting into ballroom dance. I had to stop taking lessons for a while because my MBA became too time consuming.

Is there a book you recently read or movie you saw that you would recommend?

I recently read “Battlefield of the Mind” by Joyce Meyer. Health is not just about what you eat, it is also about what you think. Thinking positive thoughts has a profound impact on your health, so we definitely need to make sure that we are guarding our mind and thinking positive, healthy thoughts. I would definitely recommend this book.

Posted in Disease Management, Health Coaching, Wellness Coach Profile, Wellness/Prevention | No Comments »

Meet Case Manager Linda Conroy: Breaking Down Barriers Between the Hospital and Community

December 23rd, 2011 by Cheryl Miller

This month we provide an inside look at a healthcare case manager, the choices she made on the road to success, and the challenges ahead.

Linda Conroy, RN, BSN, Clinical Integration Case Manager for Hartford Physician Hospital Organization (HPHO)

HIN: What was your first job out of college and how did you get into case management?

Linda Conroy: I started my nursing career as an LPN and obtained a position as a case manager at a home care agency. I spent the next 15 years going to school part-time and working at home care agencies part-time. After obtaining my BSN. I went to work at Hartford Hospital in the Clinical Research Center as a clinical research associate. From there I accepted a position as a case coordinator/discharge planner and I am currently working at HPHO as a clinical integration case manager. I was able to get into case management as an LPN due to my recent employment at The CT Hospice in Branford. The home care agency at the time was starting a hospice program.

Has there been a defining moment in your career? Perhaps when you knew you were on the right road?

I knew I was meant to be a case manager from the beginning. I found it to be both challenging and rewarding. I loved the process of identifying barriers to my patients’ health and researching resources.

What are two or three important concepts or rules that you follow in case management?

Always try and understand what the patient is feeling. Allow the patient/family to guide me in what they want and how they want to reach their goals. Do No Harm.

What is the single most successful thing that your organization is doing now?

The HPHO is working with Hartford Hospital to reduce the rate of readmissions for our patients that are discharged with a primary diagnosis of congestive heart failure. We are working with several home care agencies and skilled nursing facilities to provide improved transition of care and education to both family and patient.

Do you see a trend or path that you have to lock onto for 2012?

I plan to continue to work with the team to develop effective interventions to assist our patients in managing a chronic illness, and to break down silos both within the hospital and in the community.

What is the most satisfying thing about being a case manager?

Enabling patients and families.

What are your favorite hobbies, and how did they develop in your life?

I love to garden, play golf and knit. My mom taught me how to knit when I was seven and I have found it to be very relaxing and therapeutic. I love being outdoors and finding ways to make my yard fun. I play golf to be with my husband.

Is there a book you recently read or movie you saw that you would recommend?

Yes, “Still Alice” by Dr. Lisa Genova.

Posted in Behavioral Health, Case Management, Case Manager Profile, Disease Management, Reducing Readmissions, Transitions in Care, Uncategorized, Wellness/Prevention | No Comments »

Medicare Weighs in on Obesity Counseling for Seniors

December 15th, 2011 by Cheryl Miller

Call it Medicare meets the Biggest Loser.

CMS is now swallowing the costs of screening and counseling for beneficiaries considered to be obese, or at risk for obesity. Doctors determine patients’ eligibility, and those who meet the requirements, or have a BMI greater than or equal to 30 kg/m2, get to participate in the program.

Eligible “contestants” receive dietary and nutritional assessments and face-to-face counseling sessions in a physician’s office each week for a month, and then every other week for an additional five months. The “biggest losers,” or those that lose at least 6.6 pounds, or 3 kg during those six months, get continued sessions for up to a year.

The benefits of the program far outweigh the costs, given the burden that obesity places on states: a recent study from Duke University showed that obesity costs states $15 billion a year in medical expenses. And according to the CMS, over 30 percent of both men and women in the Medicare population are estimated to be obese, a condition that is directly and indirectly associated with many chronic diseases, including those that disproportionately affect racial and ethnic minorities such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Efforts to help curb the epidemic aren’t new; as we reported in our recent survey on Obesity and Weight Management, nearly 72 percent of respondents said they were implementing programs to manage weight or prevent obesity. While adults accounted for the largest population target, 6.4 percent of respondents said that they were targeting the Medicare population with their weight control programs.

Unlike the “Big Reveal” on the network series, we won’t get to see the transformed patients, unless they land gigs with Weight Watchers or Jenny Craig. But the program might take an ever so small bite out of the existing healthcare costs facing us today, and the participants’ loved ones might get to hold onto them (figuratively?) for a little longer.

Posted in Behavioral Health, HIN Blog, Health Coaching, Wellness/Prevention | No Comments »

Got an Idea? CMS Offers $1 Billion in Health Care Innovation Challenge

November 28th, 2011 by Cheryl Miller

The CMS continues to reward innovation in healthcare; the latest initiative, the New Health Care Innovation Challenge, plans to award up to $1 billion in grant money to organizations that come up with creative ways to deliver healthcare, improve care and lower costs. The agency will take notice of projects that can be up and running within six months and that can hire, train and deploy workers rapidly. Funded by the PPACA, it’s a push for both creative healthcare solutions and increased healthcare job opportunities in as short amount of time as possible, contrary to the Innovation Advisors initiative launched in October, which seeks healthcare solutions over a year long, labor intensive period. All segments of the healthcare industry are encouraged to apply for the Innovation Challenge; December 19th is the cut off date for LOIs.

A quick, innovative, effective solution is also needed to alter the latest statistics on diabetes furnished by the IDF on World Diabetes Day (November 14th): studies show that one adult in 10 will have diabetes by 2030. Far too many are already afflicted with the preventable disease, including 78,000 children suffering with type 1; this despite the fact that the greatest number of diabetics fall within 40 to 59 years of age. The IDF is hoping that continued international awareness of this problem will help; and the agency is in the midst of a five-year campaign to promote diabetes education and prevention programs. Ironically, the CMS cited one health system that worked with community partners to decrease the risk of diabetes with nutrition programs as inspiration for its Healthcare Challenge initiative. Food for thought.

Another area of concern is the number of seniors receiving the wrong medication during their home healthcare visits. The Journal of General Medicine recently published a study stating that nearly 40 percent of patients 65 and over are prescribed potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) at rates three times higher that patients who visit a medical office. Some of the blame can be placed on our fragmented healthcare system, researchers said: home health-based patients see multiple physicians who don’t communicate with each other, resulting in the wrong medication. Perhaps most troubling about this study is that the majority of these patients are taking 11 medications on average, and nearly half of them are taking at least one PIM, researchers say.

And lastly, one quick fix that should boost care access for patients: a new clinical affiliation between CVS Minute Clinics and Emory Healthcare. The stand alone clinics are open seven days a week in select areas throughout metropolitan Atlanta and have nurse practitioners on hand to administer wellness and preventive services and tend to common family illnesses. Patients who need care not provided at the clinics will be referred to Emory Healthcare. Both CVS and Emory hope to streamline the process with the use of EMR systems. These stories and more in this week’s issue of Healthcare Business Weekly Update.

Posted in Accountable Care Organizations, Avoidable ER Use, Bundled Payments, Disease Management, Health IT, Healthcare Costs, Healthcare Trends, Hospital Readmissions, Uncategorized, Wellness/Prevention | No Comments »

New Health Coach Profile: Meet Babs Hogan

November 10th, 2011 by Jessica Papay

This month’s inside look at a health coach, the choices he or she has made on the road to success, and the challenges ahead.

Excerpted from the November 2011 HealthCoach Huddle.

Babs Hogan, certified wellcoach and health and fitness specialist certified through the American College of Sports Medicine.

HIN: What was your first job out of college and how did you get into health coaching?

Babs Hogan: I coached swimming in Los Angeles, Calif. After graduating from Texas A&M University, I headed west until I hit sand. Health coaching at the time wasn’t invented yet.

Have you received any health coaching certifications? If so, please list these certifications.

I am certified through Wellcoaches, Inc.

Has there been a defining moment in your career? Perhaps when you knew you were on the right road?

When I started reading articles by Margaret Moore, the CEO of Wellcoaches Corporation, in the American College of Sports Medicine’s publications, I realized that I had been missing something important in my career as a personal trainer. At first, I thought that I was too rigid to become a wellcoach since I was always the one “in charge,” as a fitness trainer. After 22 years of making decisions for clients, I was concerned about making the transition. It took a few months of reading to consider registering for Ms. Moore’s well-established wellcoaching program. After the first day of class she asked, “What is your level of confidence that you will become a wellcoach?” I replied, “About 20 percent.” In a few weeks, I turned around.

In brief, describe your organization?

As a wellcoach, my focus is on parents. I coach families too, but I mostly work with parents by helping them adapt healthy behaviors. As they take control of their health, the children benefit too. It’s a trickle-down pattern of change.

What are two or three important concepts or rules that you follow in health coaching?

I try to heighten awareness of existing behaviors, assist clients in realizing how much control they have regarding their health and I identify a client’s personal strengths and continuously shine light on them.

What is the single-most successful thing that your company is doing now?

Focusing on preventing childhood obesity. I am presenting community seminars on reaching goals. I use Heidi Grant Halvorson’s book, Succeed: How We Can Reach Our Goals, as a guide. Last month, I started a book club in Arlington, Texas. I am also currently writing a book on childhood obesity and blogging about related issues. You can learn at my Web site. I am also presenting webinars on behavior change.

Do you see a trend or path that you have to lock onto for 2012?

Yes, I started a channel on YouTube called BabsWellcoach and most of my viewers are interested in the Les Mills Group Exercise videos. There are many great stories to be told and the Les Mills viewers are clearly tuned in. I will continue to create more videos about how people reach their health goals.

What is the most satisfying thing about being a health coach?

Helping people realize that wherever they stand right now is a great place to start. Wellcoaching discusses possibilities based on what you CAN do, not what you cannot. The mindset is always moving forward and not looking back. Once people realize that the power to change is in their hands and that they can move forward right NOW, amazing things begin to happen. The secret? Take small steps, gain confidence along the way, heighten awareness of the choices that are presented, and rely on your own strengths.

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in College Station, Texas.

What college did you attend? Is there a moment from that time that stands out?

I attended Texas A&M University. The honor of “College All-American,” which I received after 10 years and hundreds of miles of swimming, reinforced the old adage that hard work pays off.

Are you married? Do you have children?

I am married and have one grown son.

What is your favorite hobby and how did it develop in your life?

I like gardening. In my forties, I started paying attention to flowers. My next farming adventure will include growing herbs since my husband loves to cook.

Is there a book you recently read or movie you saw that you would recommend?

I’d recommend Heidi Grant Halvorson’s “Succeed” book that I mentioned earlier. This book should be on everyone’s coffee table.

Any additional comments?

Health coaching/wellness coaching/fitness coaching is not about forcing change. Change happens by choice. The process of coaching is an invitation for change carefully aligned with proper guidance and a gentle nudge along the way.

Posted in Disease Management, Health Coach Profile, Health Coaching, Uncategorized, Wellness/Prevention | No Comments »

New Wellness Coach Profile: Meet Jessy Hamawi

November 4th, 2011 by Jessica Papay

Here we take an inside look at a wellness coach, the choices made on the road to success, and the challenges ahead.

Jessy Hamawi, wellness coach, nutrition consultant, and certified personal trainer.

HIN: What was your first job out of college and how did you get into wellness coaching?

Jessy Hamawi: I went to Bradley University hoping to go to medical school right after. It wasn’t until my senior year that I realized I had a passion for nutrition and fitness. I started working as a personal trainer and fitness instructor at major health clubs in Peoria, Ill. Currently, I am the club manager and nutritionist on site at Club Fitness. Being in the health field has definitely made me aware of and conscious about one’s health. There are many diseases that can be prevented and even controlled if we take better care of our bodies. There is an alarming rise in obesity, hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and other controllable diseases. I believe that if you eat healthy by cutting out the unhealthy fats, excessive sugar and salt from your diet, and make exercise part of your daily life, you can make a difference in your overall health and prevent diseases.

Have you received any health or wellness coaching certifications? If so, please list these certifications.

I am a certified personal trainer as well as a kick-boxing instructor. It wasn’t until I almost graduated with my nutrition bachelor’s that I decided the importance of combining my love of exercise and healthy eating. I am currently a grad student concentrating on human and sports nutrition. Coaching comes naturally with the support and guidance of a personal trainer in order to make positive changes and bring balance to your life.

Has there been a defining moment in your career? Perhaps when you knew you were on the right road?

Every time I talk to my clients, whether it is during a consultation for weight loss or fitness training, I know that I am on the right path.

In brief, describe your organization.

Club Fitness is a multi-personal training facility where our certified trainers provide customized workout plans. Our personal trainers choreograph and oversee the entire workout routine to ensure proper form and goal achievement. We also teach the proper way to fuel the body, whether for weight loss or an athletic event. The members learn the proper combination of complex carbohydrates and lean protein to speed up the metabolism.

What are two or three important concepts or rules that you follow in wellness coaching?

Listening and helping my clients in achieving their nutrition and fitness goals and desires.

What is the single-most successful thing that your company is doing now?

Our club is successful at its multi-personal training approach. Also, we have a great weight loss program called “25 to 3,” in which our members are encouraged to lose 25 pounds by following a healthy well-balanced meal plan along with three personal training sessions per week.

Do you see a trend or path that you have to lock onto for 2012?

Focusing on health and decreasing or preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension or other cardiovascular diseases, through combining exercise and nutrition.

What is the most satisfying thing about being a wellness coach?

Educating others about what it takes to achieve a healthier lifestyle, the importance of fitness and healthy eating. It’s not just about what a person looks like and what they need to do to be a certain way, but about what I can do to help others feel better about themselves. I want to help everyone in any way that I can. In regards to training, I’m most proud of reaching my goal to become a more fit and healthy person. About three years ago, I was not happy with how I looked and felt. I decided to start dedicating my time to taking better care of myself, and within a year, I had made drastic changes to my physique. Since then, I’ve had a positive and rewarding journey.

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Beirut, Lebanon. I attended high school in Lawrence, Mass. and college in Peoria, Ill.

What college did you attend?

I obtained my Bachelor of Science from Bradley University and my master’s from Eastern University.

Are you married? Do you have children?

I am not married and do not have children.

What is your favorite hobby and how did it develop in your life?

I have a few hobbies, one being hiking. Besides it being an amazing outdoor exercise, I enjoy the scenery. I also love cooking. My favorite part is substituting ingredients to make the recipe healthier.

Is there a book you recently read or movie you saw that you would recommend?

One of my favorite documentaries is “Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About his Father.” This movie has left such an impact on me.

Any additional comments?

There is a beginning point for everyone. All it takes is for that switch to flip to begin your journey. Take it one day at a time and do not beat yourself up if you have the occasional “slip-up.” It’s not about having fitness consuming your entire life, but it’s about enhancing it. Realize that self-love improves not only your life, but also the lives of others around you.

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New Wellness Coach Profile: Meet Michelle Greenman

October 13th, 2011 by Jessica Papay

Here we take an inside look at a wellness coach, the choices made on the road to success, and the challenges ahead.

Michelle Greenman, certified health and wellness coach.

HIN: What was your first job out of college and how did you get into health coaching?

Michelle Greenman: My first job out of college was working at a private school teaching English as a second language (ESL). I had been teaching and tutoring before graduating and now was ready to move on. My husband and I moved to Lillooet, British Columbia from Toronto, Ontario and after two years of teaching and working with bands, I wanted to take on more of what I felt was my calling. My mom sent me the information for coach training, but I was in a car accident and couldn’t go to the training. I spent three months away from work and reading health books. After recovering about 40 percent, I decided to go and do the health and wellness coach training in South Dakota.

Have you received any health coaching certifications? If so, please list these certifications.

I am certified as a Christian health and wellness coach from Black Hills Health and Education Center in South Dakota. It is a lifestyle center that handles illness, drug and surgery free. Although I do consider myself a Christian, the certification means that we did not study hypnotism and neuro linguistic programming (NLP) like other coach programs teach. Instead we learned and I practice the art of hydrotherapy, herbal medicine and natural drug free healing.

Has there been a defining moment in your career? Perhaps when you knew you were on the right road?

At the training, through the help of classmates and teachers, I was able to make huge strides in recovery. Leaving there I was pretty close to pre-accident status. This was my own miracle, because the doctor suspected I might suffer from chronic back pain for the rest of my life; a scary prognosis for anyone. By using what I had learned, I was able to lose weight and recover from the accident injuries. I couldn’t wait to share all of what I had learned with others, and that’s when I started writing my first book, “Lose Weight Gain Health.”

In brief, describe your organization.

I am the sole proprietor of Michelle Greenman — Natural Health Educator and Wellness Coach. We teach classes, facilitate workshops and do individual and group coaching. We utilize proven comprehensive health principles and goal-oriented development to reach an international audience as an expert and activist for holistic natural healing and wellness. Our aspiration is that each client will recognize, prioritize and achieve their health potential and to enable each to experience wellness.

What are two or three important concepts or rules that you follow in health coaching?

We are committed to the audience of one, dedicated to providing each client with honesty and confidentiality. We exhibit genuine respect for values, caring for experiences and honor for personal truths.

What is the single-most successful thing that your company is doing now?

We teach people and write newspaper articles on RENEWAL; seven accessible, comprehensible, principles to wellness. These seven principles are the foundation of health for body, mind and soul. We believe each part must grow in unison to achieve wellness. RENEWAL stands for Rest, Environment, Nutrition, Exercise, Water, Alternatives and Limits. I also produce personalized health plans for clients based on these seven ideals.

Do you see a trend or path that you have to lock onto for 2011?

We are working to set up monthly coaching by subscription; delivering beneficial information and coaching questions to subscribers. However, we are almost finished with 2011, and looking forward to 2012, we want to have corporate coaching contracts.

What is the most satisfying thing about being a health coach?

Results! Seeing people get better and reach their health goals. Giving them hope that they can reach their goals, then seeing or hearing them do it. For instance, getting the notes back that say, “I have lost 30 pounds since we finished.”

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in downtown Toronto.

What college did you attend? Is there a moment from that time that stands out?

I graduated from the University of Toronto. At the end of my second year, I had a dream and woke up thinking I am not going to be a psychologist, but a teacher. Teaching would allow me to positively mold impressionable minds like some of my favorite teachers did.

I lived in Taiwan for a year, teaching before returning to Toronto. I changed majors and got married the end of my third year. Changing my major was definitely for the best, and getting the experience teaching and traveling definitely served me very well.

As a side story, the winter holidays of my first year at the university I traveled to the U. A. E. to visit my aunt who was working as a nurse there. Together we vacationed in Istanbul for a week. That experience as well as attending the university, told me that anything was possible to achieve. My plan after returning from Taiwan was to graduate and go back to the Middle East to teach. Getting married changed that, but coaching to me is a way of achieving the career and life I want.

Are you married? Do you have children?

I just celebrated my five-year anniversary with no children and no plans for children either.

What is your favorite hobby and how did it develop in your life?

My favorite hobby is to study the Bible. I love to search its pages and build studies to teach and publish. I have always had a connection to God. I have learned much about the best, holistic practices to regain health from the Bible. It does say “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.”

Is there a book you recently read or movie you saw that you would recommend?

I will always recommend the Bible. It is an anchor of a book that has worn out many hammers. It is profound, angering, loving and hope filled all at the same time. Movies that have impacted me profoundly are “The Day My God Died” (difficult to watch), “Earthlings” (very difficult to watch), “Stuff” (makes you want to change), and “Food Inc.” (always gets me a bit upset).

Any additional comments?

This is a career that does all I ever wanted and I love it very much. No matter how much work there is, it’s great to help others. I encourage people to check out my Web site and contact me for any questions or help. Plus I am on Twitter and Facebook.

My vision is to change the world by empowering the individual with holistic natural health activism, education and coaching and encouraging each to achieve wellness.

Posted in Wellness Coach Profile, Wellness/Prevention | No Comments »

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