VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System (VAPHS) is on the MOVE! as it relates to a state of art MOVEmployee! program.

The MOVE! Coordinator for the 3 Medical Centers that comprise VAPHS, has developed and implemented an employee lifestyle program , uniquely designed to fit any employee's schedule.  It is a 12-week, theme centered program, is offered over OUTLOOK for the convenience of those involved. Short informational and motivational messages are sent out frequently by e-mail to program participants, who look forward to reading their message as they sign on to their computers.  Doing this via e-mail maximizes employee involvement while minimizing the impact on patient care. 

Support from management resulted in  advertising  "Are you the biggest loser at your facility?" The prize was a canteen voucher for the individual who loses the most weight at his or her division. Program restrictions are strictly adhered to as it relates to prize eligibility. An individual must weigh in weekly, at an established day/time/site with a registered dietitian, 11 of 12 weeks, with weeks one and twelve being mandatory. Employees unable to meet weigh-in requirements, while considered prize ineligible, are participating with the goal of improved well being. Approximately 250 employees of VAPHS have enrolled in the program.

The program partnered with the canteen service so that healthy meals and healthy side dishes are now a daily menu option at all 3 sites. The previously named "Wise up" meal has been renamed in VAPHS; "Wise up and MOVE!" meal, with more healthy selections.