Individuals, families, businesses and governments are all struggling to find practical and sustainable solutions that will improve access to quality health care while managing rapidly growing costs.  And as the debate continues over how to best modernize our nation’s health care system, the need for innovation and collaborative change only intensifies.

 

That is why in this issue of hub, we are delighted to introduce our 2009 Apex Award winners.  With the awards program now in its sixth year, we continue to recognize companies that are persevering through these difficult times and delivering solutions for their employees that make care more effective, accessible and affordable, when it is needed more than ever.

 

This year, more than 30 companies collectively representing nearly two million employees were nominated for an Apex Award.  This issue of hub profiles the 10 winners that were selected by an independent judging panel, and each shares a uniquely innovative story.  From enabling a visit with a doctor who sits hundreds of miles away to designing creative wellness programs that change employees’ behaviors and health outcomes, these winners’ stories remind us that positive change can happen through hard work and collaboration.

 

We enjoy celebrating the Apex Award winners each year and are already anticipating the great nominations in 2010 (the submission process will begin early next year!).

 

 

- Jessica Kostner, Managing Editor