Washington, D.C.- In accordance with its commitment to keeping the "federal family" informed and healthy, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management has launched its HealthierFeds web site. The site offers information to help federal employees and retirees make healthy life style choices and manage their health care to obtain high-quality, cost-effective services when needed. It is also part of an effort to support President George W. Bush's goal of a healthier America.

During a White House Fitness Expo, President Bush discussed the importance of a healthy lifestyle. "Better health is an individual responsibility, and it is an important national goal...When it comes to your health, even little steps can make a big difference...This is an important message that we're sending to America. When America and Americans are healthier, our whole society benefits. And that's important to know. If you're interested in improving America, you can do so by taking care of your own body."

OPM Director Kay Coles James recently outlined her goals for the web site, including the guiding principles that have shaped her perspective for good health-care policy. "Federal employees are well educated and independent decision makers, fully capable of making wise health and prevention decisions. The HealthierFeds campaign places emphasis on informing federal employees and retirees on healthy living. It is well established that physical activity, nutrition, preventive screenings and healthy lifestyle choices can reduce demand on the health-care system. We want it to be a collaborative effort, and we are looking forward to employee feedback. It is a win-win situation for everyone."

OPM's HealthierFeds campaign is designed to meet James' vision for a responsive health-care system that lives up to these guiding principles and that meets the needs of the federal work force. In addition, the campaign identifies keys for a healthier America -- be physically active every day, eat a nutritious diet, get preventive screenings. It also provides information on care management and prevention strategies.

Federal employees and retirees and their families may access the web site and its helpful columns, handbooks and related materials by going directly to www.healthierfeds.opm.gov.