Amazing PACE Program: An analysis of the impact of increased clergy physical activity on clergy health

The Insurance Board of the Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church confirms a dramatic rise in medical claims due to poor clergy health. The Board's goals were to increase the health status of the clergy and to decrease the medical claims costs. The Board added a wellness component to the insurance program. Researchers analyzed year 1 evaluation data of the “Amazing PACE” program. The pilot evaluation plan was used as a basis to implement needed improvements to the process and impact evaluation plans for future utilization of the program.

Over 300 individuals participated with 72 complete pre/post records at the end of the 12 month study period. Participants received a pedometer and completed a health survey which included height, weight, BMI, blood pressure and items about present activity levels. Following one year of implementation, participants' blood cholesterol, blood pressure, blood glucose and weight data was collected.

Medical claims data was maintained on participants in the program. Comparison of data for those that wore a pedometer for >100 days and <100 days showed an average savings of $441 and $187 respectively. After 12 months of program implementation significant reduction in blood pressure, blood cholesterol and self-reported improvements in sleep patterns, energy levels and nutrition were noted.