Keep New Year’s resolutions with help from the HAWC

  • Published
  • By Mark Wyatt
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  For many, a new year brings renewed vigor in achieving a healthier lifestyle. Fortunately for employees at Hanscom, it's easier than ever to maintain resolutions with the plethora of programs offered by the Health and Wellness Center (HAWC).

The HAWC can help Hanscom's Department of Defense civilian personnel attain their health and fitness goals through the wellness services they offer as part of the Civilian Health Promotion Services, an Air Force Material Command-wide program designed to improve civilians' health and well-being.

Civilians interested in participating in a CHPS program should begin by scheduling a Cardiac Screening with Deanne Casey, nurse coordinator and health educator for CHPS. Screenings include a quick finger stick for a Cardiac Risk Profile. A simple finger prick offers total cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose measurements. Blood pressure analysis and a check of height, weight and body mass index are also included in the screening.

Appointments for group and individual screenings with Ms. Casey are available from 7 to 10 a.m. on most weekdays. Earlier appointments are available upon request. Group or individual screenings can be held in a conference room and individual screenings can be administered at the Health and Wellness Center. Results are available within 10 minutes, and the appointment can be used as part of the three paid hours per week that DoD civilians are allotted for wellness and fitness.

The second step toward civilian wellness is to visit the Wellness Support Center website at www.afmcwellness.com to fill out a Health Risk Appraisal. After submitting the HRA, each participant will receive a wellness profile. This individualized feedback is tailored to help the individual to make informed decisions in a number of important wellness categories, as well as identify any potential health risks. The website uses an encoding process, ensuring that the information entered remains anonymous. This same site is also available to active duty personnel.

Those interested in a comprehensive health program may also try the Lighten Up program. The program runs for seven weeks and meets once a week. The next class begins Jan. 19 from 11 to 11:45 a.m. The content includes nutrition and weight management skills and is designed to help individuals make permanent, healthy lifestyle choices. To register, e-mail Ms. Casey at deanne.casey.ctr@hanscom.af.mil.

For more information on classes and programs or to schedule an appointment, call 781-377-8467.