Special to IFN

Iredell Health System has been recognized in the 2024 Healthiest Employers of Charlotte, an awards program created to honor people-first organizations that prioritize the wellbeing of their employees.

This is the fifth consecutive year the organization has won the award, placing second this year in its category with a score of 89.4.

Companies earning the title of Healthiest Employer are recognized because of their commitment to workplace wellness and their exceptional health and benefits offerings. Even with many employers returning to the office or to hybrid schedules, they have had to adapt their workforces to reflect the ever-changing views of the modern American office. Increased flexibility, work-life balance, and mental health resources have proven to be common trends among Healthiest Employers applicants.

Iredell Health System earned this recognition through a variety of different programs and benefits. The wellness program, powered by the Vitality platform, actively engages employees through a variety of events, including walking challenges and outdoor activities. The app, compatible with most smart devices, allows users to log activities and earn points, which can lead to discounts on insurance premiums for full-time staff. The user-friendly application facilitates easy event participation and tracking, and also provides updates on upcoming activities. A team of 12 employees collaborates with Vitality representatives to create tailored challenges and monitor participation statistics, ensuring events are suitable for all ages and work friendly.

Iredell Health System also offers an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) designed to support employees and their families by reducing stress and enhancing wellbeing. In addition to standard counseling for mental, behavioral, and relationship issues, EAP provides legal assistance, help with insurance claims, repair resources, and temporary housing if needed. It also offers support for issues related to obesity, smoking, drug dependence, and family crises. The EAP has been crucial in assisting employees with various personal challenges, such as finding care for an aging parent and resolving workplace conflicts. This comprehensive benefit includes free sessions and financial counseling, promoting overall wellness for employees and their families.

“Our focus on employee health and wellness is an integral part of this concept, as there is no one better to start with than our own,” Iredell Health System President & CEO John Green said. “Each year, I am proud to see our team work to develop new and innovative ways to keep our teammates focused on wellness so we can continue to lead our community on this and be prepared to care for others.” 

Annual Healthiest Employers applications are scored using a Rubric style 1-100 scale. The assessment is made up of six categories with yes/no, multiple choice, and short answer questions, with each question totaling .25-3 points. A Healthiest Employers Index (HEI) is assigned to each application to help rank among companies of similar sizes.

About Iredell Health System

Iredell Health System includes Iredell Memorial Hospital; Iredell Mooresville; two urgent care centers; Iredell Home Health; Iredell Wound Care & Hyperbaric Center; Community and Corporate Wellness; Occupational Medicine; the Iredell Physician Network and more. Iredell Memorial Hospital is the largest and only nonprofit hospital in Iredell County. The comprehensive healthcare facility has 247 beds; more than 1,800 employees; and has 260 physicians representing various specialties. Centers of excellence include Women’s and Children’s; Cardiovascular; Cancer; Surgical Services and Wellness & Prevention. The Health System’s second campus, Iredell Mooresville, is home to the area’s only 24 hour urgent care facility, as well as an ambulatory surgery center, imaging center, rehabilitation services, and physician practices. The mission of Iredell Health System is to inspire wellbeing together. For a comprehensive list of services and programs, visit www.iredellhealth.org.