CMH wants to get more people walking
CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield helps fund program

Losing weight and getting fit can be as easy as putting one foot in front of the other. And Calvert Memorial Hospital hopes to convince more residents to try just that with its new program, "Calvert County Walks."

The program, funded by a $40,000 grant from CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, is just one of the ways CMH is targeting obesity among local residents. Recent estimates show that 58 percent or almost 36,000 Calvert adults are overweight.

"Obesity is the most far reaching health issue in Calvert County," said Barbara Polak, director of ambulatory care services at CMH. “It affects the most people and has a long-term health impact.”

Polak praised CareFirst for funding community efforts to address this issue. "I commend them," she said. "They are certainly leading the pack."

Earlier this month, the health insurer awarded 12 grants totaling $489,000 to non-profit organizations in Maryland, Delaware and DC. Calvert Memorial was chosen because of its long track record in prevention and this comprehensive proposal.

The grants are part of Shape Up … Live Well, a community initiative of CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, to prevent obesity and its associated health risks through innovative programs that promote physical activity and or a healthy lifestyle.

"Everyone knows they should exercise," said Polak, "but our lives are so busy. Walking is something you can do anytime, anywhere."

"Calvert County Walks" is a yearlong effort to build community wide interest in walking. The program, which will begin in the fall, will enroll 500 local residents. CMH will provide education and support for the participants. The free classes will offer walking tips, nutrition, motivation and more. "Our goal is to help the walkers plan for success," said Polak.

The program will specifically target low-income residents and those who are uninsured. "This group," she said, "has many medical issues – such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease – that revolve around obesity." However, anyone over 16 can sign up.

Additionally, CMH along with the College of Southern Maryland will develop and distribute a guide of safe walking trails. In the spring, the hospital will sponsor four community walks. "Our goal is to boost interest in walking," said Polak. "It’s easy, it’s fun and it brings great health benefits."

She said they also want to encourage local business involvement in the community events. "There’s a lot local companies can do," she said. "Through advertising the program and providing water, snacks and prizes."

If you’re interested in learning more about "Calvert County Walks" or in supporting the program, please call Barbara Polak at 410-535-8216 or email inquiries to BPolak@cmhlink.org.