Two preeminent local organizations have joined forces to further enhance the health, wellness and fitness of local residents. Plainfield Parks & Recreation and Indiana University Health West Hospital announced the launch of new multi-year relationship in January, 2012, making the hospital the official healthcare partner of department, including the Plainfield Recreation and Aquatic Center.

“Plainfield Parks & Recreation has world-class expertise in community fitness, recreation facilities and programming. IU Health West provides preeminent expertise in clinical care, wellness and preventive medicine. By collaborating, we create a natural partnership that strengthens both organizations while contributing to a stronger, healthier community,” says IU Health West President and CEO, Matt Bailey.

Plainfield Parks & Recreation Director, Clay Chafin, says the partnership raises the bar for both organizations. “We're excited to see our relationship evolve and grow, whether it's free health and wellness education presented by IU Health West physicians or healthier snack bar options guided by one of the hospital's registered dieticians. We'll continue all of the outstanding fitness and sports programs the community has come to expect from us, while adding new opportunities, including seminars about wellness and disease or injury prevention, health screenings and new events.”

The partnership will create an avenue for hospital patients graduating from programs such as physical therapy or cardiovascular rehabilitation to access a high quality, safe fitness environment.

Chafin explains, “In the months ahead, we anticipate IU Health West opening a permanent on-site presence at the Aquatic Center, making this a true wellness hub for Plainfield residents, as well as hospital employees and patients. We think the possibilities are truly limitless.”

The partnership will also support the department's Beneficent Fund, which provides membership opportunities for individuals and families who might not otherwise be able to afford it.

“IU Health West and IU Health are committed to supporting strategies to prevent disease and improve overall health in the communities we serve. Combining that expertise-----for example, conducting a simple blood screen called an “A1C” to help identify a person who is pre-diabetic----with a state-of-the-art facility where that pre-diabetic patient can begin walking or swimming to lose weight---is a recipe for a great marriage,” Bailey says.