Healthcare news November 2017
Westchester County
HealthcareNewsMagazine.com
Where to Volunteer this Holiday Season: Soup Kitchens & more
Caregiving Around the
Clock
Boomers &Beyond November 2017
Westchester County
Included in every issue:
Boomers & Beyond FREE 6-MONTH SUBSCRIPTION
Register at HealthcareNewsMagazine.com
Healthcare Newspaper 1 Ardmore Street New Windsor NY 12553
PRESORT STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT 7246 PHILADELPHIA, PA 191
PAGE 2
November, 2017
Healthcare News - Westchester
PAGE 3
Healthcare News - Westchester November, 2017
Business Card Directory Angela DeAngellis President—Founder Info@Angelfacespa.com A mind-body-spirit approach to health and healing.
Somesh N. Kaushik, ND, BAMS, MPH, E-RYT 500
angelfacespa.com 322 Underhill Avenue Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
914-245-1084
Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Physician
Angelface Day Spa Excellence in Esthetics
Yellow Monkey Village 792 Route 35 Cross River, NY 10518
914-875-9088 clinic (M. T, W) 646-670-6725 cell DrKaushik@DrKaushik.com www.DrKaushik.com
We offer a wide range of services for small businesses including: angelfacespa.com Database/Record Management
• Email Marketing/Management • Internet Research • Organizational & Marketing Support • Word Processing
browerandrussointeriordesign.com 914.946.5818
Renee DeVincenzo
Angelface Day Spa info@mdracs.com 845 | 784 | 2020 www.mdracs.com
Outsourced Administrator
Reiki Master Teacher-RMA Recreational Therapist Intuitive Reader Crystal Worker
www.wendyosoria.wix.com/spiritvida Email: SpiritVida7@gmail.com
SpiritVida Wendy Osoria
EMPOWER YOUR SPIRIT
203-872-SEEK (7335)
Professional Head Lice Removal Service Good Riddance!
www.thelicechicks.com (914) 302-2927 fb.com/thelicechicks 135 E. Main St. (2nd Floor) Jefferson Valley, NY 10535
WANTED: Your Business Card Please call Nancy Sorbella at 845-534-7500 Ext. 219 for more information.
PAGE 4
November, 2017
What is a pancreas? The pancreas is a gland, about six inches long, located deep in the abdomen, behind the stomach. It produces enzymes that help with digestion and secretes hormones that control the levels of sugar in the blood.
What is cancer? Cancer is a mutated group of cells in the body that grows and divides in an uncontrolled manner. Cancer cells sometimes spread from the original cancer site to form tumors in other parts of the body. Pancreatic cancer begins when abnormal cells within the pancreas grow out of control and form a tumor.
What are the symptoms of pancreatic cancer? Pancreatic cancer may cause only vague, unexplained symptoms. Pain (usually in the abdomen or back), weight loss, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and/or eyes) with or without itching, loss of appetite, nausea, changes in stool, pancreatitis and recent-onset diabetes are symptoms that may indicate pancreatic cancer. If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, we urge you to speak to your doctor immediately and reference pancreatic cancer.
Healthcare News - Westchester
How is pancreatic cancer diagnosed? A pancreatic tumor can only be seen on an imaging study such as a computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or endoscopic ultrasound (EUS).
How is pancreatic cancer classified? Pancreatic tumors are classified into two groups by the type of cell in which they start – exocrine and neuroendocrine (endocrine) tumors. More than 95 percent of pancreatic cancers are classified as exocrine tumors. Additionally, the doctor will describe the extent of cancer in the body through staging. Stage is a measure of how far the cancer has grown, using size of the tumor, lymph node involvement and locations to which it has spread. Stages range from I to IV, with stage I describing the earliest form of cancer.
What treatments are available for pancreatic cancer? Treatment of pancreatic cancer depends on the stage of the disease and the patient’s general health. Patients may be treated with standard (approved) treatments or may participate in clinical trials. Standard treatments include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Clinical trials investigate new treatments for pancreatic cancer.
The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network strongly recommends clinical trials at diagnosis and during every treatment decision.
How many people get pancreatic cancer each year? Approximately 53,670 Americans are expected to be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the United States in 2017. Pancreatic cancer is the ninth most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and the 11th most commonly diagnosed in men in the United States.
Why is pancreatic cancer difficult to detect early? The pancreas is located deep in the abdomen, so it is difficult for a doctor to see or feel the tumor during a physical exam. Additionally, symptoms of pancreatic cancer are not always obvious and usually develop gradually. If a person has symptoms that suggest pancreatic cancer, a variety of tests may be performed to make an accurate diagnosis. However, there is no standard diagnostic test for pancreatic cancer, which further complicates the diagnostic process. For more information about pancreatic cancer, visit www.pancan.org
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
Many Years of Experience Protecting the Legal Interests of the Elderly & Special Needs Populations Advising Families about:
• • • • • • • • •
Medicaid Asset Protection Planning Estate Planning & Administration Special Needs Home Care Long Term Care Health Care Proxies Powers of Attorney Guardianships See more information on page 12
Client Testimonials You came to our aid during the most stressful time of life for my family. You are like a guardian angel to us - with every task you gave us 110 percent of your efforts and you have resolved many issues for us, in both financial and legal matters. We have known you for over eight years and you have always demonstrated fairness and good judgment. In addition, you have provided invaluable comfort, friendship and legal guidance for my family and we are grateful for your services. We look forward to continue to work with you and your firm. – Beatrice Y.
Navigating all the overwhelming details and complexities in my mother's case was handled with the utmost efficiency and sensitivity. The expense and endless sharing of information and paperwork resulted in an outcome that is totally beneficial to my mother. -Arlene L.
Westchester Financial Center 50 Main Street, Suite #1000 White Plains, NY 10606 Email: Info@ejrosenlaw.com
Tel: (914) 816-2900 www.ejrosenlaw.com
Attorney advertising • Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome
ELDER LAW • TRUSTS & ESTATES • TAX ADVOCACY • MEDIATION • EMPLOYMENT LAW
PAGE 6
November, 2017
OUR VIEW
ADVERTISER INDEX Company
Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run
Page
19
Business Card Directory
3
27
ColumbiaDoctors
Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers
21
MedWise
13
Keystone Financial Services
24
MVP Health Care
28
Resource Directory
26
Rob’s Poultry Supplies & Chicks
7
Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, PC
5,12
Simone Development Companies The Wartburg
Healthcare news
Westchester County Medical Society
Healthcare News - Westchester
2
25
22, 23
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@HealthcareNewspaper.com
By Nancy Sorbella
GENERAL MANAGER
It is beyond comprehension that another month has passed and brought us unimaginable global challenges and tragedies. What we have been taking away from these disasters is the incredible way in which neighbors and strangers have joined together to help each other, lift each other up physically and metaphorically, and to be part of the larger restoration effort for the community and the human spirit. In the wake of unhealthiness this generosity and kindness will ultimately lead to healthier lives; physically and emotionally. As a local healthcare resource we are participating in the relief efforts through our parent company, Belsito Communications. We are collection donations of emergency supplies at our corporate office at 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY from now though 5pm on October 16th. A complete list of supplies is on our facebook page for Belsito Communications, Inc. or you may call us at 845-534-7500 for more information. In November, we focus on gratitude for all that we have in our lives, particularly as Thanksgiving approaches, and how we can share our gifts through volunteering, engaging and sharing our lives with others. That human interaction is truly the greatest gift, one that can truly be harvested by us all and nurtured throughout the year. We encourage all of our readers to look around find a neighbor, stranger, friend, acquaintance and reconnect, be present and find your common thread. We know the joy you will reap will help you when our world view is dim and when those around us suffer. Take that first step and lead by example. Share your story with us and we will include it in upcoming issues as part of our commitment to healthy inspiration. Contact us at info@healthcarenewspaper.com.
Visit Westchester Healthcare News on Facebook to get updates on local health and wellness
PUBLISHER
Joseph P. Belsito Joe@belsito.com
INSIDE
••• GENERAL MANAGER
Nancy Sorbella
Nancy@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
••• MARKETING DIRECTOR
NEW! Business Card Directory
Gregory W. Buff
Greg@belsito.com
••• MARKETING CONSULTANT
Anthony Mairo
Page 3
••• MANAGING EDITOR
Next Month in Healthcare News
Yankees Pitcher David Robertson Aims to strike out Pancreatic Cancer
Maureen Rafferty Linell
Giving the Gift of Health Spa Treatments, Fitness Laser treatments, Healthy Eating
Westchester Medical Center Health Network Celebrates Ambulatory Care Pavilion construction milestone
Anthony@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
Cathryn Burak
Cathy@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
••• SENIOR SALES CONSULTANT MRLinell@charter.net
••• CIRCULATION
Michelle Belsito
Michelle@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
CORPORATE INFORMATION
Healthcare News - Westchester, New York edition Vol. 10 No. 11 - is published monthly, 12 times a year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Postage Paid at New Windsor, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Healthcare Newspaper, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY, 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@Belsito.com
Family Health Plans Planning Your Future With Extended Education Leading Healthcare Facilities Roundup Where to go for quality care when needed
Page 7
Pages 10-11
NEW! Monthly Book List Page 17
Moving More at the Westchester Heart Walk Heart Walk helps fund lifesaving heart research and encourages heart healthy lifestyles Pages 20-21
Yankees Pitcher David Robertson aims to strike out Pancreatic Cancer Healthcare News - Westchester November, 2017
PAGE 7
photos provided
Together the couple worked with increased determination to support patients fighting the disease and have continued to advocate for more awareness. “More time and research will give us a chance to detect the disease earlier and save lives,” said Robertson. “Our hope is that no one else will have to go through the ending that our family had to experience. But we need more people to raise their voice, take action David Robertson with his family and donate to see the results.” Join the Robertsons and support the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network’s urgent goal to double survival by 2020. Please visit www.pancan.org for ways to help spread awareness or to donate.
Rob’s
As the Major League Baseball (MLB) playoffs begin, New York Yankees relief pitcher David Robertson will be aiming to strike out more than just batters. With a new PSA supporting the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN), Robertson hopes to help end pancreatic cancer. Robertson’s passion is driven by the memory of his father-in-law, Rick Cronin, who died from the disease in 2016. In the video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIhJzgmi2HE& feature=youtu.be, Robertson urges friends and fans to get involved with PanCAN to provide hope and improve outcomes for all pancreatic cancer patients. Pancreatic cancer is the world’s toughest cancer with a five-year survival rate of just 9 percent. The disease kills more people than breast cancer in the United States, and more than 53,000 Americans will be diagnosed with the disease this year. That’s more than 145 mothers, daughters, fathers, sons, sisters, brothers, colleagues or friends who hear the dreaded news every single day. Robertson and wife Erin first became involved with PanCAN as volunteers in 2009, neither having a connection to the disease. But six years later, Cronin was diagnosed and the Robertsons felt the effects of pancreatic cancer firsthand.
Poultry Supplies Chicks
ROB IS NOW FULL TIME! Place your orders Monday for Friday Delivery. New Arrivals Every Friday!
914-737-1088
Your Hometown Poultry Store! 2120 Crompond Rd • CORTLANDT MANOR OPEN 8am - 9pm 7 DAYS A WEEK
Named New Business of the Week by Westchester County News!
Healthcare News - Westchester November, 2017
PAGE 11
Where toVolunteer this Holiday Season: Soup Kitchens and more in Westchester County
The Sharing Community, Inc.’s Thanksgiving Day Celebration is a wonderful occasion, memorable for the spirit of giving on the part of the volunteers, contributors, and staff who reach reach out to meet the needs of the homeless and hungry. For more information on this event please email or call Lenora Johnson at 914-963-2626 ext. 245.
The Food Bank for Westchester serves over 300 community partners throughout Westchester, including food pantries, soup kitchens, child and adult day-care centers, and shelters. The Food Bank provides 95% of all the food given to hungry families, children and seniors as cooked meals or groceries to take home. To participate in the Holiday Turkey Drive or to become a volunteer, please call (914) 923-1100 or visit www.foodbankforwestchester.org.
Graces Kitchen is accepting donations of money and food. Volunteer assistance is needed weekdays from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Volunteers are needed to help serve holiday meals on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. For more information call 914-949-3098 or visit www.liftingupwestchester.org/graces-kitchen. The Westchester Community Opportunity Program, Inc. (WestCOP) is accepting monetary donations and seeking volunteers to help children, veterans and families combating poverty and its adverse effects in the Hudson Valley. For more information call 914-592-5600 or visit www.westcop.org.
The Ossining Food Pantry is looking for non-perishable foods such as rice, cereal (healthy, not sugared), soup, tuna, peanut butter and canned vegetables. Volunteers are also needed to facilitate food drives. For more information call (914) 762-5510 or visit www.ossiningfoodpantry.org.
Westhab, Inc. is accepting canned and dried foods of any kind for the food pantry, at two separate locations: 103 Elm Street, Yonkers, New York, 10701; 28 Pier Street, Yonkers, New York, 10705. For more information source:www.nymetroparents.com call 914-345-2800 or visit www.westhab.org.
Healthcare News - Westchester November, 2017
PAGE 11
Topping-Off Westchester Medical Center Health Network celebrates Ambulatory Care Pavilion construction milestone
Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth) and Westchester County celebrated the height of construction on the health network’s new Ambulatory Care Pavilion adjacent to Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla – the largest healthcare construction project in Westchester County in decades – recently with a ceremony recognizing the construction milestone. Representatives from WMCHealth, Westchester County, and the Hudson Valley community gathered for a “topping off” ceremony The 280,000-square-foot, $230 million Ambulatory Care Pavilion, on schedule for completion in 2018, responds to a need for additional space for Westchester Medical Center’s growing programs and patient volume. “As the region’s leading healthcare resource, Westchester Medical Center Health Network is committed to providing the high quality advanced care that the residents of our region expect and deserve,” said Michael D. Israel, President and CEO of WMCHealth. “Today is an exciting day for WMCHealth and for our communities as we celebrate the significant progress that has been made to date on this one-of-a-kind-facility and look forward to the care, innovative technologies and possibilities for the future that will live within its walls.” The eight story steel and glass facility will include an Advanced Imaging Center, Ambulatory Surgery Center and Heart and Vascular Institute, in addition to a 20,000-square-foot expansion in private rooms for the medical center and 75,000 additional square feet for physicians’ offices. Collaboration between WMCHealth and Westchester County was key to the construction of the Ambulatory Care Pavilion. County Executive Robert P. Astorino created the Westchester County Local Development Corporation (LDC) to make tax exempt financing available for not-for-profit organizations at no expense to the county’s taxpayers. The LDC amended its bylaws to expand the nonprofit status reach to public benefit corporations like WMCHealth. “The Ambulatory Care Pavilion will enhance the quality of life for patients in Westchester while creating hundreds of jobs and generating a boost for the local economy – truly a winning combination,” County Executive Robert P. Astorino said. “The county was able to assist in the opening of this state-of-the-art facility through low-cost financing provided by our Local Development Corporation at no risk to the taxpayers.”
With the growth of WMCHealth to include seven hospitals and a workforce of more than 12,000 people, the construction of the new facility is expected to generate 180 new full-time jobs when complete, as well as 225 prevailing wage construction jobs. The construction project is believed to be one of Westchester County’s largest non-residential building projects in recent memory and is the largest healthcare construction project since the construction of WMCHealth main tower in 1977 and the 250,000-square-foot Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital in 2004. “The Ambulatory Care Pavilion will enable WMCHealth to expand its outpatient care offerings and benefit the greater Hudson Valley communities through the economic growth that accompanies it, now and in the future,” said Mitchell Hochberg, Chairman of the Westchester County Health Care Corporation Board of Directors. “Beyond the physical space, the new facility will be a symbol of WMCHealth’s commitment to the Hudson Valley.” To date, 20,000 man hours have been invested to complete the work on the pavilion’s foundations; 5,045 tons of concrete have been poured and 160 tons of steel reinforcements have been installed in the concrete foundations.
WMCHealth’s 280,000-square-foot Outpatient Care Center is Westchester County’s Largest Healthcare Construction Project in 40 years
About Westchester Medical Center Health Network The Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth) is a 1,700-bed healthcare system headquartered in Valhalla, New York, with 10 hospitals on eight campuses spanning 6,200 square miles of the Hudson Valley. WMCHealth employs more than 12,000 people and has nearly 3,000 attending physicians. From Level 1, Level 2 and Pediatric Trauma Centers, the region’s only acute care children’s hospital, an academic medical center, several community hospitals, dozens of specialized institutes and centers, skilled nursing, assisted living facilities, homecare services and one of the largest mental health systems in New York State, today WMCHealth is the pre-eminent provider of integrated healthcare in the Hudson Valley. For more information about WMCHealth, visit WMCHealth.org.
From left, Westchester County Executive Robert Astorino; Michael D. Israel, President and CEO of WMCHealth, and Mitchell Hochberg, Chairman of the Westchester County Health Care Corporation Board of Directors
PAGE 12
November, 2017
Healthcare News - Westchester
Westchester Financial Center 50 Main Street, Suite #1000 White Plains, NY 10606 Email: Info@ejrosenlaw.com
Tel: (914) 816-2900 www.ejrosenlaw.com
The law firm of Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, PC, achieves impressive results for clients in the areas of elder law, trusts and estates
Ely J. Rosenzveig and his son, Ariel, are proud to lead a respected elder law firm in White Plains serving families throughout the tri-state area. However, the family feel extends past father and son. The law firm of Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, P.C treats every client like family. “My dad and I are very involved in our clients’ lives, especially during difficult times,” Ariel Rosenzveig said. “We become close to them and we enjoy the relationships that we build. We value those relationships and are always attentive to our clients to help them with all of their needs. We take special pride in being there for our clients and their families through thick and thin.” Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates practices in all areas of elder law, including trust and estate planning, administration, and litigation, tax counsel, asset protection and special needs planning, Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security disability benefits, guardianships, long term care planning, Medicaid spousal recovery claims, and Medicaid lien resolutions. Father and son pride themselves on an unyielding commitment to the advocacy of their clients’ interests. Estate planning is one of the most important steps any person can take to make sure that their final property and health care wishes are honored, and that loved ones are provided for in their absence. A comprehensive estate plan can resolve a number of legal questions that arise whenever anyone dies. The firm has achieved impressive results for clients on a host of Medicaid related issues, from getting Medicaid approvals for coverage of home care and institutional care benefits, to very accommodative resolutions of Medicaid spousal recovery claims, where the office of Medicaid aggressively pursues a claim for reimbursement for Medicaid benefits provided from the non-institutionalized (i.e., or “community”) spouse.
“Our firm has a thorough understanding of Medicaid and the experience to advocate aggressively and effectively for you and your family,” said Ely Rosenzveig, who has been an attorney for nearly thirty (30) years. “It is very rewarding work and we work tirelessly for our clients.” Elder law is very important. Appropriate estate and asset-protection planning can help preserve assets, reduce taxes, and help individuals qualify for Medicaid. As you or your loved one grows older, the quality of care you receive becomes increasingly important. At some point, it becomes necessary to make plans for the future to make sure that your needs and desires are met. When this time comes, it is important to enlist the experience of Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, so the process of planning for the future is stress-free for your family. This can be critical in the process of maintaining the well-being of you or your loved one. At Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, father and son have the opportunity to help clients plan across the span of many years. Often, it leads to advising multiple generations of the family, which Ely and Ariel Rosenzveig find rewarding. Over the course of time, they help clients as their lives and needs change, from naming the guardians of their minor children in their Wills, to planning for retirement, to protecting assets when in need of a skilled nursing facility or home care. Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates builds a relationship with clients, which is built upon years of assisting them, often in difficult times in their lives, and helping them move beyond those times and provide them with peace of mind and financial security. Our firm is certainly proud to build these types of relationships with families such as yours.
Attorney advertising • Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Healthcare News - Westchester November, 2017
PAGE 13
Sarah Lawrence College Launches Online Certificate Program in Advance Care Planning Program in Cooperation with National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization to train healthcare professionals on talking to patients about end-of-life care decisions With the number of older Americans expected to double by 2060, end-of-life care is fast becoming one of the most important conversations that physicians can have with their patients. Recognizing this fact, Sarah Lawrence College’s Graduate & Professional Studies program has launched a course to train physicians and healthcare professionals in discussing end-of-life care preferences. Advance Care Planning for Primary Care Practitioners is an online non-credit, self-paced, 4-hour CME, CEU certificate in Advance Care Planning for practitioners and practices that receive Medicare B reimbursement. “As the population ages, there is a greater need for information, tools and analysis for healthcare professionals, caregivers and the general public on how to deal with dying,” said Rebecca O. Johnson, MSCED, MFA, Program Director, End-of-Life Care Program, Sarah Lawrence College Graduate & Professional Studies. “Advance Care Planning for Primary Care Practitioners not only provides physicians with the expertise to talk
to their patients about planning for end of life, but with the tools they need to bill under Medicare.’’ The cost of the three-course certificates $1,000 or each course can be taken separately at a cost of $375. The courses offer CME or CEU credits which healthcare providers are required to complete annually as part of their licensing.
The courses address the following topics; • How to conduct quality of life conversations and develop a process for assessment of patients’ wishes and goals. • Understanding your legal and ethical obligations to patients in Advance Care Planning • Instruction in accessing and completing ACP forms.
The faculty includes physicians and legal and healthcare industry experts Healthcare providers interested in learning more about the certificate program can visit https://www.sarahlawrence.edu/ce/eol/certificates.html
6 Smart Steps for Lowering Your Medical Bills Are healthcare debts piling up? Our expert advice can help you cut those costs.
When dealing with a daunting medical bill, such as an unexpected tab from a hospital stay, one approach many people overlook is negotiating a lower price. Insurance companies ask for (and get) huge discounts on posted rates. So why shouldn’t you?
Negotiating may make more sense than ever, with consumers shouldering the costs of higher deductibles and co-pays. No matter what happens in Washington, this trend is likely to continue.
According to a Kaiser Family Foundation survey, 20 percent of those 65 and older struggle to pay medical bills, as do 30 percent of working adults with health insurance. Almost half of Americans surveyed said they’d have trouble paying an unexpected medical bill of $500.
Sometimes you can see a big bill coming—if, for instance, you have a multi-thousand-dollar deductible. But medical bills can also take you by surprise. A 2015 nationally representative Consumer Reports survey of 2,200 adults found that 30 percent of privately insured Americans had received a medical bill where insurance covered less than they expected, leaving them on the hook for the rest.
Whether your bills are the result of a high deductible, an out-of-network charge, a procedure that’s not covered, or lack of insurance, experts say the following could help cut them up to half. (Regulations limit discounts under traditional Medicare, but providers have freer rein with Medicare Advantage and other health plans.)
How To Negotiate Effectively
It may feel odd to bargain with a healthcare provider. But “a lot of doctors are willing to do it—they understand,” says medical billing advocate Adria Gross, CEO of MedWise Insurance Advocacy. So:
1. Be proactive. For planned surgery, make sure your insurer covers the procedure and facility. Tiering (where consumers pay more for certain facilities) is on the rise. Ask your doctor whether everyone involved takes your insurance, and request a written response; that might help if you later learn that an out-of-network provider was used.
If you’ll be paying out of pocket, ask beforehand for a rate in line with what insurance companies pay. “When you deal with things that aren’t covered by insurance, there is a tremendous opportunity to discuss the fee and negotiate a discount off the posted charge,” says Abbie Leibowitz, M.D., chief medical officer of Health Advocate Solutions, an advocacy and health assistance company.
2. Do your research. Whether you’re negotiating in advance or after you get a bill, websites such as Fair Health and Healthcare Bluebook can help you determine what insurers pay in your area. “Say, ‘I know this is the reasonable and customary charge; can we come down a little bit?’ ” Gross suggests.
3. Talk to the right person. If you get a bill, check it to make sure it’s correct. Then ask your insurer if some or all will be covered. If not, call the provider who sent the bill. Start with someone in the billing department or patient financial
Editor's Note: This article also appeared in the October 2017 issue of Consumer Reports on Health.
counseling office, but don’t expect that to be your last stop. “The first response will be, ‘No, I can’t do anything,’ ” Leibowitz says. Keep asking for the manager of the person you’re talking to, until you get to someone with the authority to make a deal.
4. Offer to pay cash. If you can pay most of a bill, offer to do so immediately. Medical advocates say they can often get a 15 to 20 percent “prompt pay” discount this way. “They are running a business,” says James Napoli, CEO of Medliminal, which works with consumers and companies to reduce medical costs. “Appeal to their sense of a good business decision.”
5. Explain why you can’t pay. “If you are in retirement on a set income, that will play into it,” Napoli says. The possibility of not getting paid gives healthcare providers a reason to offer a discount or payment plan (ask that it be interestfree). Some states, such as California, require hospitals to provide free or reduced care to consumers within certain income limits. Ask whether yours does. 6. Enlist help. Many hospitals have patient advocates who can help you understand billing codes and pinpoint errors. Hiring a medical advocate is another option, though it can be expensive. Some take a flat fee, and others charge a percentage of what they save you (25 percent is typical). When considering advocates, ask for their track record and make sure they have experience with complicated medical billing codes.
PAGE 14
November, 2017
Healthcare News - Westchester
ar ou
The average family caregiver is a working mother of school-aged children. Mornings become a tricky balancing act of getting the kids ready for school, making sure your loved one has what they need for the day before getting yourself out the door for work.
Up to 70% of the time, the family caregiver – not the patient – manages the medications. The more serious the condition, the more likely it is that the family caregiver manages the medications for the patient. This means ensuring your loved one is taking their medication correctly and maintaining an up-to-date medication list.
During the Workday: Juggling caregiving and work.
Six out of 10 family caregivers work full- or part-time in addition to juggling their caregiving responsibilities at home. And most of them say they have to cut back on working hours, take a leave of absence, or quit their job entirely.
The theme for National Family Caregivers Month November 2017 is
“Caregiving Around the Clock”
PAGE 15
Evening: Family time/meal time.
Ensuring that you get proper nutrition will help you maintain strength, energy, stamina, and a positive attitude. Nutrition is as important for you as the caregiver as it for your loved one. Caregiving affects the whole family.
CloCk
All Day Long: Managing medications.
Caregiving
can be a 24-hours a day/7-days a week job. Caring for a senior with Alzheimer’s or a child with special needs can be non-stop. Providing care around the clock can crowd out other important areas of life. And you never know when you will need to rush to the hospital or leave work at the drop of a hat. What challenges do family caregivers face, and how do they manage them day and night?
nd
Th e
C areGivin G
Morning: Getting off to work.
Healthcare News - Westchester November, 2017
Late at Night: Taking time for yourself.
Late at night might be the only time you get a few minutes for yourself. Make sure you take time to rest and recharge. The chance to take a breather and re-energize is vital in order for you to be as good a caregiver tomorrow as you were today.
The Middle of the Night: Emergency room visits.
Have you ever had to take your loved one to the emergency room in the middle of the night? Be prepared ahead of time with what you need to know and what you need to have with you.
Source:www.CaregiverAction.org
PAGE 16
November, 2017
Healthcare News - Westchester
photo
s p ro
vided
Soup recipes to help detox your body
Are you toxic? It’s hard not to be in a world filled with pollution along with food toxins such as dyes, fillers, additives and preservatives. Toxins can adversely affect us from brain to toe, damaging our cells, creating numerous health problems and accelerating aging. But one good way to rid the body of toxins is with nutrient-charged soups, says Cherie Calbom (www.juiceladycherie.com), a best-selling author and nutritionist whose latest book, Souping is the New Juicing, includes a toxicity quiz. “Soup can be a part of any detox program,” Calbom says. “What if you never changed the oil or filters in your car? Our bodies are a bit like our cars. They have filter systems that need to be cleaned out and fluids that need to be flushed out. That’s where souping comes in, offering an abundance of antioxidants, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals. “Toxins in the brain can cause a host of cognitive and emotional problems. They make us weak, restless, and unable to fight off infections, and can even cause pain in our muscles and joints.” Detoxing the body, Calbom says, has the dual effect of healing and helping weight loss. Here is a recipe she suggests:
Color Me Green
Research shows that the isothiocyanates from kale help regulate detox activities. 5 garlic cloves, minced 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil ½ tsp. sea salt 1 cup broccoli, chopped 1-11/2 cups spinach 1 cup kale, chopped 1 can cannellini or great northern beans, drained 2 tsp. fresh turmeric, chopped or 1 tsp. dried turmeric ¼ cup lemon juice (11/2 lemons, juiced) 1 large bunch of cilantro, chopped 1 tbsp. all-purpose seasoning 1 bouillon cube 3½ cups of water Sea salt and pepper to taste
On medium heat sauté garlic with olive oil and salt. Add chopped broccoli and stir for five minutes. Stir in spinach until the leaves are wilted, then add the rest of the ingredients. Stir and simmer for 15 minutes on low to medium heat.
SUBSCRIBE NOW! ONE YEAR—12 ISSUES
ONLY $19.99 Name: ____________________________________________________
Title: ______________________________________________________
Address __________________________________________________
City: ______________________________________________________ State: _____________________________________________________
Zip: _______________________________________________________ Telephone: (
) __________________ - ____________________
E-mail ____________________________________________________
Send payment to:
Healthcare News 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553
Healthcare News - Westchester November, 2017
PAGE 17
Reading is exercise for your brain: Our November Book List for Healthcare News To Siri with Love Judith Newman, Harper Collins One mom’s often humorous chronicle of her autistic son’s friendship with Apple’s Siri
Better Homes & Gardens New Cook Book, 16th Edition Better Homes & Gardens, Houghton, Mifflin, Harcourt Publishing Completely revised and updated version of the 1930 classic.
I’m Too Young to be This Old Poppy Smith, Harvest House Publishers Light and serious look at aging and how to turn later years into the best years of one’s life.
Unbelievable: My Front-Row Seat to the Craziest Campaign in American History Katy Tur, Dey Street Books Tur’s fascinating documentation of her 500 days on the campaign trail of Donald Trump.
Ruin: Photographs of a Vanishing America Brian Vanden Brink, Down East Books Striking images of the beauty in architectural ruins
How Starbucks Saved My Life: A Son of Privilege Learns to Live Like Everyone Else Michael Gates Gill, Avery Inspiring Riches to Rags memoir of the humbling and rebirth of the author, a former advertising executive, as a barista at Starbucks.
The Woman in Cabin 10 Ruth Ware, Gallery/Scout Press The perfect thriller for travel aficionados and fans of classic Agatha Christie.
Visual Finance: The One Page Visual Model to Understand Financial Statements and Make Better Decisions Georgi Tsvetanov, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform Perfect tool for understanding finance and financial statements for everyone.
photos provided
After Melanoma PAGE 18
November, 2017
Healthcare News - Westchester
Top tips for living your best life There’s no doubt that your life will change when you get a diagnosis of melanoma. Depending on how serious your disease is, things might be very different for you or only slightly switched up. Either way, there are ways to handle these changes and even thrive while you move on with your life.
Shield Your Skin If you’ve had one melanoma, it means you're at risk for more. But you can protect your skin with some basic sun-safety tips. • Don't spend much time outside between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun and its piercing ultraviolet (UV) rays are strongest. • Every time you go outside, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects against UVA and UVB rays. It should have an SPF of at least 30. Reapply at least every 2 hours, and more often if you're swimming, sweating, or spending time near water or snow. • Cover your skin with pants, long sleeves, a wide-brimmed hat. • Wear UV-protective sunglasses outside to protect your eyes. You may have a higher risk for eye melanoma, so see your eye doctor regularly, too. • Be extra careful if you’re taking "photosensitive" drugs, which make you more sensitive to the sun. This includes some chemotherapy drugs. • Check every part of your skin at least once a month, looking for any new or changing marks. Also make sure you have regular checkups with your doctor.
Keep Control of Conversations After a melanoma diagnosis, many people feel better if they confide in others about what’s going on. But sometimes that can backfire. You may find yourself fielding uncomfortable questions or inappropriate comments. Try these tips to keep awkward moments to a minimum -- or at least control your reaction to them: • Remember, it's usually not about you. People bring their own fears and memories to the table. • Decide carefully who you’re going to tell about your disease as well as when and how much to share. • If you're exhausted from explaining your diagnosis over and over again, direct people to a web site or choose a friend or family member to answer questions. • Have responses ready in case you get odd questions or comments, or be ready to change the subject.
Get Back to Your Workouts Exercise is one of the best things anyone can do for their health, and people with melanoma are no exception. You just need to follow a few commonsense guidelines: • Don't do any really taxing exercise (kickboxing, for example) right after surgery, even if the cut seems to be a small one. Overdo it and you could tear your stitches. • Keep in mind that melanoma treatment may have affected your stamina. Even if you were super active before the diagnosis, start
out slowly when you’re getting back to your workouts after treatment. • If your treatment makes you tired, plan exercise at times of the day when you have the most energy. • Outdoor workouts should be fine as long as you protect yourself from the sun. • Always talk to your health care team about the types of activity that are best during your recovery.
Sex After Melanoma If you find and treat melanoma in the early stages, your sex life probably won't change much. If you need chemo and other treatments, though, you may need to adjust. Try these tips: • If a position is uncomfortable, try ones that are easier on you, like both you and your partner lying on your sides. • Chemo drugs can stay in semen or vaginal fluids for up to 3 days after you get them. Use a condom during that time (for oral sex, too) so you don’t pass the chemicals to your partner. • Some treatments can affect your desire for sex, keep you from climaxing, or irritate your genitals. Talk to your doctor or nurse about ways to handle these problems. • If your body doesn’t have enough white blood cells, which can happen with chemo, don't have vaginal or anal sex until your levels go back up. You might get an infection, and you would need those cells to fight it.
Healthcare News - Westchester November, 2017
PAGE 19
5K and 1K • Run or W alk • Kids Fun Run
Jolly for a Reason Westchester December 9, 2017 On-Site On Site Registra ation at 8:0 8:00 00 a a.m. m Run begins at 10:00 a.m. a SUNY Purchase Colllege 735 Anderson Road Purchase, NY 10577
at y a od t r e ist Reg
er t s e tch s e W / g r s.o i t i r arth 100% of your ur registration fee and fundraising efforts go to a great cause.
PAGE 20
November, 2017
Healthcare News - Westchester
Moving More at the Westchester Heart Walk Heart Walk helps fund lifesaving heart research and encourages heart healthy lifestyles
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the No. 1 killer of all Americans. Heart disease also kills more women than all forms of cancer combined. But more than 80% of heart disease incidence can be prevented with simple lifestyle changes like moving more. The American Heart Association’s October 1st Heart Walk event at Kensico Dam got Westchester residents moving more to fight heart disease, and the money raised will fund research, and help save lives. Donations are still being accepted online at www.westchesterheartwalk.org. The Heart Walk is the AHA’s biggest annual event, raising more than $400,000 for AHA programs and research at last year’s event. This year’s event drew nearly 1,200 participants from more than 70 teams registered online. New “Move More” fitness stations were added to get even more activity at the 5K walk event. Kids and adults, and even some cadets volunteering at the event from Company E1 at West Point, tried the Plank Challenge, potato sack races, balloon tennis and more to get moving more. They ended the 5K with a dance celebration on the Kensico Dam Plaza. “We know sitting is the new smoking and that inactivity is bad for hearts and blood vessels. We want people to move more to keep their hearts healthy to prevent the number one killer—heart disease,” said Jennifer Miller, AHA Heart Walk Senior Regional Director, “Today was a celebration that heart disease and stroke are survivable.” Heart Walk Chair, Lori Morton from Regeneron in Tarrytown said that many young researchers receive AHA research grants as their first source of funding. The Konow family of Ossining is grateful for research, early detection and advanced treatments for CHD. Their baby had lifesaving open heart surgery on the day of last year’s Heart Walk. They shared their story to raise awareness and were honored at this year’s event.
Kailey and Ryan Konow showed up for their 20-week prenatal appointment with the anticipation and excitement of any expectant parents. The doctors confirmed they were having a girl—but that she had a rare congenital heart defect. She was given heart tests immediately after birth last August. Two months later, she got a simple cold and her oxygen levels dipped dangerously low. Mila Rose was put in a coma so her heart would stop working so hard and had emergency heart surgery on the date of last year’s Heart Walk to open her artery. On January 6th, she had the surgery for her full heart repair, and went home after 15 days, her heart fully repaired. continued on next page
Westchester Heart Walk
continued from previous page
“We are so grateful for the technology and research that allowed the early detection. We're so grateful for the doctors who continually focused in on her diagnosis and were always ready for her. She will be closely monitored for her cardiology team for the rest of her life, but her future is bright and our hearts are full,” said Konow.
PAGE 21
Healthcare News - Westchester November, 2017
CHD is the most common heart birth defect but it is survivable—the AHA journal Circulation that estimates about 1 million children and 1.4 million adults in the United States were living with a congenital heart defect (CHD) in 2010. The American Heart Association’s funding for pediatric cardiac research is second only to the federal government. Learn more at www.heart.org.
Company E1 Cadets from USMA at West Point tried the Plank Challenge in the American Heart Association Heart Walk’s Move More Fitness Zone. Cadets volunteered at the event.
The Heart Walk is sponsored by White Plains Hospital, WMC Health/Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, Fujifilm, Dr. Patrick W. Thomas and Mrs. Johanna D. Thomas, New York Presbyterian, Phelps Hospital/Northwell Health, New York Medical College, Stop & Shop, Examiner Media, The Peak, Buzz Creators, News 12 Westchester, and Westchester Magazine.
Photos: Carolyn Torella/American Heart Association
Heart Walkers from Team Braveheart stopped to thank USMA at West Point Cadets for their service and for volunteering on Sunday at the Heart Walk.
THEIR IN NDEPENDE ENCE IS ALSO YO OURS H as yyour loved one lost some of t hat enthusiasm fo for things they used to love to do? Social interaction and fr friendships are key to reegaining happiness and independenc n e. At Five Star Y Yoonkers, we have exciting activities that develop and expand personal interests to luxurious amenities that make senior living carefree. Call today ffo or a private tour.
Phone us today at (914) 423 -2200 Ph 00 A S K F O R T H E S A L E S D E PA R T M E N T
|
Special priccing on selec t apartments, plus second person STA AY YS FREE!*
A F I V E S TA R IN D EP EN D EN T, A S S I S T E D L I V ING A N D M E M O R Y C AR E C O M M U NI T Y
PAGE 22
November, 2017
Healthcare News - Westchester
Healthcare News - Westchester November, 2017
PAGE 23
PAGE 24
November, 2017
Healthcare News - Westchester
Do You Have Term Life Insurance…??? I guess the more That is, do By Andrew J. Cavaliere, CLTCimportant question is really the next one.How difficult I guess the more important question is really the next one. That is, do
y y w w
How difficult
Do you have term life insurance? I guess more question It usedthe to be thatimportant most folks wanted isa really better the life next for one. It used to be that most folks wanted a better life for domost you really care enough about the future of yourlike family provide It used That to be is, that folks didn’t want their children to struggle theyto had to. for them if you are It used to be that most folks didn’t want their children to struggle like they had to. no longer alive? How difficult will it be for your children to chase their dreams, attend the college of their choice, get married or start a business if you leave them nothingtax butplanning, bills and debt? O This includes O includes It used to be that most folks wanted a better life for their This kids. It usedastounds totax beplanning, that r It simply memost to folks r It simply astounds me to didn’t want their children to struggle like they had to. s s This is especially disturbing when we know that term life This is especially disturbing when we know that term life Our office i offers clients a comprehensive FREE financial review. This includes tax planning, retirement planning and i insurance planning for individuals and business owners. It simply astounds me to see just how many people come into our office who are married with small children and try to explain why they do not own any life insurance. This is especially disturbing when we know that term life insurance rates are lower than any other time in history. According to a recent 1 2016 study conducted bymay LIMRA , 40% of all households have versions no life insurance. You have heard of U.S. the two most popular of these products: Whole Life and You may have heard of the two most popular versions of these products: Whole Life and U The answer is quite simple. These products are more expensive. If people cannot U The answer is quite simple. These products are expensive. cannot Most insurance agents and financial advisors understand why people do not wantmore to buy permanent Iflifepeople insurance. You may a a have heard of the two most popular versions of these products: Whole Life and Universal Life. The answer is quite simple. These products are more expensive. If people cannot afford the higher premiums of cash value life insurance, then they cannot afford the higher premiums of cash value life insurance. Having said that, for shorter periods of time, term life insurance can equally protect your family in case of an untimely death. The death benefit is triple tax-free to your beneficiaries regardless. The death benefit is payable due The death benefit is triple tax-free to your beneficiaries regardless. The death benefit is payable due A word to whether own will Whole Life or Term Life insuranceThe if you die.death The death t the wise, your family will not careThe deathyou benefit bypass probate regardless. cash t The death benefit will bypass probate regardless. The cash death benefit isbtriple tax-free to your beneficiaries regardless. The death benefitHaving is payable due to accident illnessdeath regardless. personally deliveredormany b Having personally delivered many death The death c benefit will bypass probate regardless. The death benefit will be available immediately to your family regardless. c Having personally delivered many death claims in my 24 year career, I must inform my readers that there is a huge difference between delivering a check for a million dollars and delivering a sympathy card. t t
The chart below shows a sample of just how inexpensive 20 Year Guaranteed Term Life rates are currently.
T assume the male insured is issued Preferred, Non-Smoking by an A rated or better carrier: These rates T AGE
DEATH BENEFIT
35 40 45 50 55
$1,000,000.00 $1,000,000.00 $1,000,000.00 $1,000,000.00 $1,000,000.00
AGE
DEATH BENEFIT
35 40 45 50 55
$1,000,000.00 $1,000,000.00 $1,000,000.00 $1,000,000.00 $1,000,000.00
MONTHLY PREMIUM $53.72 $73.85 $118.12 $181.56 $293.04
These rates assume the female insured is issued Preferred, Non-Smoking by an A rated or better carrier: MONTHLY PREMIUM $45.50 $62.12 $89.16 $134.31 $210.00
Do you have a non-working spouse and a mortgage? Do you want to guarantee your children go to college if you are no Do you to guarantee children go to with if longer around? Do you have large amounts of debt or business loans thatwant you do not want toyour burden your family Do you want to guarantee your children go to c come home from work tomorrow? Do you have large amounts of debt orbusiness businesspartner loans that youmillions do you do not Do you want to be able to buy your out for of c Do you have large amounts of debt or business loans that you do dollars if he or she dies prematurely so you can protect your family’s interests? These are just a few questions we ask our serious clients.
For more information about Life Insurance and Estate Planning please call Andrew J. Cavaliere, CLTC at 914-682-2190 or toll free 877-676-9900. Andrew is certified in Long-Term Care (CLTC) from the Corporation for Long-Term Care Certification, Inc. Andrew is a member in good standing of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), the premier Association of financial professionals nationally. Andrew’s offices are located at 50 Main Street, Suite 1000, White Plains, NY 10606 and at 263 Tresser Blvd, 9th Floor, Stamford, CT 06901.
1
Life Insurance and Market Research Association (now LIMRA International, Inc.) is a worldwide research, learning and development organization and the trusted source of industry knowledge for over 850 financial services firms.
A s k A n E x p e r t
PAGE 26
November, 2017
Healthcare News - Westchester
Resource Directory
Chiropractors
Westchester Spinal Decompression Center Dr. Jonathan Donath, DC, MS 222 Westchester Ave. Suite 405 White Plains, NY 10604
914-421-1502
www.westchesterpainrelief.com
Nursing & Rehabilitation
VICTORIA HOME Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Person- Centered Care on a Riverview Estate Since 1916.
Entertainment
Victoria Home is a New York State Licensed Nursing Facility. Please contact us for more information or to schedule a tour. 25 North Malcolm Street Ossining, New York 10562 (914) 941-2450 Fax: (914) 941-2962 www.victoriahome.org
A unique movie-going experience is coming this May. RIVERTOWNS SQUARE SAW MILL RIVER PKWY & LAWRENCE ST. 1 Livingstone Ave., Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 914.348.7002 ipic.com
Hospitals
Burke Rehabilitation Hospital 785 Mamaroneck Ave. White Plains, NY 10605 914-597-2268
Life & Health Insurance
KEYSTONE FINANCIAL ADVISORS
Keystone Financial Advisors 50 Main Street, Suite 1000, White Plains, NY 10606 Tel: 914-682-2190 • Fax: 914-931-8400 Toll: 877-676-9900 www.Keystonefa.com • acavaliere@Keystonefa.com ANDREW J. CAVALIERE, CLTC Life Insurance Health Insurance Long-Term Care Insurance Long-Term Disability Insurance Guaranteed Fixed Annuities Medicare Supplements Life Settlements
Residential & Health Care Services • 24- Hour On-Site Nursing Services • Attending Physicians/ Medical Director • IV Therapy/ Wound care • Dental/ Podiatry • Mental Health/ Social Services • Registered Dietitian & Specialized Diets • Full Service Dining-Room • Housekeeping & Laundry Services • In-House Beauty Parlor • Therapeutic Recreation • Exercise Program/ Nursing Rehabilitation • Palliative & Comfort Care • Specialized Residence For Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care Rehabilitation Services • Physical/ Occupational & Speech Therapy • Short Term Stay Available • Surgical Recovery • Cardiac Recovery • Pulmonary Care • Orthopedic Recovery & Care • Neurological Recovery & Care • Medically Complex Care • Disease Management Education
All Listings are also available online at www.healthcarenewspaper.com. Click on Resource Directory on the top right side. To include your business in our next edition call Nancy at 845-534-7500 ext. 219 or email Nancy@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
Westchester County Health Services
Health Insurance Access Program (NY State of Health) Free or low-cost health insurance for all children and teens under 19 years of age. he Westchester County Department of Health has 8 IPAs/Navigators available in 25 ocations throughout Westchester County and the Bronx. To schedule an appointment to meet with a Navigator or for more information about Program services, contact the Health Department at hnav@westchestergov.com or call (914) 995-6350, 9:00am - 5:00pm, Monday through Friday. Healthy Mom, Healthy Baby By calling 2-1-1, pregnant women can get help to connect to prenatal care, apply for insurance coverage for prenatal care and receive care for themselves and their baby.
WIC Program Supplemental food, nutrition education and referrals for health care for eligible pregnant and breastfeeding women and for nfants and children to age five.
How to Apply Westchester County WIC Offices are located at the Health Department District Offices in Yonkers, and Port Chester. To find out more about the WIC Program or to schedule an appointment, contact one of the offices below. Yonkers WIC Office 20 South Broadway, 2nd floor Yonkers, New York 10701 Phone: (914) 231-2510 Port Chester WIC Office 1 Gateway Plaza, 1st floor South Main Street Port Chester, NY 10573 Phone: (914) 813-7244
Complaint Bureau Call (914) 813-5000 for public health emergencies 24 hours a day; call for referrals and public health information weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Join us for coffee and a one-on-one meeting. Meet with an MVP Medicare team expert for a cup of coffee and a friendly conversation about your Medicare needs. We can answer questions about benefits and tell you about all of MVP’s Medicare Advantage plans.
5 reasons why MVP is a good choice:
1
Committed, personal service team to help you manage your membership
2 3
Free SilverSneakers® gym membership
4 5
Low or no co-pays on popular prescriptions
No pressure and no obligation.
To book your meeting, call 1-888-713-5536 Seven days a week, 8 am–8 pm Eastern Time TTY: 1-800-662-1220
Or visit MVPcanhelp.com The annual election period for MVP Health Care Medicare Advantage health plans is October 15–December 7, 2017. MVP Health Plan, Inc. is an HMO-POS/PPO/MSA organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in MVP Health Plan depends on contract renewal. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, co-payments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premiums and/or co-payments/co-insurance may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. The Formulary and provider network may change at any time. You will receive notice when necessary. Y0051_3593 Accepted 09/2017
$75 gift card for staying current with yearly exams, tests, and screenings
22,000+ qualified doctors and hospitals to choose from