Air Force offers health coach program Published April 13, 2017 By 2nd Lt. Katherine Miranda 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- The Air Force is now actively testing how health coaches can help Airmen and their families reach and sustain their wellness goals. In conjunction with MHS GENESIS, the Department of Defense’s new Electronic Health Record's go-live in February, Fairchild launched the health coach program and now hosts the only on-site health coach in the Air Force. This position is meant to help Airmen and their families navigate five areas of wellness; physical activity, weight management, stress management, tobacco cessation and nutrition. “The client sets their own goals, and we tailor a plan to help them get there,” said Jessica Thomas, 92nd Medical Group health coach. “Clients have 20-30 minute appointments with me each week to track progress and discuss setbacks. We work to meet individuals where they are and make their goals obtainable.” For each of the five program areas the health coach program offers six to eight week programs that include one-on-one coaching, workbooks and resources. The health coach program is open to active duty, reserve, guard members and their family members 18 years and older. “Our goal is to help them get to the healthiest version of themselves by taking what seems like a big goal, and helping them navigate the process,” said Thomas.If the program is successful at Fairchild, the Air Force will look to expand the health coach program to all Air Force installations. Beneficiaries can be referred to a health coach by their primary care provider or simply walk into her office. The health coach office is open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is located in the 92nd Medical Group clinic.