WINTER 2014 A publication for the policyholders of the Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield family of companies
Foundation offers
$1,000
mini grants to
healthimprovement
programs Does your organization need some support for its community healthimprovement project? The Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas might be able to help.
Any 501(c)(3) public charity, public school, governmental agency or nonprofit hospital in Arkansas is eligible to apply. Churches also are eligible if their health-improvement program reaches beyond its own congregation. Grants are not made to individuals. Grant guidelines and online applications can be found at BlueAndYouFoundationArkansas.org.
page
8
During the months of February through April, the Blue & You Foundation is accepting applications for $1,000 mini grants to support health-improvement projects in Arkansas.
MPI 1991 1/14
Need help enrolling in the Marketplace?
SilverSneakers award winner
New online tools for members
pages
page
page
4--7
10
16
of
Betty Foster stretches out in her SilverSneakers® class in Jonesboro. (see story on page 10)
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Taking innovative steps to address health care cost and quality
4
Ringing in the new health insurance plans
5
Affordable health insurance options
6
Arkansas Blue Cross teams up with Goodwill to enroll uninsured Arkansans
10
Resolving to lose weight? Let us help!
13
Small resolutions, big impact
14
UAM honors Arkansas Blue Cross executive 2014 Blue & You Fitness Challenge
Don’t forget a dental plan!
8
12
Live Fearless: A member’s search to reclaim her life leads her to search and rescue A complete transformation: SilverSneakers award winner
WINTER 2014
15
Arkansas Blue Cross recognized by Information Week
16
How much will your medical procedure cost you? Find out online!
17
New website for Medi-Pak Advantage members
18
When was your last tetanus shot?
19
Is it too late to vaccinate? Customer Service telephone numbers
20
Foundation offers $1,000 mini grants
Blue &You is published four times a year by Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield for the company’s members, health care professionals and other persons interested in health care and wellness. Health information from sources outside of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield do not necessarily represent the official position of the company.
EDITOR: Jennifer Sullivan – bnyou-ed@arkbluecross.com • DESIGNER: Ryan Kravitz • PHOTOGRAPHER: Chip Bayer CONTRIBUTORS: Will Ballard, Chip Bayer, Matthew Creasman, Damona Fisher, Kristy Fleming, Lauren Green, Trey Hankins, Heather Iacobacci-Miller, Jessica Kelley, Genny Kirchner, Kathy Luzietti, Wendy McCullar, Ben McVay, Mark Morehead, Alex Roberts, Lee Smith, Kelly Whitehorn and Stephen Wilson VICE PRESIDENT, COMMUNICATIONS and PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT: Karen Raley
2
on the cover BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
Donna Waugh, president of the American Scent Dog Association (ASDA), walks with John D, her companion for search and rescue operations.
OUT BLUE
Taking innovative steps to address health care cost and quality At Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, it is important for us to keep a focus on the cost and quality of the health care our members receive. We continue to work to ensure the doctors and hospitals within our networks receive compensation for their services that is fair, but we also strive to have competitive pricing in the market. We understand that the biggest portion of your premium is a direct result of medical costs. As we move into this new health care marketplace, Arkansas Blue Cross is working to improve both the cost and quality of the care you receive in the following ways: 1. With the passing of the Medicaid private option in Arkansas and many other states, it stands to reason that there will be less uncompensated medical care. Previously, people who did not have health insurance often were not able to pay for medical care. The cost of this uncompensated care is paid by all of us in higher health insurance premiums. We are working closely with doctors and hospitals to create a payment reform system that creates a win/win outcome for everyone. 2. We already are beginning to pay our primary care doctors to be more proactive in providing care . Instead of simply treating a patient’s symptoms, we are giving doctors incentives to reach out to patients to keep them healthy, and help people with chronic conditions better manage their illness. Your doctor’s office may contact you if you haven’t had preventive screenings or tests to manage a health condition. We also are providing primary care
a message from our President and CEO, MARK WHITE
doctors with actionable information on specialists in their area to assist in finding the best fit for you if you need further treatment. 3. In the past, if you had a medical condition that was treated by several doctors, or maybe even a hospital stay, the information about your care may not have been available to everyone involved. To address this, medical specialists are being tasked to become team leaders in coordinating your care. This way, all your medical providers will be more aware of your entire course of treatment, not just their part, and that coordination should improve your overall care. 4. We are using our vast storehouse of data to provide specialists with information on how their practice stands in relation to their peers in the same field. This helps them to determine if there are ways they can improve their delivery of services to you. It is too early to claim victory for many of these initiatives, but we do know that doctors and hospitals are working with the insurance industry to discuss ways to use the latest technology and data available in support of providing the highest quality and most efficient care. This initiative will have a positive impact on the cost of your health care and the quality of that care. WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
3
of
Betty Foster stretches out in her SilverSneakers® class in Jonesboro. (see story on page 10)
3
Taking innovative steps to address health care cost and quality
4
Ringing in the new health insurance plans
5
Affordable health insurance options
6
Arkansas Blue Cross teams up with Goodwill to enroll uninsured Arkansans
10
Resolving to lose weight? Let us help!
13
Small resolutions, big impact
14
UAM honors Arkansas Blue Cross executive 2014 Blue & You Fitness Challenge
Don’t forget a dental plan!
8
12
Live Fearless: A member’s search to reclaim her life leads her to search and rescue A complete transformation: SilverSneakers award winner
WINTER 2014
15
Arkansas Blue Cross recognized by Information Week
16
How much will your medical procedure cost you? Find out online!
17
New website for Medi-Pak Advantage members
18
When was your last tetanus shot?
19
Is it too late to vaccinate? Customer Service telephone numbers
20
Foundation offers $1,000 mini grants
Blue &You is published four times a year by Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield for the company’s members, health care professionals and other persons interested in health care and wellness. Health information from sources outside of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield do not necessarily represent the official position of the company.
EDITOR: Jennifer Sullivan – bnyou-ed@arkbluecross.com • DESIGNER: Ryan Kravitz • PHOTOGRAPHER: Chip Bayer CONTRIBUTORS: Will Ballard, Chip Bayer, Matthew Creasman, Damona Fisher, Kristy Fleming, Lauren Green, Trey Hankins, Heather Iacobacci-Miller, Jessica Kelley, Genny Kirchner, Kathy Luzietti, Wendy McCullar, Ben McVay, Mark Morehead, Alex Roberts, Lee Smith, Kelly Whitehorn and Stephen Wilson VICE PRESIDENT, COMMUNICATIONS and PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT: Karen Raley
2
on the cover BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
Donna Waugh, president of the American Scent Dog Association (ASDA), walks with John D, her companion for search and rescue operations.
OUT BLUE
Taking innovative steps to address health care cost and quality At Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, it is important for us to keep a focus on the cost and quality of the health care our members receive. We continue to work to ensure the doctors and hospitals within our networks receive compensation for their services that is fair, but we also strive to have competitive pricing in the market. We understand that the biggest portion of your premium is a direct result of medical costs. As we move into this new health care marketplace, Arkansas Blue Cross is working to improve both the cost and quality of the care you receive in the following ways: 1. With the passing of the Medicaid private option in Arkansas and many other states, it stands to reason that there will be less uncompensated medical care. Previously, people who did not have health insurance often were not able to pay for medical care. The cost of this uncompensated care is paid by all of us in higher health insurance premiums. We are working closely with doctors and hospitals to create a payment reform system that creates a win/win outcome for everyone. 2. We already are beginning to pay our primary care doctors to be more proactive in providing care . Instead of simply treating a patient’s symptoms, we are giving doctors incentives to reach out to patients to keep them healthy, and help people with chronic conditions better manage their illness. Your doctor’s office may contact you if you haven’t had preventive screenings or tests to manage a health condition. We also are providing primary care
a message from our President and CEO, MARK WHITE
doctors with actionable information on specialists in their area to assist in finding the best fit for you if you need further treatment. 3. In the past, if you had a medical condition that was treated by several doctors, or maybe even a hospital stay, the information about your care may not have been available to everyone involved. To address this, medical specialists are being tasked to become team leaders in coordinating your care. This way, all your medical providers will be more aware of your entire course of treatment, not just their part, and that coordination should improve your overall care. 4. We are using our vast storehouse of data to provide specialists with information on how their practice stands in relation to their peers in the same field. This helps them to determine if there are ways they can improve their delivery of services to you. It is too early to claim victory for many of these initiatives, but we do know that doctors and hospitals are working with the insurance industry to discuss ways to use the latest technology and data available in support of providing the highest quality and most efficient care. This initiative will have a positive impact on the cost of your health care and the quality of that care. WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
3
Ringing in the new health insurance
plans As we ring in the New Year, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield continues to offer our new health insurance plans — on and off the federal government’s Health Insurance Marketplace — and welcomes many new members. If you are under 65, not eligible for Medicare, and are eligible for lowcost or free health insurance on the Marketplace, you still have until March 31 to sign up. If you have friends or family who may qualify, let them know that Arkansas Blue Cross is ready to help them enroll. We also have affordable options for people shopping off the Marketplace. Call an agent or call us at 1-800-310-3778, or go to our website, arkansasbluecross.com, to find out more about the health plans available. You can use the “Do I Qualify for a Tax Credit” online tool to find out if you could receive financial help on your health insurance premium. You can even visit one of 12 Goodwill Industries of Arkansas® stores to talk with an Arkansas Blue Cross representative (see page 6).
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BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
Remember, if you have an individual or family plan purchased before April 2010, you have a grandfathered plan, which is exempt from many health care law regulations. Don’t give up your grandfathered plan without talking to an Arkansas Blue Cross representative or your agent. If you lose this plan, you can’t get it back. If you have a Medicare plan or an employer-purchased health plan, your health insurance needs already should be covered. Whether you already are enrolled in a plan or still looking, you can put your trust in Arkansas Blue Cross to provide you with the best possible coverage and service.
If you are young and healthy and in need of health insurance, you may want to consider health plan options sold off the Health Insurance Marketplace. Essential Blue Freedom from Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield offers quality health insurance at an affordable rate. Essential Blue Freedom offers $30 copayments for doctor’s office visits, $15 generic prescription drugs, a $1,000 deductible and $2,000 out-of-pocket maximum. Because it is not approved for the Marketplace, you will have a review of your medical history and you will have to pay the penalty for not purchasing a government-approved health plan. Even with the penalty, Essential Blue Freedom may save you money. To learn more, call us at 1-800-310-3778, visit with an agent, or go to our website, arkansasbluecross.com. You will be glad you did!
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
5
Ringing in the new health insurance
plans As we ring in the New Year, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield continues to offer our new health insurance plans — on and off the federal government’s Health Insurance Marketplace — and welcomes many new members. If you are under 65, not eligible for Medicare, and are eligible for lowcost or free health insurance on the Marketplace, you still have until March 31 to sign up. If you have friends or family who may qualify, let them know that Arkansas Blue Cross is ready to help them enroll. We also have affordable options for people shopping off the Marketplace. Call an agent or call us at 1-800-310-3778, or go to our website, arkansasbluecross.com, to find out more about the health plans available. You can use the “Do I Qualify for a Tax Credit” online tool to find out if you could receive financial help on your health insurance premium. You can even visit one of 12 Goodwill Industries of Arkansas® stores to talk with an Arkansas Blue Cross representative (see page 6).
4
BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
Remember, if you have an individual or family plan purchased before April 2010, you have a grandfathered plan, which is exempt from many health care law regulations. Don’t give up your grandfathered plan without talking to an Arkansas Blue Cross representative or your agent. If you lose this plan, you can’t get it back. If you have a Medicare plan or an employer-purchased health plan, your health insurance needs already should be covered. Whether you already are enrolled in a plan or still looking, you can put your trust in Arkansas Blue Cross to provide you with the best possible coverage and service.
If you are young and healthy and in need of health insurance, you may want to consider health plan options sold off the Health Insurance Marketplace. Essential Blue Freedom from Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield offers quality health insurance at an affordable rate. Essential Blue Freedom offers $30 copayments for doctor’s office visits, $15 generic prescription drugs, a $1,000 deductible and $2,000 out-of-pocket maximum. Because it is not approved for the Marketplace, you will have a review of your medical history and you will have to pay the penalty for not purchasing a government-approved health plan. Even with the penalty, Essential Blue Freedom may save you money. To learn more, call us at 1-800-310-3778, visit with an agent, or go to our website, arkansasbluecross.com. You will be glad you did!
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
5
Arkansas Blue Cross
teams with Goodwill to enroll uninsured Arkansans
An Arkansas Blue Cross representative talks to a customer at the North Little Rock Goodwill store.
Do you have friends or family who need help enrolling in free or low-cost health insurance plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace? Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has teamed with Goodwill Industries of Arkansas® to provide assistance in 12 Goodwill retail stores in the state. You can shop for bargains and health insurance at the same time!
Certified insurance agents are manning Arkansas Blue Cross enrollment stations in the Goodwill retail stores. They can walk Arkansans through the enrollment process, answer questions and help them select a health plan. “We are honored to collaborate with Goodwill Industries of Arkansas in helping provide Arkansans with health insurance coverage,” said Karen
Mountain Home 759 Highway 62 East, Suite 102
Bryant 5914 Highway 5N
North Little Rock 6929 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Cabot 204 S. Rockwood Dr.
Paragould 2808 W. Kingshighway
Fayetteville 3105 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. 705 E. Appleby Rd.
Rogers 4301 South Dixieland Rd.
Raley, vice president of Communications and Product Development for Arkansas Blue Cross. “Arkansans without insurance face barriers in accessing quality health care and necessary medications. Our certified agents will guide those whom Goodwill serves every day through the eligibility and enrollment process so that they can get coverage to help take better care of themselves, which in turn
supports their ability to take good care of their families.”
Don’t forget A
Did you know that under the health care law, pediatric dental coverage is one of the 10 Essential Health Benefits?
plan! BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
Benton 1716 Military Rd. ®
dental
6
Agents are at the 12 Goodwill locations an average of 20 hours a week. Check your local store for hours of operation or go online to arkansasbluecross.com to find out more. Goodwill locations hosting Arkansas Blue Cross enrollment stations are:
“Goodwill gives people a hand up, not a hand out to prepare them for successful employment,” said Brian Itzkowitz, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Arkansas. “Educating and helping people access free or low-cost health care coverage aligns with our mission of improving the lives of individuals, families and communities.”
Dental coverage is not automatically included in government-approved health insurance plans. If you buy a health plan online through Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, you will be prompted to add dental coverage for children if you
Little Rock 7400 Scott Hamilton Rd. 109 Markham Park Dr.
Russellville 2100 North Arkansas Ave.
indicate that you are buying a family plan. And, if you receive a tax credit, it can be used to pay for pediatric dental coverage. If you are unsure of how to purchase dental insurance coverage or want to learn more, go online to arkansasbluecross.com, call an agent, or give us a call at 1-800-310-3778.
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
7
Arkansas Blue Cross
teams with Goodwill to enroll uninsured Arkansans
An Arkansas Blue Cross representative talks to a customer at the North Little Rock Goodwill store.
Do you have friends or family who need help enrolling in free or low-cost health insurance plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace? Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has teamed with Goodwill Industries of Arkansas® to provide assistance in 12 Goodwill retail stores in the state. You can shop for bargains and health insurance at the same time!
Certified insurance agents are manning Arkansas Blue Cross enrollment stations in the Goodwill retail stores. They can walk Arkansans through the enrollment process, answer questions and help them select a health plan. “We are honored to collaborate with Goodwill Industries of Arkansas in helping provide Arkansans with health insurance coverage,” said Karen
Mountain Home 759 Highway 62 East, Suite 102
Bryant 5914 Highway 5N
North Little Rock 6929 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Cabot 204 S. Rockwood Dr.
Paragould 2808 W. Kingshighway
Fayetteville 3105 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. 705 E. Appleby Rd.
Rogers 4301 South Dixieland Rd.
Raley, vice president of Communications and Product Development for Arkansas Blue Cross. “Arkansans without insurance face barriers in accessing quality health care and necessary medications. Our certified agents will guide those whom Goodwill serves every day through the eligibility and enrollment process so that they can get coverage to help take better care of themselves, which in turn
supports their ability to take good care of their families.”
Don’t forget A
Did you know that under the health care law, pediatric dental coverage is one of the 10 Essential Health Benefits?
plan! BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
Benton 1716 Military Rd. ®
dental
6
Agents are at the 12 Goodwill locations an average of 20 hours a week. Check your local store for hours of operation or go online to arkansasbluecross.com to find out more. Goodwill locations hosting Arkansas Blue Cross enrollment stations are:
“Goodwill gives people a hand up, not a hand out to prepare them for successful employment,” said Brian Itzkowitz, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Arkansas. “Educating and helping people access free or low-cost health care coverage aligns with our mission of improving the lives of individuals, families and communities.”
Dental coverage is not automatically included in government-approved health insurance plans. If you buy a health plan online through Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, you will be prompted to add dental coverage for children if you
Little Rock 7400 Scott Hamilton Rd. 109 Markham Park Dr.
Russellville 2100 North Arkansas Ave.
indicate that you are buying a family plan. And, if you receive a tax credit, it can be used to pay for pediatric dental coverage. If you are unsure of how to purchase dental insurance coverage or want to learn more, go online to arkansasbluecross.com, call an agent, or give us a call at 1-800-310-3778.
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
7
How does a headache send someone to Hollywood for a national award? It was a 10-year journey, but Donna Waugh’s transformation from an emergency room patient to the head of a dedicated canine search and rescue organization is a testament to her choice to live fearless. In 2004, Donna, a human resources consultant, experienced an intense headache that persisted for days. “I tried to ignore it, but I felt like my head had been hit with a sledgehammer. My border collie, Harrison, seemed very concerned. At his ‘insistence,’ I finally went to the emergency room.”
A member’s search to reclaim her life leads her to search and rescue
Donna had four blood clots in her brain. “The doctors said I might have a stroke any minute. We weren’t sure I would survive the weekend.” Donna’s clots were a complication from treatment for a benign but hemorrhaging tumor. She spent 11 days in the hospital to stabilize her condition, and then was in and out of the hospital for another six months. Doctors also discovered tumors on an ovary and a kidney. They feared she had cancer. “Late one night I was home alone, and I called the Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield nurse hotline at 3 a.m. I was scared. I thought I was going to die, and if I was, I wanted to know what it was going to be like. What sort of tests would be done? What options did I have? Would it hurt? The nurse, who was very empathetic, said, ‘We’ll talk however long you need to talk; I am here.’ It was such a great experience to have that resource. For me to get an appointment with a counselor would have taken at least a week, but calling that hotline was akin to reaching my hand out in the dark and finding someone to hold onto.” The tumors turned out to not be cancerous, but having to face her mortality again and again, Donna realized she could choose to live in fear or live fearlessly. “I was determined to not let an illness control my life, so I picked the only thing that combined my greatest fear (death) with my only sense of security ... my dog.” Donna found a K9 search and rescue (SAR) team and told them she was coming to join. “I’m sure they laughed. Few people
8
BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
can truly commit to the rigorous and expensive demands. And the human tragedy encountered with each search is the stuff of which nightmares are made.” But Donna was not deterred. “Being lost and alone – it was a physical representation of my health scares. I decided that I was going to come face to face with all of it, with my dog by my side, and I was going to take control of my life again.”
In October, Donna’s dog, John D, won the National 2013 Hero Dog Award in the search and rescue category (Harrison is enjoying retirement). John D was recognized for his cross training; he’s proven to find live people and human remains, and he can do land and water searches. He’s also involved in both UAMS cancer studies. Donna, John D and members of ASDA traveled to Hollywood for a taping of the show, which aired on the Hallmark Channel.
Donna drove up to her first search and rescue training wearing makeup and new designer outdoor clothing. After about 10 minutes of seeing other dogs smell an object and take off down the paths, Harrison was bored. “He yanked me to a ballcap lying on the ground, sniffed it, and off he ran. They ran across the park, beside a campground, through the middle of a ball game and right up into the bleachers. Harrison stopped in front of an elderly woman who reached down and pulled something from beneath her. “We have a find,” she said into a radio. “Who are you?” That was 10 years ago. Since then Donna has received SARTECH ll designation, various Federal Emergency Management Agency certifications and become the president of the American Scent Dog Association (ASDA). “I’ve trained three of my personal dogs for search and rescue, along with countless other canines on the team.”
Donna and her dogs searched through major water-logged debris after the floods in Nashville, Tenn.; cleared dangerous rubble piles after an F5 tornado hit Joplin, Mo.; and held the hands of mothers whose children may never come home. In 2010, Donna was asked to help the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) launch a study to determine if SAR dogs could be cross-trained to detect the scent of human cancer. There currently are 10 dogs involved in ovarian and thyroid cancer studies.
Pictured (from left): Terri Alpe, Donna Waugh, and CeCe Todd with dogs (from left) Glee, John D and Ziva.
“As John D’s mom, I had the privilege of accepting his award in front of the hundreds of people there and the millions who watched later,” Donna said. “It was, once again, easy to find courage with my fearless dog beside me. “And that’s what inspires me,” Donna said. “I still have health concerns, but I learned that I can’t live in fear or fear of the unknown. Instead, I choose to follow the lead of my dog by living bravely and bringing hope to others through the work of ASDA.”
Do you know an Arkansas Blue Cross member who chooses to live fearless? Tell us about them! We would love to feature them in a future issue of Blue & You. Email us at bnyou-ed@arkbluecross.com.
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
9
How does a headache send someone to Hollywood for a national award? It was a 10-year journey, but Donna Waugh’s transformation from an emergency room patient to the head of a dedicated canine search and rescue organization is a testament to her choice to live fearless. In 2004, Donna, a human resources consultant, experienced an intense headache that persisted for days. “I tried to ignore it, but I felt like my head had been hit with a sledgehammer. My border collie, Harrison, seemed very concerned. At his ‘insistence,’ I finally went to the emergency room.”
A member’s search to reclaim her life leads her to search and rescue
Donna had four blood clots in her brain. “The doctors said I might have a stroke any minute. We weren’t sure I would survive the weekend.” Donna’s clots were a complication from treatment for a benign but hemorrhaging tumor. She spent 11 days in the hospital to stabilize her condition, and then was in and out of the hospital for another six months. Doctors also discovered tumors on an ovary and a kidney. They feared she had cancer. “Late one night I was home alone, and I called the Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield nurse hotline at 3 a.m. I was scared. I thought I was going to die, and if I was, I wanted to know what it was going to be like. What sort of tests would be done? What options did I have? Would it hurt? The nurse, who was very empathetic, said, ‘We’ll talk however long you need to talk; I am here.’ It was such a great experience to have that resource. For me to get an appointment with a counselor would have taken at least a week, but calling that hotline was akin to reaching my hand out in the dark and finding someone to hold onto.” The tumors turned out to not be cancerous, but having to face her mortality again and again, Donna realized she could choose to live in fear or live fearlessly. “I was determined to not let an illness control my life, so I picked the only thing that combined my greatest fear (death) with my only sense of security ... my dog.” Donna found a K9 search and rescue (SAR) team and told them she was coming to join. “I’m sure they laughed. Few people
8
BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
can truly commit to the rigorous and expensive demands. And the human tragedy encountered with each search is the stuff of which nightmares are made.” But Donna was not deterred. “Being lost and alone – it was a physical representation of my health scares. I decided that I was going to come face to face with all of it, with my dog by my side, and I was going to take control of my life again.”
In October, Donna’s dog, John D, won the National 2013 Hero Dog Award in the search and rescue category (Harrison is enjoying retirement). John D was recognized for his cross training; he’s proven to find live people and human remains, and he can do land and water searches. He’s also involved in both UAMS cancer studies. Donna, John D and members of ASDA traveled to Hollywood for a taping of the show, which aired on the Hallmark Channel.
Donna drove up to her first search and rescue training wearing makeup and new designer outdoor clothing. After about 10 minutes of seeing other dogs smell an object and take off down the paths, Harrison was bored. “He yanked me to a ballcap lying on the ground, sniffed it, and off he ran. They ran across the park, beside a campground, through the middle of a ball game and right up into the bleachers. Harrison stopped in front of an elderly woman who reached down and pulled something from beneath her. “We have a find,” she said into a radio. “Who are you?” That was 10 years ago. Since then Donna has received SARTECH ll designation, various Federal Emergency Management Agency certifications and become the president of the American Scent Dog Association (ASDA). “I’ve trained three of my personal dogs for search and rescue, along with countless other canines on the team.”
Donna and her dogs searched through major water-logged debris after the floods in Nashville, Tenn.; cleared dangerous rubble piles after an F5 tornado hit Joplin, Mo.; and held the hands of mothers whose children may never come home. In 2010, Donna was asked to help the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) launch a study to determine if SAR dogs could be cross-trained to detect the scent of human cancer. There currently are 10 dogs involved in ovarian and thyroid cancer studies.
Pictured (from left): Terri Alpe, Donna Waugh, and CeCe Todd with dogs (from left) Glee, John D and Ziva.
“As John D’s mom, I had the privilege of accepting his award in front of the hundreds of people there and the millions who watched later,” Donna said. “It was, once again, easy to find courage with my fearless dog beside me. “And that’s what inspires me,” Donna said. “I still have health concerns, but I learned that I can’t live in fear or fear of the unknown. Instead, I choose to follow the lead of my dog by living bravely and bringing hope to others through the work of ASDA.”
Do you know an Arkansas Blue Cross member who chooses to live fearless? Tell us about them! We would love to feature them in a future issue of Blue & You. Email us at bnyou-ed@arkbluecross.com.
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
9
She went back again and again and again. In fact, Betty has only missed a handful of days at the fitness center in the past seven years.
A Complete
transformation
“She was quiet in the beginning,” said Kara. “We were all somewhat quiet. But over the past sixplus years, my class has grown to become a family. My class represents the perfect example of what SilverSneakers stands for, and I personally think Betty had a little something to do with it.” Now Betty is as much a fixture in the fitness center as the exercise machines.
A beneficiary of the SilverSneakers® Fitness Program, Betty Foster now is one of its top advocates The very first thing one notices when entering the SilverSneakers class in Jonesboro is the presence of Betty Foster. It is unavoidable — she lights up the room. Her smile, good humor and energy are absolutely contagious. It is no wonder she is the recipient of the 2013 Richard L. Swanson Inspiration Award, a national award given every year to the most inspiring member of the SilverSneakers program. “Betty Foster is one of the funniest and most inspiring people I know,” said Kara Fowler, the SilverSneakers instructor in Jonesboro. “From her silly sneeze, to her sassy
10
BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
jokes, to her dozens of pairs of socks and sneakers to match her outfits, she just always gives us something to smile about. That is why I nominated her for the Richard L. Swanson Inspiration Award.” What is much more difficult to believe is that Betty was not always like this. “You just wouldn’t believe how I was,” said Betty. “I was taking depression medication three times a day, and I couldn’t talk to anybody.” She didn’t even want to begin attending the SilverSneakers class when it first began in Jonesboro.
“When it first started my brother joined it immediately and he told me about it,” said Betty. “I was going through a stage of depression; it came and went quite a bit, and I couldn’t get up enough nerve to come. It took me two months to come because I knew nobody here. Finally, one day I said, ‘I’m going to do it.’” She found nothing but friendly faces when she arrived. “I came and they showed me around,” Betty said. “They showed me all the machines. And I did pretty good so I thought, ‘I’ll go back.’”
“I come three days to the SilverSneakers class and two days to the water aerobics class, so I’m here five days a week — every week,” said Betty. “I make all my doctors’ appointments early in the morning so I can come here. This is my life.” That SilverSneakers is her life is fitting, considering how it has improved her life. “I can talk to people, I can meet people, I can joke with them, I can be myself,” Betty said. “I’m off my depression medicine, and that means a lot. I know it’s helped me physically, but the mental aspect of this is the main thing for me.” According to Kara, Betty is not only a model member of SilverSneakers, but also a wonderful ambassador for the program.
Betty Foster (seated) and her SilverSneakers team in Jonesboro are led by class instructor Kara Fowler (back row, far left)
“She sets a perfect example for others,” Kara said. “She always tries to include others and even picks them up, if necessary, to ensure they are here. She’s always bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, cheering herself up and cheering up those around her. She’s overcome her depression and come out of her shell. She is a new person. I think she is a perfect representation of what the SilverSneakers fitness program is all about.”
I can talk to people,
I can meet people, I can joke with them,
I can be myself – BETTY FOSTER
Kara might be glad to know that Betty has every intention of staying with the program for the long haul. “I don’t plan on ever giving this up,” Betty said. “I’m afraid I’d slip back into depression if I gave this up. This is my life and I love it.”
For more information on SilverSneakers, call 1-888-423-4632, or visit silversneakers.com. SilverSneakers® is a registered mark of Healthways, Inc. The SilverSneakers® Fitness Program is provided by Healthways, Inc., an independent company that operates separately from Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
11
She went back again and again and again. In fact, Betty has only missed a handful of days at the fitness center in the past seven years.
A Complete
transformation
“She was quiet in the beginning,” said Kara. “We were all somewhat quiet. But over the past sixplus years, my class has grown to become a family. My class represents the perfect example of what SilverSneakers stands for, and I personally think Betty had a little something to do with it.” Now Betty is as much a fixture in the fitness center as the exercise machines.
A beneficiary of the SilverSneakers® Fitness Program, Betty Foster now is one of its top advocates The very first thing one notices when entering the SilverSneakers class in Jonesboro is the presence of Betty Foster. It is unavoidable — she lights up the room. Her smile, good humor and energy are absolutely contagious. It is no wonder she is the recipient of the 2013 Richard L. Swanson Inspiration Award, a national award given every year to the most inspiring member of the SilverSneakers program. “Betty Foster is one of the funniest and most inspiring people I know,” said Kara Fowler, the SilverSneakers instructor in Jonesboro. “From her silly sneeze, to her sassy
10
BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
jokes, to her dozens of pairs of socks and sneakers to match her outfits, she just always gives us something to smile about. That is why I nominated her for the Richard L. Swanson Inspiration Award.” What is much more difficult to believe is that Betty was not always like this. “You just wouldn’t believe how I was,” said Betty. “I was taking depression medication three times a day, and I couldn’t talk to anybody.” She didn’t even want to begin attending the SilverSneakers class when it first began in Jonesboro.
“When it first started my brother joined it immediately and he told me about it,” said Betty. “I was going through a stage of depression; it came and went quite a bit, and I couldn’t get up enough nerve to come. It took me two months to come because I knew nobody here. Finally, one day I said, ‘I’m going to do it.’” She found nothing but friendly faces when she arrived. “I came and they showed me around,” Betty said. “They showed me all the machines. And I did pretty good so I thought, ‘I’ll go back.’”
“I come three days to the SilverSneakers class and two days to the water aerobics class, so I’m here five days a week — every week,” said Betty. “I make all my doctors’ appointments early in the morning so I can come here. This is my life.” That SilverSneakers is her life is fitting, considering how it has improved her life. “I can talk to people, I can meet people, I can joke with them, I can be myself,” Betty said. “I’m off my depression medicine, and that means a lot. I know it’s helped me physically, but the mental aspect of this is the main thing for me.” According to Kara, Betty is not only a model member of SilverSneakers, but also a wonderful ambassador for the program.
Betty Foster (seated) and her SilverSneakers team in Jonesboro are led by class instructor Kara Fowler (back row, far left)
“She sets a perfect example for others,” Kara said. “She always tries to include others and even picks them up, if necessary, to ensure they are here. She’s always bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, cheering herself up and cheering up those around her. She’s overcome her depression and come out of her shell. She is a new person. I think she is a perfect representation of what the SilverSneakers fitness program is all about.”
I can talk to people,
I can meet people, I can joke with them,
I can be myself – BETTY FOSTER
Kara might be glad to know that Betty has every intention of staying with the program for the long haul. “I don’t plan on ever giving this up,” Betty said. “I’m afraid I’d slip back into depression if I gave this up. This is my life and I love it.”
For more information on SilverSneakers, call 1-888-423-4632, or visit silversneakers.com. SilverSneakers® is a registered mark of Healthways, Inc. The SilverSneakers® Fitness Program is provided by Healthways, Inc., an independent company that operates separately from Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
11
SMALL RESOLUTIONS, BIG IMPACT Happy New Year!
So what are your New Year’s resolutions? If you are one of the millions of Americans who rang in the New Year with a list of resolutions, you probably included eating healthier, getting more exercise, or just living a healthier lifestyle on that list.
Resolving to lose weight? If one of your resolutions was to lose weight, let us help! Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield can help you win at losing — FOR FREE!
Instead of setting big challenges for yourself this year, consider a new approach. Consider smaller, more manageable goals. Each small resolution can have a big impact on your health over the course of a year. Don’t be afraid to think small.
The Healthy Weigh education program is available to most of our members.* To join, complete and return the enrollment form included in this magazine. We’ve even provided a self-addressed, postage-paid envelope! It’s that easy! Members will receive free information each month by mail, including: • Guides on weight loss, fitness and maintaining a healthy weight • Information on fun activities • Recipes and menus
• Information on walking • Healthy eating tips for grandchildren • Strength training information • A portion-size placemat
• Tips on buying groceries and eating out
Auld Lang
Sigh 8%
Percent of people who achieve their New Year’s resolution each year*
Want to know more? Call the Health Education Program’s toll-free number: 1-800-686-2609. * The Healthy Weigh! health education program is available to most members of Arkansas Blue Cross, Health Advantage and BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas. Members with Medi-Pak ® supplement and Medi-Pak Rx health plans and Arkansas state and public school employees are not eligible. Some BlueAdvantage members may not be eligible. Check your benefits for more information or call Customer Service to find out.
12
BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
38%
Percent of Americans who absolutely never make New Year’s resolutions* *Source: University of Scranton Journal of Clinical Psychology (2012).
Eat one piece of fruit each day Drink one less soda per day Go for a 30 minute walk daily Clear your mind and breathe easy for five minutes Don’t go back for seconds
Talk to your Doc! At Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, we encourage you to pursue a healthy 2014. Just make sure your body is equipped to handle any new exercise routines. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends visiting your doctor before vigorous exercise if two or more of the following health conditions apply:
Top 5
Resolutions
IN 2013
Man older than 45; woman older than 55
1 Exercise more
Family history of heart disease before age 55
2 Improve finances
Smoker or quit smoking in the past six months Have not exercised in three or more months Overweight or obese High blood pressure or high cholesterol Impaired glucose tolerance (prediabetes)
3 Be healthier 4 Lose weight 5 Read more WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
13
SMALL RESOLUTIONS, BIG IMPACT Happy New Year!
So what are your New Year’s resolutions? If you are one of the millions of Americans who rang in the New Year with a list of resolutions, you probably included eating healthier, getting more exercise, or just living a healthier lifestyle on that list.
Resolving to lose weight? If one of your resolutions was to lose weight, let us help! Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield can help you win at losing — FOR FREE!
Instead of setting big challenges for yourself this year, consider a new approach. Consider smaller, more manageable goals. Each small resolution can have a big impact on your health over the course of a year. Don’t be afraid to think small.
The Healthy Weigh education program is available to most of our members.* To join, complete and return the enrollment form included in this magazine. We’ve even provided a self-addressed, postage-paid envelope! It’s that easy! Members will receive free information each month by mail, including: • Guides on weight loss, fitness and maintaining a healthy weight • Information on fun activities • Recipes and menus
• Information on walking • Healthy eating tips for grandchildren • Strength training information • A portion-size placemat
• Tips on buying groceries and eating out
Auld Lang
Sigh 8%
Percent of people who achieve their New Year’s resolution each year*
Want to know more? Call the Health Education Program’s toll-free number: 1-800-686-2609. * The Healthy Weigh! health education program is available to most members of Arkansas Blue Cross, Health Advantage and BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas. Members with Medi-Pak ® supplement and Medi-Pak Rx health plans and Arkansas state and public school employees are not eligible. Some BlueAdvantage members may not be eligible. Check your benefits for more information or call Customer Service to find out.
12
BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
38%
Percent of Americans who absolutely never make New Year’s resolutions* *Source: University of Scranton Journal of Clinical Psychology (2012).
Eat one piece of fruit each day Drink one less soda per day Go for a 30 minute walk daily Clear your mind and breathe easy for five minutes Don’t go back for seconds
Talk to your Doc! At Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, we encourage you to pursue a healthy 2014. Just make sure your body is equipped to handle any new exercise routines. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends visiting your doctor before vigorous exercise if two or more of the following health conditions apply:
Top 5
Resolutions
IN 2013
Man older than 45; woman older than 55
1 Exercise more
Family history of heart disease before age 55
2 Improve finances
Smoker or quit smoking in the past six months Have not exercised in three or more months Overweight or obese High blood pressure or high cholesterol Impaired glucose tolerance (prediabetes)
3 Be healthier 4 Lose weight 5 Read more WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
13
NEWS
University of Arkansas at Monticello honors Arkansas Blue Cross executive Martha Carlson, regional executive for Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s west central sales and service center in Fort Smith, was one of four graduates honored in October during the University of Arkansas at Monticello’s (UAM) Alumni Awards for Achievement and Merit annual banquet. Martha Carlson receives recognition from UAM Chancellor Jack Lassiter.
Arkansas Blue Cross recognized by InformationWeek as a top innovator for 10th consecutive year The awards are given to graduates who have had successful careers and who are positive reflections of the university. As a regional executive, Martha oversees operations in seven counties, including membership, doctor and hospital relations, customer service initiatives and all business sold in the region. Martha graduated from UAM in 1988 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. She now holds a master’s degree in business administration from Florida State University and recently completed the Walton Emerging Leaders Program at the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. “I am incredibly grateful for my UAM education as well as the experience I had there,” Martha said. “This award is validation of my dream of a better life through education.” Martha almost didn’t attend college, but a school counselor convinced her to go. UAM, she said, was a great fit. “It was close to home and many of the students there were like me, from small rural towns and also first generation college students. Not only did I receive a degree from UAM, but I met my husband of almost 27 years there and made lifelong friends.”
2014 Blue & You Fitness Challenge The Blue & You Fitness Challenge will kick off on March 1, 2014. Group and individual registration began in December 2013. It’s not too late to register – visit blueandyoufitnesschallenge-ark.com for more details.
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has been recognized by InformationWeek magazine as one of 500 “Top Innovators” in Information Technology (IT) in the country for the 10th consecutive year. According to Joseph Smith, senior vice president of Private Programs and chief information officer for Arkansas Blue Cross, a lot of groundwork took place before the company started gaining recognition. “This effort really goes back about 20 years,” he said. Some of the innovations that have earned recognition include: The Advanced Health Information Network (AHIN), which provides doctors and hospitals with free, secure, online access to patient eligibility and claims information. Online tools that give greater control over health care spending to policyholders who want to take advantage of health savings accounts (HSAs), health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) or flexible spending accounts (FSAs). The innovative strategy developed by Arkansas Blue Cross to comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
The IDC-10 Neutralizer, which is a program designed to smooth the transition to an updated system for the International Classification of Diseases. Beyond the 10 consecutive years of recognition by InformationWeek, Joe was honored as an “Elite 8” executive in 2011 by Insurance & Technology magazine, and the ICD-10 Neutralizer earned Arkansas Blue Cross it’s first ever U.S. patent. “There are a ton of people who have made it possible for us to win this award on an annual basis for the past 10 years,” said Joe. “Other companies may be bigger and have a lot more people and resources, but that does not mean they are bigger innovators. I’d stack our folks up against anyone in the country.”
Hundreds of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield employees participate in the annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure each October. As the largest corporate team, Arkansas Blue Cross employees were walking, running, handing out lip balm, delivering water or just cheering on the participants. It’s our way of showing that we “live fearless” for a cure for breast cancer.
The Blue & You Fitness Challenge is an annual threemonth physical activity contest designed to encourage healthy living. The Challenge encourages participants to exercise 30 minutes each day, most days of the week.
14
BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
15
NEWS
University of Arkansas at Monticello honors Arkansas Blue Cross executive Martha Carlson, regional executive for Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s west central sales and service center in Fort Smith, was one of four graduates honored in October during the University of Arkansas at Monticello’s (UAM) Alumni Awards for Achievement and Merit annual banquet. Martha Carlson receives recognition from UAM Chancellor Jack Lassiter.
Arkansas Blue Cross recognized by InformationWeek as a top innovator for 10th consecutive year The awards are given to graduates who have had successful careers and who are positive reflections of the university. As a regional executive, Martha oversees operations in seven counties, including membership, doctor and hospital relations, customer service initiatives and all business sold in the region. Martha graduated from UAM in 1988 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. She now holds a master’s degree in business administration from Florida State University and recently completed the Walton Emerging Leaders Program at the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. “I am incredibly grateful for my UAM education as well as the experience I had there,” Martha said. “This award is validation of my dream of a better life through education.” Martha almost didn’t attend college, but a school counselor convinced her to go. UAM, she said, was a great fit. “It was close to home and many of the students there were like me, from small rural towns and also first generation college students. Not only did I receive a degree from UAM, but I met my husband of almost 27 years there and made lifelong friends.”
2014 Blue & You Fitness Challenge The Blue & You Fitness Challenge will kick off on March 1, 2014. Group and individual registration began in December 2013. It’s not too late to register – visit blueandyoufitnesschallenge-ark.com for more details.
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has been recognized by InformationWeek magazine as one of 500 “Top Innovators” in Information Technology (IT) in the country for the 10th consecutive year. According to Joseph Smith, senior vice president of Private Programs and chief information officer for Arkansas Blue Cross, a lot of groundwork took place before the company started gaining recognition. “This effort really goes back about 20 years,” he said. Some of the innovations that have earned recognition include: The Advanced Health Information Network (AHIN), which provides doctors and hospitals with free, secure, online access to patient eligibility and claims information. Online tools that give greater control over health care spending to policyholders who want to take advantage of health savings accounts (HSAs), health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) or flexible spending accounts (FSAs). The innovative strategy developed by Arkansas Blue Cross to comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
The IDC-10 Neutralizer, which is a program designed to smooth the transition to an updated system for the International Classification of Diseases. Beyond the 10 consecutive years of recognition by InformationWeek, Joe was honored as an “Elite 8” executive in 2011 by Insurance & Technology magazine, and the ICD-10 Neutralizer earned Arkansas Blue Cross it’s first ever U.S. patent. “There are a ton of people who have made it possible for us to win this award on an annual basis for the past 10 years,” said Joe. “Other companies may be bigger and have a lot more people and resources, but that does not mean they are bigger innovators. I’d stack our folks up against anyone in the country.”
Hundreds of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield employees participate in the annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure each October. As the largest corporate team, Arkansas Blue Cross employees were walking, running, handing out lip balm, delivering water or just cheering on the participants. It’s our way of showing that we “live fearless” for a cure for breast cancer.
The Blue & You Fitness Challenge is an annual threemonth physical activity contest designed to encourage healthy living. The Challenge encourages participants to exercise 30 minutes each day, most days of the week.
14
BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
15
How much WILL your medical procedure cost YOU? Have you ever wondered, “How much will my daughter’s tonsillectomy cost?”(Or any other procedure?) The number of variables makes it a complicated question to answer, but as an Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield or Health Advantage member, you have a quick and easy way to estimate your costs for 359 different procedures — and soon to be more! The Treatment Cost Calculator is an established tool with an exciting update that will help you budget for your health care costs. To access it, log in to My Blueprint, our online member self-service website through arkansasbluecross.com or healthadvantage-hmo.com, and select “estimate your treatment cost.” Then simply choose which person on your policy is seeking treatment, enter your ZIP code and select a procedure. In the case of a tonsillectomy, you would select “Ear, Nose and Throat” treatments and choose costs for “Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy.”
16
BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
Find out
online!
Advantage
The My Blueprint site can be accessed by visiting arkansasbluecross.com, selecting the “members” tab and then choosing the “My Blueprint” button. You will need your member ID to create an account. After setting up your personal account, you will find that the new My Blueprint site is…
members PERSONAL
– Karen Raley Vice President of Communications & Product Development
Previously, the tool would only display a range of minimum and maximum amounts and the average cost of a procedure before benefits were factored. (These figures are based on the claims history of health care providers.) Now, the tool also pulls information from your plan and benefits to determine coverage and how much of your deductible has been met. It even estimates your potential out-of-pocket cost!
If you are one of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s Medi-Pak Advantage members, we have created a secure website just for you! Now you can get personalized information about your benefits any time you want!
Medi-Pak®
We wanted health care costs to be more transparent to our members.
The tool will list all providers who perform tonsillectomies in the area you chose. If there are none, the tool automatically will expand the search to find the nearest health care provider that does.
new website opens for
“We understand that sometimes the household budget sets priorities, so we wanted health care costs to be more transparent to our members,” said Karen Raley, vice president of Communications & Product Development. “The estimates of this calculator are procedure-, plan- and provider-specific, so we hope it makes finding affordable health care easier. The number of searchable treatments is expected to increase to 1,632 in a few months, which means it’s a growing resource for our valued members.”
You can review a summary of benefits and coverage, search for covered drugs and calculate your prescription costs. You also can find a Personal Health Record where you can review your medical history.
FUNCTIONAL Medicare, pharmacy and Arkansas Blue Cross forms are available for easy downloading and printing. You also can search a directory of in-network doctors and hospitals in your area.
INFORMATIONAL You can view videos with health and wellness tips from Arkansas Blue Cross’ very own medical directors, as well as find healthy versions of your favorite recipes. You can learn about programs like SilverSneakers, the nation’s leading exercise program designed exclusively for older adults. The site also features an archive of Ageless issues, the Arkansas Blue Cross publication dedicated to Medi-Pak Advantage members.
Come visit My Blueprint online to make the most out of your benefits!
The bottom line is, we want you to know how much a procedure may cost before you go to the hospital.
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
17
How much WILL your medical procedure cost YOU? Have you ever wondered, “How much will my daughter’s tonsillectomy cost?”(Or any other procedure?) The number of variables makes it a complicated question to answer, but as an Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield or Health Advantage member, you have a quick and easy way to estimate your costs for 359 different procedures — and soon to be more! The Treatment Cost Calculator is an established tool with an exciting update that will help you budget for your health care costs. To access it, log in to My Blueprint, our online member self-service website through arkansasbluecross.com or healthadvantage-hmo.com, and select “estimate your treatment cost.” Then simply choose which person on your policy is seeking treatment, enter your ZIP code and select a procedure. In the case of a tonsillectomy, you would select “Ear, Nose and Throat” treatments and choose costs for “Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy.”
16
BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
Find out
online!
Advantage
The My Blueprint site can be accessed by visiting arkansasbluecross.com, selecting the “members” tab and then choosing the “My Blueprint” button. You will need your member ID to create an account. After setting up your personal account, you will find that the new My Blueprint site is…
members PERSONAL
– Karen Raley Vice President of Communications & Product Development
Previously, the tool would only display a range of minimum and maximum amounts and the average cost of a procedure before benefits were factored. (These figures are based on the claims history of health care providers.) Now, the tool also pulls information from your plan and benefits to determine coverage and how much of your deductible has been met. It even estimates your potential out-of-pocket cost!
If you are one of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s Medi-Pak Advantage members, we have created a secure website just for you! Now you can get personalized information about your benefits any time you want!
Medi-Pak®
We wanted health care costs to be more transparent to our members.
The tool will list all providers who perform tonsillectomies in the area you chose. If there are none, the tool automatically will expand the search to find the nearest health care provider that does.
new website opens for
“We understand that sometimes the household budget sets priorities, so we wanted health care costs to be more transparent to our members,” said Karen Raley, vice president of Communications & Product Development. “The estimates of this calculator are procedure-, plan- and provider-specific, so we hope it makes finding affordable health care easier. The number of searchable treatments is expected to increase to 1,632 in a few months, which means it’s a growing resource for our valued members.”
You can review a summary of benefits and coverage, search for covered drugs and calculate your prescription costs. You also can find a Personal Health Record where you can review your medical history.
FUNCTIONAL Medicare, pharmacy and Arkansas Blue Cross forms are available for easy downloading and printing. You also can search a directory of in-network doctors and hospitals in your area.
INFORMATIONAL You can view videos with health and wellness tips from Arkansas Blue Cross’ very own medical directors, as well as find healthy versions of your favorite recipes. You can learn about programs like SilverSneakers, the nation’s leading exercise program designed exclusively for older adults. The site also features an archive of Ageless issues, the Arkansas Blue Cross publication dedicated to Medi-Pak Advantage members.
Come visit My Blueprint online to make the most out of your benefits!
The bottom line is, we want you to know how much a procedure may cost before you go to the hospital.
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
17
vaccinate?
We typically associate tetanus with stepping on a rusty nail. And, because we do, we have a tendency to wait until we step on a rusty nail to get a tetanus shot. But, did you know tetanus is a disease caused by bacteria that live in dust, animal waste and even soil? That means any time you get a cut, burn, splinter, puncture, insect bite or scrape, your wound could become infected with these bacteria. Just consider how frequently you get small cuts and scrapes while gardening and how easy it is for dirt to get in the wound.
True or False: It’s already January, so it’s too late for me to get the flu vaccine.
False. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the first flu vaccine shipments begin in late July and continue until all products are distributed. However, the peak time for influenza activity isn’t until January and stays active through winter and often well into spring. Since it takes about two weeks for your body to develop the antibodies, you can still get the vaccine. If you and your family members are ages 6 months or older and in good health, you should visit your doctor, pharmacist or a clinic to receive the flu vaccine and protect your health!
The incubation period for tetanus is seven to eight days. That means by the time you begin to see symptoms you may have forgotten that cut you got in the garden last week. So, it helps to know the symptoms — just in case.
Common signs of tetanus are: Spasms and stiffness in your jaw muscles Stiffness of your neck muscles Difficulty swallowing
In addition, you could experience fever, sweating, elevated blood pressure or a rapid heart rate. In fact, it is possible for the bacteria to build up to the point where your breathing is severely hindered and could — in extreme cases — result in death. Most people get an initial tetanus shot when they are 6 years old. Doctors recommend a booster shot every 10 years after that. If your last tetanus shot was when you stepped on that nail way back when, or if you can’t remember your last shot, you might want to consider getting a booster shot.
18
BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
Is it too late TO
Stiffness of your abdominal muscles Painful body spasms lasting for several minutes, usually triggered by a draft, loud noise, physical touch or light
Tetanus is a disease caused by bacteria that live in dust, animal waste and even soil.
So, when was your last tetanus shot?
Percentage of visits for Influenza-like illness
When was your last tetanus shot?
2012-2013 FLU SEASON
8– 7– 6– 5– 4– 3– 2– 1– 0– OCT. 2012
NOV. 2012
DEC. 2012
JAN. 2012
FEB. 2012
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
CUSTOMER SERVICE NUMBERS May we help? For customer service, please call:
LITTLE ROCK Number (501)
TOLL FREE Number
Medi-Pak® members 378-3062 1-800-338-2312 ® Medi-Pak Advantage members 1-877-233-7022 ® Medi-Pak Rx members 1-866-390-3369 Arkansas Blue Cross members 378-2010 1-800-238-8379 • Pharmacy questions 1-800-863-5561 • Specialty Rx pharmacy questions 1-866-295-2779 Metallic Plan (Gold, Silver, Bronze, Catastrophic) members 1-800-800-4298 • Pharmacy questions 1-800-969-3983 Health Advantage members 378-2363 1-800-843-1329 • Pharmacy questions 1-800-863-5567 BlueAdvantage members 378-3600 1-888-872-2531 • Pharmacy questions 1-888-293-3748 Federal Employee members 378-2531 1-800-482-6655
Looking for health or dental insurance? We can help! For individuals, families For employer groups*
378-2937 1-800-392-2583 378-3070 1-800-421-1112
*Arkansas Blue Cross, Health Advantage and BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas
Prefer to speak with someone close to home? Call or visit one of our offices near you: • ArkansasBlue
— Little Rock 2612 S. Shackleford Rd., Suite J 1-501-378-2222
• Fayetteville
516 East Millsap Rd., Suite 103
1-800-817-7726
• Fort
Smith 3501 Old Greenwood Rd., Suite 5 1-866-254-9117
• Hot
Springs 100 Greenwood Ave., Suite C
• Jonesboro
707 East Matthews Ave.
• Little
Rock 601 Gaines Street
• ArkansasBlue
— Pine Bluff 509 Mallard Loop Drive
• Texarkana
1710 Arkansas Boulevard
1-800-588-5733 1-800-299-4124 1-800-421-1112 1-800-236-0369 1-800-470-9621
Visit our websites for more information:
arkansasbluecross.com • healthadvantage-hmo.com blueadvantagearkansas.com blueandyoufoundationarkansas.org
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
19
vaccinate?
We typically associate tetanus with stepping on a rusty nail. And, because we do, we have a tendency to wait until we step on a rusty nail to get a tetanus shot. But, did you know tetanus is a disease caused by bacteria that live in dust, animal waste and even soil? That means any time you get a cut, burn, splinter, puncture, insect bite or scrape, your wound could become infected with these bacteria. Just consider how frequently you get small cuts and scrapes while gardening and how easy it is for dirt to get in the wound.
True or False: It’s already January, so it’s too late for me to get the flu vaccine.
False. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the first flu vaccine shipments begin in late July and continue until all products are distributed. However, the peak time for influenza activity isn’t until January and stays active through winter and often well into spring. Since it takes about two weeks for your body to develop the antibodies, you can still get the vaccine. If you and your family members are ages 6 months or older and in good health, you should visit your doctor, pharmacist or a clinic to receive the flu vaccine and protect your health!
The incubation period for tetanus is seven to eight days. That means by the time you begin to see symptoms you may have forgotten that cut you got in the garden last week. So, it helps to know the symptoms — just in case.
Common signs of tetanus are: Spasms and stiffness in your jaw muscles Stiffness of your neck muscles Difficulty swallowing
In addition, you could experience fever, sweating, elevated blood pressure or a rapid heart rate. In fact, it is possible for the bacteria to build up to the point where your breathing is severely hindered and could — in extreme cases — result in death. Most people get an initial tetanus shot when they are 6 years old. Doctors recommend a booster shot every 10 years after that. If your last tetanus shot was when you stepped on that nail way back when, or if you can’t remember your last shot, you might want to consider getting a booster shot.
18
BLUE & YOU WINTER 2014
Is it too late TO
Stiffness of your abdominal muscles Painful body spasms lasting for several minutes, usually triggered by a draft, loud noise, physical touch or light
Tetanus is a disease caused by bacteria that live in dust, animal waste and even soil.
So, when was your last tetanus shot?
Percentage of visits for Influenza-like illness
When was your last tetanus shot?
2012-2013 FLU SEASON
8– 7– 6– 5– 4– 3– 2– 1– 0– OCT. 2012
NOV. 2012
DEC. 2012
JAN. 2012
FEB. 2012
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
CUSTOMER SERVICE NUMBERS May we help? For customer service, please call:
LITTLE ROCK Number (501)
TOLL FREE Number
Medi-Pak® members 378-3062 1-800-338-2312 ® Medi-Pak Advantage members 1-877-233-7022 ® Medi-Pak Rx members 1-866-390-3369 Arkansas Blue Cross members 378-2010 1-800-238-8379 • Pharmacy questions 1-800-863-5561 • Specialty Rx pharmacy questions 1-866-295-2779 Metallic Plan (Gold, Silver, Bronze, Catastrophic) members 1-800-800-4298 • Pharmacy questions 1-800-969-3983 Health Advantage members 378-2363 1-800-843-1329 • Pharmacy questions 1-800-863-5567 BlueAdvantage members 378-3600 1-888-872-2531 • Pharmacy questions 1-888-293-3748 Federal Employee members 378-2531 1-800-482-6655
Looking for health or dental insurance? We can help! For individuals, families For employer groups*
378-2937 1-800-392-2583 378-3070 1-800-421-1112
*Arkansas Blue Cross, Health Advantage and BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas
Prefer to speak with someone close to home? Call or visit one of our offices near you: • ArkansasBlue
— Little Rock 2612 S. Shackleford Rd., Suite J 1-501-378-2222
• Fayetteville
516 East Millsap Rd., Suite 103
1-800-817-7726
• Fort
Smith 3501 Old Greenwood Rd., Suite 5 1-866-254-9117
• Hot
Springs 100 Greenwood Ave., Suite C
• Jonesboro
707 East Matthews Ave.
• Little
Rock 601 Gaines Street
• ArkansasBlue
— Pine Bluff 509 Mallard Loop Drive
• Texarkana
1710 Arkansas Boulevard
1-800-588-5733 1-800-299-4124 1-800-421-1112 1-800-236-0369 1-800-470-9621
Visit our websites for more information:
arkansasbluecross.com • healthadvantage-hmo.com blueadvantagearkansas.com blueandyoufoundationarkansas.org
WINTER 2014 BLUE & YOU
19
WINTER 2014 A publication for the policyholders of the Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield family of companies
Foundation offers
$1,000
mini grants to
healthimprovement
programs Does your organization need some support for its community healthimprovement project? The Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas might be able to help.
Any 501(c)(3) public charity, public school, governmental agency or nonprofit hospital in Arkansas is eligible to apply. Churches also are eligible if their health-improvement program reaches beyond its own congregation. Grants are not made to individuals. Grant guidelines and online applications can be found at BlueAndYouFoundationArkansas.org.
page
8
During the months of February through April, the Blue & You Foundation is accepting applications for $1,000 mini grants to support health-improvement projects in Arkansas.
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