 LAST CHANCE TO GO FOR GOLD
April 20th is the last day to start your individual action plan
In order to complete your individual action plan by the June 30th deadline for earning gold, April 20th is the last day to begin a WebMD lifestyle improvement program or request a paper version of the WebMD exercise or nutrition program. Read more
June 30th - Deadline for completing an individual action plan
APRIL HEALTH HERO SHIRLEY ZHANG
“Tai Chi is like coffee . . . you feel good . . .” Shirley Zhang describes Tai Chi as the appetizer or desert for your complete exercise menu – it’s not enough on its own, but if you don’t have it, you feel like something’s missing. Read more
IN MEMORY OF A FORMER HEALTH HERO
Mike "Bucky" Buchanan Mike “Bucky” Buchanan who was a Health Matters Health Hero and advocate for Healthy Incentives passed away hiking on March 10, 2010. Read More
CHOOSE WELL
Checking in with new Group Health members
Better customer service, easier access to doctors and rapid online feedback are what employees who made the switch from KingCare to Group Health are finding.  Several hours after landing in Seattle after a Hawaiian vacation where he was injured in a body boarding accident, Christine Lange and her husband were sitting with their Group Health doctor in her office. Read more
Senior IT analyst Tom Braman, who is often on the cutting edge of online tools, is even impressed by the “cool factor” of Group Health’s online, secure shared medical record. Read more
 APRIL IS ALCOHOL AWARENESS MONTH
Alcohol abuse is a serious problem in the U.S.
In 2007, more than one fifth of people older than 12 participated in binge drinking at least once in the last 30 days. If you have considered cutting back, or if a doctor has suggested you drink less, you’re not alone. These resources may help you. Read more
EAT SMART
Added sugars - not so sweet for your healthExcess sugar intake has been linked to the growing obesity epidemic. But how much is too much? Recently the American Heart Association has proposed specific guidelines. More
 MOVE MORE
King County Walks Week: April 5 - 9
Register online to walk with your co-workers for 15 minutes this week and earn a free tote bag. Join a hosted walk from the Chinook building or walk on your own with co-workers. Read more  Gear up for Bike to Work Month
May is Bike to Work Month. Gear up this month and try a bike commute – there’s never been more help for new riders. In April sign up for the Bike to Work Month Challenge and mark your calendar for educational seminars to help you get the rubber on the road. Read more
 STRESS LESS
Money stress can tax your healthThe added stress of tax season can put your health at risk. Fortunately, taxes don’t have to be a major source of stress. These tips can help you reduce the stress of tax time. Read more
 QUIT TOBACCO
Your heart will thank you for itSmoking is expensive. Quitting is free! Check out these free tools to help you be smoke free. Read more
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