Real Appeal is an online healthy lifestyle program designed to help individuals make sustainable changes for a healthier body and lifestyle. It leverages weight-loss research studies to provide support throughout every stage of weight management. The program is customized to individual needs and goals, offering a blend of online coaching, fitness resources, and tools to facilitate lasting change.
Accessibility and Eligibility
Real Appeal is often available at no additional cost to eligible members of certain health plans. For instance, High Option Compass Rose Health Plan members, their covered spouses, and dependents aged 18 or over with a BMI of 23 or higher may be eligible, subject to specific criteria. Similarly, full and part-time employees on specific City health plans with a BMI of 23 or higher may also qualify.
As part of Wellness+ initiatives, Real Appeal, in partnership with UMR Rally Coach, may be added to health plans, such as effective January 1, 2025. Eligibility often requires being a GHB participant in specific medical plans. To confirm eligibility and enrollment details, it is best to refer to the specific terms of your health plan or contact the Real Appeal support center.
How to Enroll
To enroll in Real Appeal, prospective participants are generally directed to the Real Appeal member site where they can select "Enroll Now." During the account creation process, individuals are typically prompted to enter their UMR member ID number and group number. For those who encounter issues during enrollment, a dedicated answer center is available at 1-844-924-7325 (REAL).
Key Components of the Real Appeal Program
Online Coaching
A cornerstone of the Real Appeal program is the weekly online group coaching sessions, led by a Transformation Coach. These coaches provide guidance and support throughout the year, helping participants stay accountable and meet their wellness goals. Participants can meet with coaches weekly and reach out for additional support as needed.
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Real Appeal Rally Coach is structured as a highly interactive weekly internet show, incorporating videos and live online coaching to help individuals make small, manageable behavior changes week by week.
Fitness on Demand
Real Appeal offers access to on-demand workouts, eliminating the need for expensive gym memberships or extravagant equipment. This feature allows participants to engage in fitness activities using their preferred online device, promoting accessibility and convenience.
Success Kit
All Real Appeal Programs include a Success Kit that contains essential tools to aid in the weight loss journey. The kit typically includes a body weight scale, an electronic food scale, and a balanced portion plate. These tools help participants monitor their progress and make informed decisions about their food intake.
The Success Kit is usually sent to participants after they attend their first live session with their coach, with delivery typically taking 7-10 business days. Each member is eligible to receive one kit.
Mobile App
Real Appeal offers a "Rally Coaching" mobile app, available for download on Apple and Android devices. The app provides access to all online features, allowing participants to engage with the program on the go.
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Real-Life Success Stories
Real Appeal showcases numerous success stories from individuals who have achieved significant health improvements through the program. These stories serve as inspiration and demonstrate the potential impact of Real Appeal on participants' lives:
- Outrunning Diabetes: Crystal, who was pre-diabetic and struggling with mobility, found the motivation to complete multiple half marathons through Real Appeal.
- Riding Healthier: Demond, whose unhealthy eating habits and lack of exercise were impacting his work, adopted healthy habits and improved his overall well-being with the program.
- Succeeding Together: Brian and Julie, who were struggling with portion control and high blood pressure, made positive changes together and lost a combined total of 160 pounds.
Program Design and Philosophy
Real Appeal emphasizes the importance of small, manageable changes that lead to a healthier body and lifestyle. The program is designed to support participants through every stage of weight management, providing the tools and resources needed to achieve lasting results.
The program acknowledges that there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to healthy living. Participants are encouraged to set personalized goals based on their individual aspirations and receive support from their coach to overcome obstacles. Real Appeal also offers easy recipes that suit various lifestyles, promoting flexibility and sustainability.
Scientific Basis
Researchers have demonstrated that structured weight-loss and lifestyle-change programs can accomplish critical employee and population health goals. These include:
- Improving overall health outcomes for individuals who are overweight and obese but do not yet have prediabetes or diabetes.
- Reducing the progression to diabetes in those who have prediabetes.
Real Appeal leverages these research findings to design a program that effectively supports individuals in achieving their weight management goals.
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Important Considerations
The Real Appeal program is educational and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. It is essential to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and treatment.
Insurance coverage for the Real Appeal program is typically provided by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or its affiliates. The program, including the Success Kit, is often covered at 100% for eligible UnitedHealthcare health plan members, with no deductibles or co-payments. While claims may be processed by the insurance company, there is generally no additional cost to participants.