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PARKERSBURG -- The importance of employment and career on an individual's health and wellness, as well as the impact of a high school diploma on earning potential, is the focus of a program aimed at helping people earn their GEDs.
Highmark Health Options West Virginia recently launched GEDWorks, an educational support program designed to help eligible members earn their General Educational Development credential at no cost. The program is available to qualifying HHO members throughout West Virginia, according to a release from Highmark Health Options.
Eligible members receive personalized support from a dedicated bilingual GEDWorks adviser, access to study materials and practice tests, and assistance preparing for and completing the four GED subject areas: science, social studies, language arts and mathematics.
"We intentionally focus on workforce development because employment goes a long way to improving someone's health," said Jason Landers, president, Highmark Health Options. "We recognize that health is influenced by more than medical care alone. Education can significantly impact employment opportunities, income potential, and overall well-being. By offering GEDWorks, we are investing in our members' futures, helping remove barriers to educational achievement and strengthening the state's workforce."
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2024 data shows the importance of education on career and income potential, the release says. As workers' educational attainment rose, their unemployment rates decreased and earnings increased. Workers aged 25 and older who had less education than a high school diploma had the highest unemployment rate (6.2%) and lowest median weekly earnings ($738). Earnings improved and unemployment rates decreased with each subsequent level of education completed.
Qualifying members must:
· Be a current HHO WV member and West Virginia resident.
· Be 17 years of age or older.
· Not already possess a high school diploma.
· Have access to a computer, tablet or smartphone with internet access.
· Be willing to dedicate at least three hours per week to studying.
To learn more, members can call 1-833-957-0020.