We have noted in past posts on this blog how companies that commit themselves to building and supporting diversity in their workforce reap real rewards in the competitive marketplace. Such companies also often rate highly as great places to work, for along with a commitment to diversity comes a commitment to support every employee as a distinct individual with unique needs and concerns.
So maybe it should come as no surprise that six of the companies on DiversityInc's first-ever Top 10 Regional Companies list are health insurers, including Philadelphia-based Independence Blue Cross and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey.
Why no surprise? Because health care is a business that calls for understanding the needs and concerns of individuals from all walks of life. While health insurers are often a target for popular ire, they must deal with people with a wide variety of conditions, health issues, and care requirements, including diseases like sickle cell anemia that strike specific populations. For a well run health insurer, having a diverse workforce that is familiar with those various issues is a business necessity.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans in particular take great pains to involve themselves deeply in their communities because of their heritage as not-for-profit alliances of hospitals and doctors formed to give patients low-cost protection in case of illness or hospitalization. While some have become for-profit companies, many, including Independence Blue Cross, remain non-profit organizations committed to their social missions. Both of the regional Blues on this list offer special plans for low-income families and partner with government and charitable organizations to extend coverage to the poor and uninsured. (All six of the health insurers on the DiversityInc list are Blue Cross Blue Shield Association members.)
The value these organizations showcase is the importance of community. There was a time when even large companies had roots in a particular place and invested themselves in their communities success. That is less the case today, but when it comes to the local Blues, that spirit lives on in workforces, programs and partnerships that reflect the makeup of the communities they serve.
Are you part of the Blue? Let me know in the comments.
By Sandy Smith
Sandy Smith is a veteran freelance writer, editor and public relations professional who lives in Philadelphia. Besides blogging for PhillyJobs.com, he has written for numerous publications and websites, would be happy to do your resume, and is himself actively seeking career opportunities on Beyond.com. Check out his LinkedIn profile and read his other posts on PhillyJobsBlog.com.
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