Courtney McDade, director of Public Affairs Programs at Independence Blue Cross (IBX), and Dr. Dario LaRocca, IBX medical director, recently appeared on Dr. Marianne Ritchie’s radio show, “Your Radio Doctor,” the region’s only medical radio program. The discussion centered on the health and wellness benefits of volunteering.
Dr. LaRocca noted a 2020 UK study that found increased happiness and better mental health in people who volunteered regularly. He also pointed out that volunteering can help reduce stress, which can lower the risks of heart disease and depression. Volunteering not only improves mental health, but also has tangible physical benefits, he said, such as healthier cholesterol levels and reduced blood pressure.
McDade described how the Blue Crew, IBX’s corporate volunteer program, aligns with IBX’s mission to enhance the health and wellbeing of the communities it serves. She highlighted IBX’s commitment to community service through the Blue Crew, which has partnered with more than 100 nonprofits over the past two decades. Last year, IBX employees dedicated over 6,200 hours to 180 volunteer projects in the Philadelphia area.
Your Radio Doctor is broadcast on Saturdays from 5-6 p.m. on 1210 WPHT. Shows can also be listened to via major podcast platforms. Dr. Ritchie is a gastroenterologist who has practiced in the Philadelphia region for over 30 years at hospitals including Lankenau, Temple University and Jefferson University.
