Weighing in Against Obesity: How BCBSTX Helps Communities and Members

At Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX), we are as concerned about the health of our members as our community. Obesity is a public health crisis that dramatically impacts people’s health and well-being, along with health care costs. Estimates suggest that the U.S. annually spends nearly $200 billion on obesity-related health care expenses.

Recently Dr. Derek Robinson, vice president of Quality and Accreditation for the operator of BCBSTX, joined U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy and other leaders at a national obesity prevention forum in Washington, D.C. Dr. Robinson talked about our company’s holistic approach to addressing obesity, including community partnerships and intervention programs. The forum was sponsored by the Healthcare Leadership Council. This coalition brings together chief executives in health care to create policies, plans and programs to help achieve affordable, high-quality care that is accessible to all Americans.

“Obesity is one our nation’s most concerning diseases and public health concerns,” stated Dr. Robinson. “We understand that to win the fight against obesity, we must take a holistic approach to the problem by engaging with the community on outreach initiatives centered on preventive education, chronic disease management, physical activity programs and nutrition education.”

Our Community Commitment
BCBSTX supports nonprofit groups that help prevent health problems, promote healthy behaviors and lessen the impact of chronic conditions. We invest in programs to help reduce health care disparities and meet social needs that lead to good health. We also provide wellness resources to members that help them live healthier lives.

Examples include:

• Healthy Kids, Healthy Families^® (HKHF): One in three U.S. kids is overweight or obese. This puts them at greater risk for diabetes, heart disease and cancer. HKHF invests in local programs focusing on nutrition, physical activity, preventing and managing disease and supporting safe settings. We build playgrounds, help create safe places to play and support classes to teach healthy cooking.
  
   
• We work with reputable weight management programs that help our members make smart and healthy choices.
  
   
• BCBSTX offers members resources and discounts that promote healthy eating, being active and staying motivated. Members can use online tools to help manage diabetes and heart disease, conditions often linked to obesity. Employer groups can take advantage of wellness and condition management programs that address the health concerns of their employees.

The obesity fight must take place on many levels to win positive, long-term results. That’s why BCBSTX actively supports members, works with community partners and takes part in national programs.