Principal Announces New Wellness Program

February 28, 2006 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - The Principal Financial Group has introduced a new wellness program - Principal HealthyEssentials.

According to the announcement, through the program, employers with group medical insurance from Principal Life Insurance Company receive a complete wellness strategy designed for their employees, often at no additional direct cost.

As part of the program, employers and their employees across the country participate in health and wellness screenings that include blood pressure checks, blood sugar readings, Body Mass Index testing and cholesterol checks. Each participant receives a Health Risk Analysis Report that provides feedback and recommendations for making healthy choices, the announcement said.  Combined with additional assessment tools, resources and assistance, the program is designed to encourage a healthy lifestyle and motivate members to become actively involved in staying healthy and making smart health care decisions.

Chas LaPierre, director of Principal Wellness Company, said in the announcement,  “Beyond cost containment, employers may see additional benefits including reduced absenteeism and potentially more productive employees.”

While Principal HealthyEssentials offers wellness solutions for group medical customers, Principal HealthyEdge is available to all employers interested in adding wellness components to the work place.  Both programs include health assessments, private consultations, personal high-risk interventions and customized wellness program development.

More information can be obtained at www.principal.com/wellness or by calling 800-354-1721.

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