Premera Blue Cross

"This company is living their mission when it comes to creating healthy employees," says one appreciative associate at this Mountlake Terrace-based health insurance provider. As it aims to improve the health care industry by promoting healthier lifestyles and preventative wellness among its members, it also encourages its employees to eat well, exercise and lose weight. The food choices on campus are wholesome ones, and the company has even invited local organic farmers to come sell their produce there. There are chat sites and support groups for those trying to change bad habits. And programs such as "Know Your Numbers" provide on-site mammograms and biometric testing. Premera, another employee says, is a "local company trying to do right by their customers in tough times. It also tries to do right by their employees...in this day and age, you can't ask for more."

Other top finalists*

• Campbell Soup
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• Everett Clinic
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• Providence Regional Medical Center Everett
• Snohomish County PUD
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*Listed in alphabetical order