SAN DIEGO, Aug. 20, 2008 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- American Specialty Health (ASH), a leading national health improvement organization, received six Healthcare Advertising Awards-two gold, two silver, and a bronze, plus a merit distinction-from Healthcare Marketing Report. The Healthcare Advertising Awards celebrated its 25th anniversary with a record number of entries, making it both the oldest and largest health care advertising awards competition.
A national panel of judges reviewed 4,400 advertising and marketing entries from various health care-related organizations. The entries were judged on creativity, quality, message effectiveness, consumer appeal, graphic design, and overall impact. Gold awards were given to 403 companies; 328 entries were awarded silver distinctions.
*ASH won a gold award for its Redefine Senior Moment(tm) and Healthy Aging is Hot(tm) posters, which were created to promote ASH's Silver&Fit(r) healthy aging program. The posters feature colorful and lively images of older adults participating in "age-defying" physical activities such as sky-diving and surfing. *Another gold award was given to ASH for its FitnessCoach(r) logo design. FitnessCoach.com is an innovative health improvement program that helps members take charge of their health through a variety of online tools. The logo features an eye-catching orange and white combination set upon a deep blue backdrop. In addition to the gold award, FitnessCoach.com earned a merit distinction for its online Flash classes, which teach members how to live healthier. *ASH received two silver awards for its eXtremeQUIT(r) and eXtremeLIVING(r) member education materials, created to give children and teens-and their parents-the tools they need to quit smoking or live healthier. With versions designed for children of different age levels, the materials are accompanied by pocket-sized journals, incentive brochures, and parent guidebooks. *A bronze distinction was awarded to ASH for its colorful and vibrant Health Plan Sales brochure.
"To be recognized by such an esteemed publication as Healthcare Marketing Report-and to have our work acknowledged in such a large pool of worthy competitors-is a true honor," said George DeVries, ASH CEO and chairman. "These awards only reinforce our commitment to producing creative, cutting-edge programs and materials for our members and clients."
About American Specialty Health
American Specialty Health Incorporated (ASH), a leading health improvement organization, provides specialty benefit programs, fitness programs, health coaching and incentives, Internet solutions, and worksite wellness programs to health plans, insurance carriers, employer groups, and trust funds nationwide.
Based in San Diego, ASH has over 600 employees and covers more than 13.4 million members in specialty benefit, fitness, and coaching programs. For more information, visit ASHCompanies.com or call 800.848.3555.