The Heart of Health: Meet the Staff of Purdue University’s Center for Healthy Living
Purdue University prides itself on fostering a vibrant and healthy workforce, recognizing that the strength of its community is directly tied to the well-being of its employees and their families. At the forefront of this initiative is the Center for Healthy Living (CHL), where a dedicated team of professionals works tirelessly to provide essential health resources, information, and treatment. This article delves into the remarkable staff members of the CHL, their diverse roles, and the comprehensive services they offer to enhance the health and wellness of the Purdue community.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Health
Managed by One to One Health (OTO), the Center for Healthy Living operates across three locations—West Lafayette, Hammond, and Fort Wayne—employing over 30 skilled individuals. This multidisciplinary team is committed to delivering both in-person and virtual services that align with the five pillars of the Healthy Boiler Program: behavioral health, financial wellness, physical health, social wellness, and work-life integration.
Candace Shaffer, associate vice president of benefits and payroll in Human Resources, emphasizes the importance of the Healthy Boiler Program as a foundation for overall well-being. She notes, “Each year, our benefits team collaborates with the CHL and OTO teams to enhance and expand the programs and services available to better serve the needs of our faculty and staff.”
A Patient-Centered Approach
The CHL staff exemplifies a patient-centered approach in every aspect of their work. From the friendly front desk personnel who assist with scheduling appointments to the compassionate medical assistants and providers, each team member plays a vital role in ensuring a positive experience for patients.
The team includes health coaches who create personalized physical activity and nutrition plans, dieticians who develop tailored meal strategies, behavioral therapists offering one-on-one counseling, clinical pharmacists guiding patients through medication management, and a health care navigator who helps employees maximize their health plan benefits. This collaborative effort ensures that every patient receives comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs.
Impressive Impact and Reach
Over the past year, the CHL staff has made a significant impact on the Purdue community, serving 6,075 patients through an impressive 21,337 appointments. These appointments range from primary care services, such as annual physicals and cholesterol screenings, to specialized services like health coaching for chronic conditions and medication therapy management.
Additionally, the CHL Telehealth Program has expanded access to care, offering 24/7 consultations via text, call, and video chat. This initiative facilitated 4,932 appointments in the past year, ensuring that employees can receive timely medical advice and treatment regardless of their location.
Engaging Wellness Programs
Beyond individual care, the CHL hosts a variety of wellness programs designed to promote overall health and well-being. Monthly recipe clubs, group coaching opportunities, and lifestyle programs are just a few examples of the engaging activities available to the Purdue community. Each year, the center offers approximately 25 wellness programs and 20 webinars covering topics such as mindfulness, strength training, and chronic illness management.
Shaffer highlights the importance of these programs, stating, “The staff, programs, and services available at the CHL locations help us exponentially in our continuous efforts to prioritize the overall health and wellness of the Purdue population.”
Collaborative Partnerships for Enhanced Care
The CHL’s commitment to excellence is further strengthened by its partnerships with Purdue’s College of Pharmacy and College of Nursing. These collaborations allow clinical faculty members to serve as nurse practitioners and pharmacists at the West Lafayette CHL, enriching the quality of care provided. Additionally, Purdue students have the opportunity to join the team as pharmacy fellows, gaining valuable experience while contributing to the health of their peers.
Community Engagement and Events
The CHL staff is dedicated to fostering community engagement through various events throughout the year. Open houses, like the one held in September, provide campus community members with the opportunity to tour the facilities, meet providers, and learn more about available services.
The CHL also recently launched its annual flu shot campaign, offering multiple opportunities for faculty and staff to receive vaccinations through on-campus and drive-through events. These initiatives not only promote health but also strengthen the sense of community within Purdue.
Continuous Growth and Development
The commitment to health and wellness extends beyond patient care; CHL staff members are also pursuing their professional development. Many employees at the West Lafayette and Hammond locations have recently earned higher education degrees and certifications, while others have published works focused on mental health and relaxation techniques. This dedication to continuous growth ensures that the CHL remains at the forefront of health care innovation.
Conclusion: A Commitment to Wellness
At the Center for Healthy Living, the entire Purdue family can access quality, personalized care delivered by a team of highly skilled professionals. Each staff member brings a friendly face, a listening ear, and a genuine desire to help patients improve their overall health and wellness. As the CHL continues to expand its services and enhance its programs, it remains a cornerstone of support for the health and well-being of Purdue University’s employees and their families.