In this episode of Healthy Chats, Amy speaks with Pam Kehaly, President and CEO of Blue Cross® Blue Shield® of Arizona, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Amy and Pam discuss the disturbing spike in depression and anxiety adults and teens are experiencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic — and how HealthCorps and BCBSAZ are addressing it. Both agree that part of being mentally healthy is to be physically healthy. Amy and Pam share personal insights and organizational resources to combat the pandemic’s toll on mental health, including HealthCorps’ #Walktober and #Stride4Students step challenges for students and adults.
Through Pam’s leadership, the 2,500 BCBSAZ employees work to inspire health across their state, by providing support and resources to help residents across their state achieve optimal health. Part of that commitment is sponsorship of HealthCorps in multiple Phoenix schools.
Pam’s engagement in youth health and wellness extends beyond her role as CEO of BCBSAZ; she also volunteers as a member of HealthCorps’ Board of Directors.
HealthCorps has been part of the Phoenix community for several years and currently works in the following schools — Academy of Math & Science South Mountain, North High School, Phoenix Elementary School District #1, and Pinnacle Peak Preparatory. Learn more about HealthCorps, its programs and online resources here (www.healthcorps.org).