Repeat Winner: State of Arizona Named Healthiest Employer 

For the second year in a row, the State of Arizona has been named a Healthiest Employer by the Phoenix Business Journal, earning the distinction based on the outcomes of the Health Impact Program and other initiatives. 

Arizona won in the Extra Large Category of employers across the state. The Healthiest Employers awards recognize organizations that are committed to creating a healthy workplace. 

In all, the state of Arizona employs 71,000 people at more than 130 agencies and three state universities. Of those, more than 26,000 people are enrolled in the Health Impact Program, a platform for employees and dependents to access health education, get inspiration, track goals and learn about preventive care.

The reported health and productivity results have been promising:

• 81% of users decreased their blood pressure or maintained a healthy blood pressure
• 68% of users report feeling more energetic
• 67% of users report feeling more productive at work because of the HIP program
• 64% of users reported increased effectiveness at work
• 61% of users decreased their Body Mass Index or maintained a healthy BMI
• 57% report taking fewer sick days

Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry employee Felix Flores said HIP has helped him after his doctor told him that he had high cholesterol. “I started exercising and eating healthy. It was not easy, but small changes were made. Now, I have it under control without medication. The HIP program is very helpful in maintaining my habits. Everything is good information, such as the challenges and healthy food tips.”

Department of Economic Security employee Bobby McGee also shared positive outcomes from her participation in HIP, for both physical and mental health. “I have become more aware and peaceful by practicing the things I have learned while using HIP. I have lost 6 pounds, increased my daily steps, I practice being in the moment more, decreased my screen time, have better eating habits, and best of all, I’m getting more sleep!”

Amanda Accatino, Arizona’s well-being and employee assistance manager for the Arizona Department of Administration, has led the HIP program for 10 years and said it has grown thanks to great communication efforts among wellness liaisons and leaders throughout the state enterprise. 

“Agencies are embracing the program as a core part of their employee wellness strategy. They want to create custom HIP activities to boost their engagement goals,” she said. “The Benefit Services Division always strives to make a measurable impact on wellness, maximizing every resource we have to support employees.”

Winning the Phoenix Business Journal award puts Arizona automatically in the running to be recognized among the Healthiest 100 Workplaces in America by Springbuk’s nationwide Healthiest Employers program. For the national contest, Arizona ranked 100 in 2023 and 68th in 2024. The awards program recognizes people-first organizations that prioritize the well-being of their employees. 

Contact: Hannah Moulton Belec, ADOA
[email protected]
480-815-9483