University Hospitals Expands Health Coaching Program

CLEVELAND – Patients in Northeast Ohio are positioned to make sustainable lifestyle changes and successfully reach health goals thanks to the expansion of the University Hospitals Health Coaching Program led by UH Connor Whole Health.

Many times, patients know what they need to change to live a healthier lifestyle. The challenge is often figuring out how to turn that knowledge into meaningful, sustainable action – that’s where health coaches come in. Credentialed experts use evidence-based therapies and lifestyle approaches to help patients achieve optimal health and healing.

“Health coaching puts the patient at the center of the process, with the patient choosing the health and wellness goals that are most important to them,” said lead whole health and well-being coach Crystal Evans. “Health coaches offer accountability through regular check-ins and partner with patients to explore options, overcome barriers, and find practical, sustainable ways to make those goals a reality. Goals could include improving stress resilience, increasing physical activity, or feeling better overall.”

University Hospitals and Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) have collaborated for the Health and Well-Being Coaching Certificate Program which is accredited by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching. It’s available exclusively to UH caregivers and employees.

UH currently has five full-time and three as-needed coaches working with patients, but dozens more caregivers are fully certified and ready to deploy as demand increases. Seventy UH caregivers have gone through the NEOMED program during the first four cohorts, and a fifth cohort is underway now.

“Until now, health coaching has been the missing link in supporting people to reach their health goals,” said Kristi Artz, MD, MS, Vice President of UH Connor Whole Health and the Christopher M. and Sara H. Chair in Integrative Health. “We want to provide patients with care that improves their healthspan, feeling good physically, mentally and spiritually for years to come. Working with a health coach helps patients achieve these health goals.”

Health coaches can see patients virtually or in person. The service is currently self-pay and health saving account (HSA) and flexible spending account (FSA) funds can be used toward appointments. Patients who are interested can call 216-358-9120 or visit this link for more information.

Crystal has partnered as a health coach with Tim from Kent, Ohio for years, helping him implement weight loss strategies and improve his mental health. You can see his success story here.