Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois Evolves its Role, Commits to Health and Wellness of Members and C...( New mission a bold step forward; ...),Health

New mission a bold step forward; Health and wellness a priority at all levels, staffing, products, human resources, and community involvement

CHICAGO, March 20 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) today announced a new mission reflecting cultural changes spanning all aspects of the company's business and corporate citizenship. The new mission statement, "to promote the health and wellness of our members and our communities through accessible, cost-effective, quality health care," reflects the company's focus on health and wellness both internally and externally.

"Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois was among the first health insurance companies in the nation. By embracing and promoting health and wellness, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois once again is playing an active role in transforming health care in our state," Paul Boulis, BCBSIL president, said.

To this end, BCBSIL has undertaken the following steps:

Tools and resources promote members' health and wellness

BCBSIL today announced new wellness tools and resources that enhance the role of health insurance. Now, employers can integrate educational tools, lifestyle management programs, worksite wellness initiatives, and communications to help members manage their health.

Full release:

http://www.bcbsil.com/about_us/newsroom/wellness_tools.htm

Worksite wellness leader recognizes insurer's own wellness programs

The Wellness Councils of America awarded HCSC, which operates BCBSIL, a 2007 Gold-level "Well Workplace Award." The award recognizes the company for the implementation of successful wellness programs at BCBSIL and its Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans in New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Full release: