FirstFleet, Inc.

Important Update to your 2020 Wellness Rewards Program

Wellness Committee — Fri, 29 May 2020 14:30:00 GMT

In order to give you more opportunities to earn your Wellness Premium Discount for 2021, employees in the FirstFleet medical plan can now complete either a Personal Health Assessment OR Biometric Screening by July 31, 2020 to qualify for premium savings.

In addition to your Wellness Premium Discount, you can earn an extra $180 in Rewards in 2020.

Personal Health Assessment (PHA): $50* reward

To access the PHA:

Log in to your MyPortal account at firstfleetinc.com.
Choose Employee, then click on Employee Benefit Info.
Click Access BCBST to log in to your personal account and access the PHA.
Click Managing Your Health
Click Member Wellness Center
You will be taken to your personalized wellness page where you'll be prompted to take your PHA
Click Get Started Now! to begin

Biometric Screening: $50* reward

To access your screening form, you can:

Download a physician form and take to your doctor for your annual wellness visit.
Log in to your MyPortal account at firstfleetinc.com.
Choose Employee, then click on Employee Benefit Info
Click Access BCBST to log in to your personal account
Choose the Managing Your Health tab, and click Biometric Screening
Click Choose your preferred service option
Click Select Physician Results
Click Select Physician Results Form
Click Download your Physician Results Form
You can also call 800-451-6889 to request that a physician form or lab voucher be mailed to you.

Lifestyle Coaching: $20* reward per session (4 per year max $80)

Contact a coach to schedule a session by calling 1-866-498-9806 or sending a secure message from the Member Wellness Center or AlwaysOn app.

As a note, all newly-hired employees hired AFTER MAY 31, 2020 will be grandfathered into the wellness qualifications for this year. These participants are not required to take the Personal Health Assessment nor Biometric Screening in 2020, but encouraged to take part in the plan for the incentives.

For help with your rewards, click Rewards under Managing Your Health on bcbst.com or reach out to us at Wellness@firstfleetinc.com.

2020 WELLNESS PROGRAM IS ACTIVE!!

Wellness Committee — Tue, 18 Feb 2020 16:00:00 GMT

The 2020 Wellness Plan is underway!! Our team is excited to see what the new year has to offer all FirstFleet participants and families this year to complete the one wellness requirement for the year. In order to avoid additional premium costs EVERY COVERED EMPLOYEE under our health insurance plan must complete a Biometric Screening by July 31, 2020.

For 2020, the Physician Form that you will use for your Biometric Screening must be downloaded/printed directly from your account in BlueAccess.com by clicking on the Access BCBST link on your portal page. Instructions can be found here. You can also call 1-800- 451-6889 to have the form emailed to you or mailed to your home address. Once the form is completed by the physician, make sure it is FAXED DIRECTLY TO THE LAB at 412-432-5714 and keep the original for your records. Please do not fax your form to FirstFleet.

Covered providers can be located by calling the Member Services phone number on the back of your insurance card (1-800-565-9140). Biometric Screenings may also be done at many of the clinics that perform DOT physicals for FirstFleet drivers.

As a note, all newly-hired employees hired AFTER MAY 31, 2020 will be grandfathered into the wellness qualifications for next year. These participants are not required to take the Biometric Screening in 2020.

For more information and additional details, you may wish to visit the Employee Benefits page online here.

If you have any questions, please send an email to the Wellness Committee, and we will gladly answer any questions for you.

FirstFleet Wellness Initiative Deadline Soon

Wellness Committee — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 02:00:00 GMT

At FirstFleet, we take the health and wellness of our associates and families very serious.

One reason the company offers the Wellness program is to increase awareness of our health with screenings and coaching for our insurance participants. These options are open all year long for participation. However the biometric screening is to be completed by JULY 31, 2019 to take advantage of the premium incentives in 2020.

The second reason we offer the Wellness program is to promote stories of positive wellness improvements from all our associates. The Wellness team has a short series of video stories from our participants. We want to grow these videos to promote our Wellness journeys and success stories. Do you want to be a part of this? If so, reach out to wellness@firstfleetinc.com to share your story with us.

Wellness Plan 2019 - July 31, 2019 Deadline

Wellness Committee — Wed, 29 May 2019 15:31:00 GMT

Don’t miss your opportunity to avoid ADDITIONAL increases in your 2020 health insurance premiums. In order to avoid these additional premium costs EVERY COVERED EMPLOYEE under our health insurance plan must complete a Biometric Screening by July 31, 2019.

To complete the Biometric Screening, a basic annual well visit (physical) must also be completed by the employee’s medical provider or a local clinic. Covered providers can be located by calling the Member Services phone number on the back of your insurance card (1-800-565-9140). Biometric Screenings may also be done at many of the clinics that perform DOT physicals for FirstFleet drivers.

For 2019, the Physician Forms that you will use for your Biometric Screening can also be downloaded/printed directly from your FirstFleet account too! Click on the Wellness tab in the Employee Benefit Info page to download/print the entire form. Carefully complete the top part of the form, take it to your physician or clinic and then make sure it is FAXED TO 214-203-0346.

As a note, all newly-hired employees hired AFTER MAY 31, 2019 will be grandfathered into the wellness qualifications for this year. These participants are not required to take the Biometric Screening in 2019.

For more information and additional details, you may wish to visit the Employee Benefits page online here.

If you have any questions, please send an email to the Wellness Committee, and we will gladly answer any questions for you.

7/31 DEADLINE FOR WELLNESS BENEFITS

Wellness Committee — Mon, 25 Jun 2018 19:00:00 GMT

Don’t miss your FINAL opportunity to avoid ADDITIONAL increases in your 2019 health insurance premiums. In order to avoid these additional premium costs EVERY COVERED EMPLOYEE under our health insurance plan must complete BOTH the Personal Health Assessment (PHA) and a Biometric Screening BEFORE July 31, 2018.

For the PHA, you can now reach the Blue Cross website directly from your FirstFleet portal account. On your Employee Benefit Info page, you can on the link “Access BCBST” to log directly into your BlueAccess account.

Please note – The first time you log into the site, you will have to know your existing BlueAccess User ID and password. But after you enter this the first time, you will not need this information again. If you do not have a User ID with BCBST, you will need to create one, using the information on your Blue Cross insurance card.

Instructions to complete the PHA can be accessed from this link.

To complete the Biometric Screening, a basic annual well visit (physical) must also be completed by the employee’s medical provider or a local clinic. Covered providers can be located by calling the Member Services phone number on the back of your insurance card (1-800-565-9140). Biometric Screenings may also be done at many of the clinics that perform DOT physicals for FirstFleet drivers.

For 2018, the Physician Forms that you will use for your BMS can also be downloaded/printed directly from your FirstFleet account too! Click on the Wellness tab in the Employee Benefit Info page to download/print the entire form. Carefully complete the top part of the form, take it to your physician or clinic and then make sure it is FAXED TO 214-203-0346.

As a note, all newly-hired employees hired after May 31, 2018 will be grandfathered into the wellness qualifications for this year. These participants are not required to take the PHA nor Biometric Screenings in 2018.

For more information and additional details, you may wish to visit the Employee Benefits page online here.

If you have any questions, please send an email to the Wellness Committee, and we will gladly answer any questions for you.

2018 Wellness Program - Start Now!

Wellness Committee — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 22:30:00 GMT

Wellness 2018 is underway, and the team is excited to see what the new year has to offer all of the FirstFleet participants and families this year to complete the wellness requirements for the year. As in years past, the Personal Health Assessment (PHA) and Biometric Screening (BMS) are still the only two requirements for participants to complete for qualifications for the premium differential in 2019.

We do have some new features for the plan this year to make the PHA and BMS much easier for all participants. For the PHA, you can now reach the Blue Cross website directly from your FirstFleet portal account. On your Employee Benefit Info page, you can on the link “Access BCBST” to log directly into your BlueAccess account.

If you have any questions, please contact us at wellness@firstfleetinc.com

7/31 DEADLINE FOR WELLNESS BENEFITS

Wellness Committee — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Don’t miss your FINAL opportunity to avoid ADDITIONAL increases in your 2018 health insurance premiums. In order to avoid these additional premium costs EVERY COVERED EMPLOYEE under our health insurance plan must complete BOTH the Personal Health Assessment (PHA) and a Biometric Screening BEFORE July 31, 2017.

To complete the PHA, please log on to www.bcbst.com and go to Blue Access.

Instructions to complete the PHA can be accessed from this link.

To complete the Biometric Screening, a basic annual well visit (physical) must also be completed by the employee’s medical provider or a local clinic. Covered providers can be located by calling the Member Services phone number on the back of your insurance card (1-800-565-9140). Biometric Screenings may also be done at many of the clinics that perform DOT physicals for FirstFleet drivers.

The Physician Screening Forms are personalized this year with your specific information to take to your primary care physician. You can access these directly on your BlueAccess account at www.bcbst.com. Blue Cross can email one or mail it to your home by calling 877-412-4828.

As a note, all newly-hired employees hired after May 31, 2017 will be grandfathered into the wellness qualifications for this year. These participants are not required to take the PHA nor Biometric Screenings in 2017.

For more information and additional details, you may wish to visit the Employee Benefits page online here.

If you have any questions, please send an email to the Wellness Committee, and we will gladly answer any questions for you.

2017 BIOMETRIC SCREENING - PHYSICIAN FORMS ONLINE

Wellness Committee — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 23:00:00 GMT

As we have discussed, the 2017 Wellness Program is underway, and one the requirements for 2017 is the Biometric Screening to be completed by JULY 31, 2017.

All Blue Cross participants can obtain their personalized Physician Screening Form directly from their BlueAccess account. This change in the form allows you to print the form and take it to your primary care physician without having to complete any personal information prior to the visit.

In order to download and print the form, you can simply:

Log into BlueAccess by logging into www.bcbst.com with your Username and password.
Click the "My Health and Wellness" link
Click on "Biometric Screening" link
Select the "Choose Screening" under the Physician Biometric Screening option.
Print the form to take to the doctor with you.

More detailed instructions are shown HERE.

Another big change this year is that you can fax or upload the completed Physician Biometric form directly to Blue Cross, without having your doctor send it from the office. So please have the doctor complete the necessary information and stamp the form prior to taking the form with you. Follow the instructions at the bottom of the form and fax it to 214-203-0346. This allows you to keep control of the screening form, as well as maintain a copy of your results of the screening.

If you have any questions, please contact us at wellness@firstfleetinc.com.

2017 Wellness Program - Start Now!!

Wellness Committee — Thu, 26 Jan 2017 18:00:00 GMT

FirstFleet Wellness 2017 program is up and running!! So let’s get started!

Blue Cross participants and spouses can begin the process of earning your Blue Health Rewards now by taking the Personal Health Assessment on the BlueAccess site and completing the Biometric Screening either during your annual wellness visit at your primary care provider or at a screening event at certain locations. More information has already been mailed to your home regarding this process. Please read that information carefully as there have been some changes in the rewards program this year.

As in the past, all medical plan participants (not spouses) will be required to complete BOTH the Personal Health Assessment and the Biometric Screening by July 31, 2017 in order to qualify for premium savings in 2018. Plus, you will earn monetary rewards for completing the PHA, biometric screenings and other coaching sessions.

The Personal Health Assessment can be accessed on your BlueAccess site at www.bcbst.com or directly from your phone using the AlwaysOn app.

The Physician Screening Forms are personalized this year with your specific information to take to your primary care physician. You will be able to access those directly on your BlueAccess account at www.bcbst.com as well. Plus Blue Cross can email one or mail it to your home by calling 877-412-4828.

For more information and additional details you may wish to visit the Employee Benefits page online here.

As mentioned above, more information will be coming to your home soon on the 2017 Wellness Plan.

But the most important part is to get started on your wellness efforts now!!

Wellness Champions - Dan & Karen Eckelbarger

Wellness Committee — Thu, 03 Nov 2016 13:00:00 GMT

This Bluffton couple made a decision a couple of years ago that they could take charge of their own health by making small changes in their diet and movement to lose over 100 pounds between both of them. It took them to get to the point of not feeling good most of the time and some declining health issues to propel them to make some changes for the long-term.

By simply monitoring the foods they ate, decreasing sugary drinks and moving a little more, Dan and Karen realized the long-term benefits of what it takes to feel good over the long haul. Plus they used the health coaches that FirstFleet provides under the Wellness plan to help encourage them while they made these changes.

Please enjoy the video story of Dan and Karen Eckelbarger and their road to recovery and good health! If you cannot see the video below please click here to watch now. Please feel free to contact the Wellness team for any questions you have on making positive changes to your health.

Wellness Deadline Extended to 8/31

Wellness Committee — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 13:43:00 GMT

We wanted to provide one last opportunity for all participants in the medical plan to complete the wellness screenings this year. The deadline for completing these assessments has been extended to AUGUST 31, 2016.

Don’t miss FINAL opportunity to avoid ADDITIONAL increases in your 2017 health insurance premiums. As we’ve been sharing over these last several months, to avoid these additional premium costs EVERY covered EMPLOYEE under our health insurance plan must complete BOTH the Personal Health Assessment (PHA) and a Biometric Screening BEFORE August 31, 2016.

To complete the PHA, please log on to www.bcbst.com and go to Blue Access. Instructions to complete the PHA can be accessed from this link.

You can also take this assessment on the app called "AlwaysOn" too. Download the app from the Apple Store or Google Play. (This makes taking the assessment VERY EFFICIENT!!)

To complete the Biometric Screening, a basic annual well visit (physical) must be done by the employee’s medical provider or on-site at one of the Biometric Screening events that have been scheduled at local terminals. Biometric Screenings may also be done at many of the clinics that perform DOT physicals for FirstFleet drivers. Employees should check with their local manager about the availability of the Biometric Screenings at local clinics.

You can download and print the Biometric Screening form link.

If you have any questions, please send an email to the Wellness Committee, and we will gladly answer any questions for you.

2016 WELLNESS DEADLINE - JULY 31ST

Wellness Committee — Wed, 20 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Don’t miss your FINAL opportunity to avoid ADDITIONAL increases in your 2017 health insurance premiums. As we’ve been sharing over these last several months, to avoid these additional premium costs EVERY covered EMPLOYEE under our health insurance plan must complete BOTH the Personal Health Assessment (PHA) and a Biometric Screening BEFORE July 31, 2016.

To complete the PHA, please log on to www.bcbst.com and go to Blue Access.

Instructions to complete the PHA can be accessed from this link.

To complete the Biometric Screening, a basic annual well visit (physical) must be done by the employee’s medical provider or on-site at one of the Biometric Screening events that have been scheduled at local terminals. Biometric Screenings may also be done at many of the clinics that perform DOT physicals for FirstFleet drivers. Employees should check with their local manager about the availability of the Biometric Screenings at local clinics.

You can download and print the Biometric Screening form link.

If you have any questions, please send an email to the Wellness Committee, and we will gladly answer any questions for you.

DOWN 140 POUNDS AND COUNTING! - CARL BROADNAX

Wellness Committee — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 17:00:00 GMT

Motivated by the option of going on blood pressure medicine in 2014, Carl decided it was time to take his health into his own hands. The doctor informed Carl that he must lose weight to decrease his risks of a heart attack. At that time, Carl weighed 440 pounds. After making a life-change by simply instituting one hour of walking every day and changing his eating habits on the road, he has successfully lost over 140 pounds since that early diagnosis of obesity and high blood pressure, with a goal of losing 25 more pounds to hit his goal weight.

Carl urges all of us that this type of life-change can be done - as long as you are dedicated to making it happen. Since he is an over-the-road driver dispatched out of Jamestown, NC, Carl understands that making these types of changes while on the road can be difficult.. However, he proves that with these small changes in his movement and nutrition, all of us can be successful in making these changes for our benefit.

Please take a few minutes to watch this video from Carl Broadnax.

"Biometric screening saved my life!" - Frank Hudson

Wellness Committee — Mon, 28 Mar 2016 17:00:00 GMT

In late 2015, Frank Hudson realized he needed to meet the wellness requirements at FirstFleet. So he scheduled a wellness visit with a primary doctor to have his biometric test completed. What he did not realize when he made this appointment is how it would impact his life and the lives of his family.

Please take a few minutes to watch this message from Frank Hudson, who has served FirstFleet in Omaha, NE faithfully for many years. His story is a message of motivation for all of us to not just have our biometric tests completed this year, but to also understand how these numbers and measurements impact our lives and our health. What Frank's doctor found in this one test ultimately saved his life!

As a reminder, participants in the medical plan have until July 31, 2016 to meet the wellness requirements for 2016 by completing the biometric screening and taking the Personal Health Assessment on the BlueAccess site.

Portland, TN Wellness Hero - Melvin Brown

Wellness Committee — Fri, 04 Dec 2015 14:00:00 GMT

A few years ago, Melvin realized that he needed to take some steps to improve his health while he was on the road. Driving involves a lot of "sitting time" throughout the week. Many times, you do not feel like exercising on your time off or at home. Melvin knew that he needed to take some time to improve himself physically while he was in the truck. So a few years ago, he began doing a system of simple exercises while inside the truck on breaks. The system he shares with us in this attached video show us how he performs some exercises for multiple body parts, without taking much time. With the system of ab-crunches and push-ups on his bunk, he has transformed his health by losing weight and making himself stronger too. As Melvin shows all of us, it does not take long to get our bodies moving for strength and overall health.

Once Melvin made the decision to move more, he also realized he needed to get his nutrition in line with traveling through the week. He packs a cooler for every trip with healthy snacks and meals to keep his blood-sugar stable, so he does not feel like he has to stop and indulge in something that is not going to be beneficial to his body.

After you watch this video, we want to hear from you on what you do to stay in shape while on the road. We know there are many stories like Melvin's, and we want to help each of us live healthier, fruitful lives. Please post a comment on what your current physical activity is while you are on the road. Plus, if you have a good routine at home you want to share, please do so here.

Melvin - Thank you for being willing to share with us your in-cab exercises and telling all of us how easy it can be to stay in shape while on the road. You have faithfully served as a friend of ours in Portland, TN for almost 4 years, and we thank you for your service. This change has been positive for you, and we know it can be for others.

If you are unable to see the video below click here to view on YouTube

Portland, TN Wellness Hero - Mike Farmer

Wellness Committee — Fri, 13 Nov 2015 14:00:00 GMT

Mike Farmer was presented with answering a big question for himself a few years ago when he found out that he was going to be a father to a precious daughter. He had to make the decision if he was going to be willing to take the necessary steps for himself to ensure that he was going to be active and around for his wife and young daughter. Once he made the decision to make some changes, Mike found out that small changes can have a huge impact on your health.

Mike first decided to cut out his daily soda intake. As we all know, sodas are full of sugar (mainly high-fructose corn syrup) which are not supplying efficient fuel for our bodies, but make us slower and lethargic after consumption. Once he dropped sodas from his diet, the weight started dropping, which motivated him to make more necessary changes.

Now Mike enjoys real, fresh foods - fruits, vegetables and meat - and water. Even if he indulges in some non-healthy food options at times, he has dialed into his nutrition to not allow it to send him in the wrong direction over the long-term.

Mike has been a great friend of FirstFleet for 20 years, where he has faithfully served the customers and other associates in Portland. When he was confronted with his "WHY?" on making a change, he set his mind to it, and his whole family (including his FirstFleet family) has benefited from these changes.

Mike - Thank you for sharing your story with us in this video. We know your story will have a positive impact on many to make some necessary changes for themselves and their families too.

If you are unable to see the video below click here to view on YouTube

Ames, IA Wellness Hero - Tony Kellis

Wellness Committee — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 14:00:00 GMT

Tony has been working with the shop in Ames, Iowa since March of this past year. However, his journey to wellness started much earlier than his time with FirstFleet, But as you can see from his video here that he welcomes the opportunities that the Wellness Program at FirstFleet offers to everyone. He is determined to stay on top of his wellness to stay on track with losing more weight to feel as best as he can.

Tony has accomplished many things in his life already, and he is still very young. This shows the drive that he possesses to accomplish his goals personally. The drive he has is the big question of the "WHY?" that we want everyone in our Wellness Program to answer for themselves. In the near future, we will give you the opportunity to share the "WHY?" for you personally for incorporating wellness into your lifestyle.

Tony - Thank you for sharing your journey with us. If you are unable to see the video below please click here for the YouTube version.

Ames, IA Wellness Hero - Brian Imhoff

Wellness Committee — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 13:00:00 GMT

Brian Imhoff spends hours upon hours each week managing the fleet based in Ames, Iowa. He has worked in this role since September 2004. Brian is our featured Wellness Hero this week due to some recent changes he made in his lifestyle and nutrition after the Biometric testing at his location in 2014.

As Brian explains in the attached video, he was not satisfied with some of his results/markers from the test, and he realized it was time to make some changes. With his wife and three growing sons as his main motivation, Brian focused on some basic changes in exercise program and smarter choices in his nutrition. As you can see from the video, he has seen very positive results in a short span of time. Brian is a testament that once you make a choice to make a positive impact on your health, small changes can make a big impact on your health. His family was his main motivation, and they are now reaping the benefits of Brian's improved health. Thank you for sharing this with us Brian.

If you are unable to see the video below click here to view on YouTube.

BlueReview Wellness

Wellness Committee — Sat, 19 Sep 2015 17:00:00 GMT

The Wellness initiatives of FirstFleet are designed to encourage and support the health of its employees and their families while at the same time creating opportunities to better control the rising cost of healthcare. We encourage you to visit the Employee Wellness page (login required) for a listing of health and wellness resources.

Today we are adding a posting that contains the latest installment of Blue Cross Blue Shield’s BlueReview. BlueReview is an easy to read guide with lots of practical tips and information to help impact your health and wellness. This installment brings information about the coming flu season, fitness center discounts, controlling sugar intake, and much more.

Click Here for BlueReview

Wellness 2015 - Deadline extended to August 31st!!!

Wellness Committee — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 13:00:00 GMT

The Wellness Team wants all participants to have opportunities to reach your Wellness Goals for 2015 and take advantage of the benefits in 2016. The deadline has been extended to AUGUST 31, 2015.

Don’t miss your FINAL opportunity to avoid ADDITIONAL increases in your 2016 health insurance premiums.

As we’ve been sharing over these last several months, to avoid these additional premium costs EVERY covered EMPLOYEE under our health insurance plan must complete BOTH the Personal Health Assessment (PHA) and a Biometric Screening BEFORE August 31, 2015.

To complete the PHA, please log on to www.bcbst.com and go to Blue Access.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO FAST 8-12 HOURS PRIOR TO THE BIOMETRIC SCREENING. THIS WILL ENSURE THE MOST ACCURATE READINGS FOR THE SCREEN.

You can download and print the Hooper Holmes Biometric Screening form here.

If you have any questions, please send an email to the Wellness Committee, and we will gladly answer any questions for you.

2015 Wellness Update - July 31st Deadline

Wellness Committee — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 16:20:00 GMT

Don’t miss your FINAL opportunity to avoid ADDITIONAL increases in your 2016 health insurance premiums. As we’ve been sharing over these last several months, to avoid these additional premium costs EVERY covered EMPLOYEE under our health insurance plan must complete BOTH the Personal Health Assessment (PHA) and a Biometric Screening BEFORE July 31, 2015.

To complete the PHA, please log on to www.bcbst.com and go to Blue Access.

2015 Wellness Update - July 31st deadline

Wellness Committee — Tue, 07 Jul 2015 03:00:00 GMT

To complete the PHA, please log on to www.bcbst.com and go to Blue Access.

Wellness Survey - Reminder

Wellness Committee — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 18:00:00 GMT

As a reminder to all participants in FirstFleet's Wellness program, we wanted to remind you of the brief survey that you can take through this Friday, December 19th.

You can click on the link on the right to reach the survey. Wellness Survey link

The company wants your thoughts on the FirstFleet Wellness initiative this past year. The success of the Wellness Program consists of how well you benefit from the investment. In order to offer more opportunities for you to take advantage of this next year, we are asking you to take this very brief (2-3 minutes) online survey to tell us how you will benefit from the Wellness Program in the future. Please understand that your replies to this survey is anonymous and confidential.

This link will be active through December 19th.

We look forward to receiving the results from this anonymous survey in the coming days.

Thank you for your time to this effort.
FirstFleet Wellness Team

Wellness Survey 2015

Wellness Committee — Tue, 09 Dec 2014 03:20:00 GMT

As we complete the final days of 2014, we want your thoughts on the FirstFleet Wellness initiative this past year. The success of the Wellness Program consists of how well you benefit from the investment. In order to offer more opportunities for you to take advantage of this next year, we are asking you to take this very brief (2-3 minutes) online survey to tell us how you will benefit from the Wellness Program in the future. Please understand that your replies to this survey is anonymous and confidential.

You can click on the link on the right to reach the survey. Wellness Survey link

This link will be active through December 19th.

We look forward to receiving the results from this anonymous survey in the coming weeks.

Thank you for your time to this effort.
FirstFleet Wellness Team

Staying Healthy On The Road

Wellness Committee — Tue, 30 Sep 2014 19:48:00 GMT

We have found that this website (https://www.thehealthytrucker.net) is chock full of relevant information for our associates that spend the majority of your time on the road. This is a site that written by others in the trucking industry that are interested in providing useful tips to keep all of healthy while on the road.

We will forward our weekly updates to you through these blog posts, or you can keep up with the weekly tips directly by following this link to add your email at Fit and Fueled to receive the tips directly in your email. Fitand Fueled is a resource that is dedicated to providing you what you need to motivate you to remain healthy and active at all times.

Here is a sample of a recent Fit and Fueled article for you to read.

Plus, you can read these articles directly from the links provided here:

35 Minute In Cab Truck Driver Workout

1 Awesome Trucker Workout You Haven't Thought Of

The Best Workout Equipment for Cramped Spaces

10 In-Cab Exercises for Truckers

We will forward you more updates from Fit and Fueled weekly going forward. But more importantly, we all want to hear from you and exercise and nutrition habits that you have found beneficial for you. Please post a comment on this blog with your health tips.

Thank you,

Your Wellness Team

Wellness Update

Wellness Committee — Tue, 29 Jul 2014 13:00:00 GMT

Don’t miss your FINAL opportunity to avoid ADDITIONAL increases in your 2015 health insurance premiums. As we’ve been sharing over these last several months, to avoid these additional premium costs EVERY covered EMPLOYEE must complete BOTH the Personal Health Assessment (PHA) and a Biometric Screening BEFORE July 31, 2014.

To complete the PHA, please log on to www.bcbst.com and go to Blue Access. To complete the Biometric Screening, a basic annual well visit (physical) must be done by the employee’s medical provider or on-site at one of the Biometric Screening events that have been scheduled at local terminals. Biometric Screenings may also be done at many of the clinics that perform DOT physicals for FirstFleet drivers. Employees should check with their local manager about the availability of the Biometric Screenings at local clinics.

Wellness Update

Wellness Committee — Mon, 28 Jul 2014 13:00:00 GMT

Wellness Update

Wellness Committee — Fri, 25 Jul 2014 13:00:00 GMT

Wellness Update

Wellness Committee — Fri, 18 Jul 2014 19:03:00 GMT

Wellness Update

Wellness Committee — Fri, 11 Jul 2014 16:30:00 GMT

Get Fit on the Road

Wellness Committee — Thu, 10 Jul 2014 19:45:00 GMT

Getting a great workout while you’re on the road does not have to be a hassle. Fitness experts recommend 150 minutes of moderate activity every week – you can do that and more by taking short breaks to work out.

Pack Your Equipment
Here’s the good news: All the gear you need is portable and does not take up a lot of space. In fact, some workouts just require a truck step or bumper.

Pack weights and resistance bands the next time you hit the road. These tools will help you build strength and endurance – and they don’t take up much space in your truck.

The Basics of Exercise on the Road
You can do a lot for your body on a short break. Start by “warming up” for 5-7 minutes. You can walk, jog or do jumping jacks – any cardio exercise you like will work.

Next, use your gear to build muscle strength and stamina. Here are some creative ways:

Your truck bumper or step can help you perform push-ups, triceps dips, wall planks, wall sits, step-ups and side planks.
Use your weights or resistance bands for squats, presses, bicep curls, triceps extension exercises, side bends, dead lifts and back extensions.
Cool down and stretch out after your workout. It helps your muscles heal after your workout – and makes you less sore the next day!

Get the Most Out of Your Workout
Make short fitness breaks part of your daily routine. In the beginning, try not to overexert your body. Slowly work it into your day, and as you improve, increase your time, exercises, resistance, sets, and/or reps. If you keep the same daily exercise routine, the body will adapt in about 2-3 weeks. By changing up your daily routine, you will keep seeing results!

For more info on stretching and staying in shape while on the road follow this link to the healthy trucker.

A Healthy Meal: Filling Up the Right Way

Wellness Committee — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 13:00:00 GMT

Food is the fuel your body uses to get through the day. What is filling your body?

When you eat healthy food, you are more likely to feel energized and alert – ready to go the extra mile. If you fill up on junk food, chances are you will feel sleepy and sluggish instead of motivated to tackle your next challenge.

The Building Blocks of a Healthy Meal
Your body needs protein, healthy fats and carbohydrates – they are the foundation of a healthy meal. Here are a few foods and snacks you can easily include in your diet:

Nuts, cheese, lean meats, and fish are good sources of protein.
Olive oil, seeds, nuts, avocados and fatty fish like salmon are good sources of healthy fat.
Fruit, wholesome vegetables and rice are good sources of carbohydrates.
Vegetables are great sources for fuel and antioxidants for your body. You can eat many servings of them daily to get the right amount of essential vitamins, minerals and fiber.

The next time you’re tempted to stop for a hamburger and fries, choose a balanced meal instead – you’ll get better mileage with the right fuel in your tank!

Action Required : Avoid 2015 Premium Differential

Wellness Committee — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 22:00:00 GMT

This year, FirstFleet is helping our employees get “On the Road to Good Health” by offering major incentives for program participation. If you have not already created an account on BlueAccess, that is your first step! We will be sending you confirmation of your incentive eligibility using the BlueAccess system, and if you are not signed up, you could miss out on important information!

Remember: If you complete the following steps before August 1st, you will avoid paying a substantial premium differential in 2015 that will amount to significant savings for families and singles alike.

Complete a biometric screening using the instructions below.
Fill out your Personal Health Assessment (PHA) by logging into BlueAccess and choosing “Get Started”. If you need assistance setting up your BlueAccess account follow this link.

Biometric Screening Instructions
Complete your screening at an onsite event, or go the doctor of your choice—all you have to do is ask that provider to fill out a physician screening form (download here). You can find the form on the Company website under the Employee section.

Wellness Gift Cards Provided to PHA Participants!

Wellness Committee — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 22:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to 201 Blue Cross participants who completed the Personal Health Assessment in the first two months of the year!!! The first round of gift cards have been sent to all of these participants this past week for those who have started their path to wellness!!!

There is another round of congratulations to 11 other participants who have already taken that next step to wellness by completing at least one round of the OnMyTime self-directed coaching sessions. Since some of these participants had already completed two of these sessions (which is our annual maximum), FirstFleet sent sets of gift cards to these participants this past week.

These are great numbers to start the year, but this is just the beginning. We are anticipating sending many more gift cards throughout the year. This all depends on you taking the time to start the process.

Just as a reminder, when you complete these steps, you will receive:

$30 Completing the Personal Health Assessment

$50 Completing a Self-Directed Coaching Session (limited to 2 per year)

$50 Completing a Health Coaching Program (limited to 2 per year)

$50 Completing the Biometric Testing (more information to come soon)

As you can see, FirstFleet is very interested in our associates achieving and maintaining a healthier lifestyle, and we want to offer these incentives to help you move in that direction. Please see your Fleet Manager or click here for further information on these benefits.

To finish, we want to acknowledge these sites as our “Top 10” in regards to those participants taking the Personal Health Assessment in the first two months of the year. Congratulations to all of these sites! We want to extend this challenge out to all of our associates to encourage others in the company to jump on board and start on this path.

St. Louis, MO	64%
Maryland Heights, MO	40%
Russellville, AR	27%
Delaware, OH	21%
Cedar Rapids, IA	19%
Henderson, KY	17%
Middletown, NY	13%
Atlanta, GA	12%
Lynchburg, VA	12%
Morristown, TN	11%

Keep up the great work all!!

Arizona Takes on Biggest Loser Challenge

Wellness Committee — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 19:10:00 GMT

One of the best ways to inspire others is to hear directly from those that have been inspired. The Wellness Team is pleased to present you this week the Arizona office’s version of the Biggest Loser Challenge! Over 50 associates related to the Tolleson, Arizona location, including our drivers, mechanics and office administration, have decided to tackle this 3-month challenge of losing unwanted pounds and looking for a healthier lifestyle.

And there is no better way to hear of their progress than hearing directly from those active participants. Here are some statements from a few of those in the Challenge:

“I accepted this fitness challenge to better my health. I have set myself a goal, and I am going to do my best effort to accomplish my goal. I think it would be a good start for a better and healthy lifestyle. My plan is to eat healthier and exercise more. It’s going to take a lot of discipline, but it can be done. I think this is a great opportunity for all FirstFleet employees to better our lifestyle”
- Guillermo H. - Mechanic in Arizona

“I am going to lose weight. I understand I need to change my ways. I am overweight, and I want to be healthy for the rest of my life. I started by buying healthier food and not going out for lunch for fast food. I am determined to lose a healthy amount of weight and have a better aspect of myself. I will win this competition no matter what it takes!!!!”
- Richard V. - Mechanic in Arizona

“I was asked to participate in the challenge, and I gladly accepted the challenge. I think it’s a fun way to get healthier and lose those extra pounds. I am looking forward to starting the competition and seeing a loss of weight across the company.”
- Tony S. - Mechanic in Arizona

“I knew that I was heavier than I was before, but when we did the BMI calculations, I was embarrassed that I was considered obese, it was a slap in my face. So I decided to start going to the gym, and signed up for our company challenge. I got a personal trainer and I changed my eating habits. Am looking forward on how my results will turn out. Even if I don't win the challenge, I'll still be in better shape and so I can't really lose.”
- Rodrigo R. - Mechanic and Shift Leader in Arizona

“I am joining and supporting my fellow co-workers at First Fleet in getting healthy. I have a very active lifestyle and being healthy is most important to me and my family. I am looking forward to eating healthier, exercising and getting into shape, along with my goal of losing 20 pounds. I know this will provide me with an abundance of energy and a longer, happier and healthy future.”
- Ron K - Shop Supervisor in Arizona

"Losing a few pounds is something I have needed to do for a while now. The fitness challenge is a good excuse for me to stop procrastinating and work towards some goals I have set for myself. A few small changes such as giving up drinking soda and sugary soft drinks and eating smaller portions at meal time have already seemed to help shed a few pounds. I don't go to the gym and work out. So I try to incorporate exercise into my daily activities. All of us here in Tolleson are grateful for FirstFleet's concern regarding our personal fitness. And a little friendly competition is a great way to get motivated!”
- Matt C. - Shop Manager in Arizona

“After celebrating a recent Birthday, I decided to change my lifestyle so that I can regain some energy, sleep better, and have overall better health. My goal is to lose 30 pounds by exercising and eating better.”
- Shawn K - Fleet Manager in Arizona

Click on this link to see a picture a few of the participants that work with us in our Arizona office and shop.

What these individuals are doing right now is a motivation to others in their direct lives, and we hope it does inspire you at your respective locations to take on a similar challenge in your facility – and more importantly for your own health.

Please keep an eye on the tips and information we provide each week on these Wellness posts, as well as more information that is being placed on the Wellness Information page found here.

As always, we want to hear from YOU, those who want to improve their health and wellness. You can always post Comments on this blog or on our own Facebook page.

Start your own Wellness Challenge now!!

So What is My Next Step to Better Health???

Wellness Committee — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 21:27:00 GMT

With more and more participants taking part in the new 2013 Wellness Program, taking the Personal Health Assessment (My PHA) is just the first step towards good health. There is good news that you can also earn another $50 gift card by participating in a Self-Directed Program on the Blue Cross website. Blue Cross has designed a number of programs that take into account your time and needs to allow you to work through these programs online at your own pace. You get to be the coach and participant in these programs.

Click on the link here, and you will find more information on how you can take those next steps towards better health. Follow the instructions that lead you to the “MY DASHBOARD” link on the Blue Cross website.

We are excited to hear how your progress is coming after two months into the program. Feel free to Comment on this blog or on FirstFleet’s Facebook page.

Remember – the next step is easier once you start moving in the right direction!

Wellness Updates - On the Path to Success

Wellness Committee — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 19:30:00 GMT

We are excited to announce that we have received the number of participants that took the Personal Health Assessment in the first month of 2013. With a late push of introducing the Wellness Program and PHA’s to our associates, we are very pleased with the results thus far after one month of testing. We have seven facilities that have at least 10% of medical health participants that took the PHA:

Murfreesboro, TN	75%
Russellville, AR	30%
St. Louis, MO	27%
Maryland Heights, MO	20%
Bardstown, KY	13%
Middletown, NY	11%
Dandridge, TN	10%

Congratulations to our participants that have taken the assessment, as well as to the managers who have championed the efforts to get as many participants taking the PHA as possible. We need to keep up these efforts as we close February.

All in all, we will be providing over $4,000 in gift cards to all the January participants in the month of April (once per quarter). We will also be providing over $250 to five participants who have already completed a Self-Directed Course on the “onmytime Courses” page on the Blue Cross link.

Please contact someone at your local office if you have any questions about the Personal Health Assessment or click on the link here to find out how to access the assessment for your account.

Stay the Course!

Is My Sleep Really That Important to my Health???

Wellness Committee — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 21:30:00 GMT

With as much emphasis as we place on fitness activities and proper nutrition, we often forget one of the most important factors of our health - SLEEP!!! While what we eat and what we do each day is very important, sleep is a huge factor that affects our physical and mental wellness.

The National Sleep Foundation released a study in the Spring of 2012, where transportation professionals were polled in regards to their sleep habits. You can see the Poll here. In short, it states what many of you already know. Most of us are not getting enough adequate sleep. The lack of sleep affects us in so many ways and has a long-term negative effect on our overall wellness.

If you are interested in taking a 2-minute "Sleepiness Scale" online quiz, click here. The questions allow you to think about situations where you may find yourself feel yourself getting drowsy.

Here is list of tips from the National Sleep Foundation for all of us to adapt ito try and get a good night's sleep when your schedule allows for good sleep:

Go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day and avoid spending more time in bed than needed.
Use bright light to help manage your body clock. Avoid bright light in the evening and expose yourself to sunlight in the morning.
Only use your bedroom for sleep. Remove computers, televisions and other distractions.
Select a relaxing bedtime ritual, like a warm bath or listening to calm music.
Create an environment that is conducive to sleep that is quiet, dark and cool with a comfortable mattress and pillows.
Exercise regularly but avoid vigorous workouts close to bedtime.
If you can’t sleep, go into another room and do something relaxing until you feel tired.
If you are experiencing excessive snoring or “stop breathing” episodes in your sleep, contact your health care professional for a sleep apnea screening.

Now it is your turn to provide your tips to a healthy time of sleep for all of us to learn. Please "Comment" on this post or on our Facebook page to let all of us know what you do to help yourself have a good night's rest. We look forward to adding your comments to the post, as we care about your thoughts and advice to keep us ALL moving in the right direction.

Rest Well and Stay the Course!!

Next Steps in the Personal Health Assessment

Wellness Committee — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 22:00:00 GMT

Last week we posted the benefits to you and the company of our direction with the 2013 Wellness Program, with the primary benefit of a healthier, more productive life to you. Over the past week, many participants are reporting they are anxious to take the Personal Health Assessment on the Blue Cross Blue Shield website. That is great news, and we hope to hear more from you regarding your progress towards a healthier lifestyle!!

In order to simplify the process of taking the Personal Health Assessment, Blue Cross has provided you a link for a training video that outlines all steps in the process, beginning with the online assessment. You can find the link here. On this link, there are 8 brief videos that will take you through all of the steps of the assessment. Even if you have taken the Personal Health Assessment, these short videos will show you how to move forward with the next steps towards a healthier lifestyle.

A full set of Training Documents can be located here for your review.

As a note, the Murfreesboro office has started the year with its own version of The Biggest Loser Challenge. In a 16-week challenge, over 35% of the staff and leadership are taking on the challenge of losing weight. Our goal is to encourage each other to stay on the path to health during this Challenge. After two weeks into the Challenge, our team has lost a considerate amount of weight, and the battle is on to see who can stay-the-course to lose the most weight. We will keep you posted over time of the progress.

We have been contacted by other fleets who want to look at similar challenges and programs to live a healthier lifestyle. Encourage others at your facilities to start a program in the next few weeks. For any guidance, we have a large Wellness Team to guide you through the process of issuing programs.

Stay the course! It's worth it!

Our 2013 Wellness Program is “On the Move”!!!

Wellness Committee — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 23:30:00 GMT

So what does this mean for me, as a participant on the Medical Insurance Program??? Many folks are still asking “Why is FirstFleet doing a Wellness Program?” This is a GREAT question, and we want to answer any questions you might have. Here are a few of the many reasons:

First and foremost, healthier lifestyles provide the best chance to enjoy a long, productive and happy life with our family.
Costs of health care have risen steadily over the last several years.
Last year, the cost of FirstFleet’s medical plan exceeded $10 million. Over and above the weekly deduction from your paycheck, the Company contributes on average over $8,000 annually for each family covered by the plan.
Wellness Programs can help control costs.
Continued legislation changes, including the Affordable Care Act, has led to uncertainty to the impact of insurance costs.
The best way to control the increasing costs of health care is for each of us to take steps to become healthier or maintain our good health.

The Company provides incentives (found here) for you to get active in the wellness program. Initially in 2013 these will be in the form of cash incentives, and in future years in the form of preferred weekly rates for your medical coverage. Moreover, ultimately for each of us the real incentive is in being able to maintain an active healthy life.

So is there a reason I should not get started by taking the Personal Health Assessment??? I need to log into the Blue Cross Blue Shield site to get started on my way to learning to live a healthier life!! Once I log into the site, I simply click on the “Get Started” button on the home page to take my own assessment.

Please note that the Personal Health Assessment is strictly confidential.
(View Privacy Statement from Onlife Health.)