Independence Health System Recognized for Employee Wellness

Butler, PA, July 9, 2025 - Independence Health System has once again been recognized by the National Association for Business Resources (NABR) as a leader in workplace wellness through its nationally recognized Best and Brightest in Wellness program. This honor is awarded to companies that demonstrate a commitment to prioritizing employee well-being by offering innovative health initiatives, comprehensive benefits, and fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes wellness.

Through collaboration efforts of the organization’s Human Resources Department and the Well-Being Center, which jointly oversee the wellness program, Independence Health System has earned this distinction for the ninth consecutive year. Excela Health first received this recognition in 2017 and maintained its commitment to the program’s wellness standards throughout the merger with Butler Health System. In this latest round of recognition, Independence Health System, which includes Butler Memorial, Clarion, Frick, Latrobe and Westmoreland hospitals, is one of just 51 organizations across various industries to be honored.

“At Independence Health System, we view employee well-being as essential to delivering expert care, here, said Patrick Martin, Manager of the Well-Being Center. “Our wellness programs are thoughtfully designed to support every dimension of employees’ health, whether physical, emotional, mental, social, or financial. We remain committed to evolving these resources to meet the changing needs of our workforce and the communities we serve.”

Winning companies are evaluated across several key categories, administered by a leading wellness research firm, including organizational culture, workplace environment, employee feedback, financial well-being, leadership commitment, and support for physical and mental health. Each submission is evaluated using both quantitative and qualitative data. Surveys are scored on a point-based system that is designed to benchmark and enhance the effectiveness of wellness programs. 

Jennifer Kluge, President and CEO of NABR, stated, “Winning the Best and Brightest in Wellness award is a testament to the organizations commitment to creating a supportive and healthy workplace culture. These companies are setting a high standard for wellness initiatives and truly making a positive impact on their employees' lives."

The 2025 Nation’s Best and Brightest in Wellness winners will be celebrated at the National Best and Brightest Executive Summit in 2026 and also featured in the All-Winners Edition of Corp! Magazine. Learn more about Independence Health System’s award-winning programs at www.independence.health.

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About Independence Health System

Nationally recognized for quality care, Independence Health System comprises Butler Memorial, Clarion, Frick, Latrobe and Westmoreland Hospitals with a combined bed count of 925. With more than 1,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and 7,300 employees, the System is the third largest in western Pennsylvania serving a population base of 750,000 in a footprint spanning more than 10 counties. 

The System includes tertiary programs rated among America’s best for cardiac care and surgery, earning accolades from a number of prestigious outlets and organizations. Locally owned and locally controlled, Independence Health System offers its patients low-cost, high-quality care across the care spectrum in such specialties as cardiology, cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, minimally invasive and robotic surgery, women’s health and obstetrics, emergency medicine, behavioral health and primary care. Its network of outpatient centers sees more than 1.2 million visits annually. The homecare division further supports patients at all stages of life with home health and hospice services. Learn more at www.independence.health

About the National Association for Business Resources 

The Best and Brightest in Wellness, Best and Brightest Companies to Work For, Best and Brightest CEOs and Leadership Teams in the Nation are programs of the National Association for Business Resources, and are presented in several markets: Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Miami, Milwaukee, Nashville, New England, New York, Northern California, Pacific Northwest, Southern California, West Michigan and Nationally. Nominations are now being accepted for all programs. Visit https://nationalbiz.org/ to obtain an application.