Summer 2015 A publication for the policyholders of the Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield family of companies
BOO W I T H
Our second annual “Boo with Blue” will be held at the Museum of Discovery in Little Rock, Friday, October 2, from 6-9 p.m. “Boo with Blue” is free to Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield members. Just show your health insurance ID card for admission. Non-members are invited to stop by any local ArkansasBlue store to pick up free tickets to the Friday, October 2 event starting in September.
BLUE!
6-9 p.m.
Communities all across Arkansas are enjoying new facilities for running, walking and even hiking thanks to the generosity of the Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas.
Are Vaccines Safe?
Mending Jaxon’s Heart
Financial Privacy Information
page
page
page
5
MPI 3576 7/15
10
18
Jaxon McGarrah plays with his mother, Ashley McGarrah. Read how this family has handled his congenital heart defect with the help of Arkansas Blue Cross on page 10.
3
- Out of the Blue
4
- Be part of the community immunity
12
- “Hit the Trail” with the Blue & You Foundation
- Get immunized at zero cost
14
- Get ready for the trails
5
- Are vaccines safe?
16
- National Walk @ Lunch Day!
6
- Do you have a family doctor?
7
- Welcome to Advantage Primary Care
17
8
- Get immediate access to your health care information through My Blueprint
18
- Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield Financial Information Privacy Notice
9
- GeoBlue – Take Blue with you! - Another way to buy diabetic supplies
19
- Customer Service Numbers
- Living Fearlessly: Mending Jaxon’s heart
20
- Boo with Blue!
10
- Central Arkansas Heart Walk - Arkansas needs more nurses - Arkansas Arts Center’s Children’s Theatre
Summer 2015
EDITOR: Jennifer Gordon – bnyou-ed@arkbluecross.com • DESIGNER: Ryan Kravitz • PHOTOGRAPHER: Chip Bayer CONTRIBUTORS: Chip Bayer, Ben McVay and Alex Roberts VICE PRESIDENT of CORPORATE MARKETING: Karen Raley DIRECTOR of CORPORATE MARKETING: Kelly Whitehorn
on the cover BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
Walkers enjoy one of 15 trails and tracks funded by the Blue & You Foundation. See more on page 12.
For nearly 70 years, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has been trusted by Arkansans for affordable and reliable health insurance coverage, and it’s our privilege to count one in three people in our state as customers. Included in that number are thousands of individuals who gained coverage through the expansion of Medicaid—called the Private Option—made possible by the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This summer, a task force composed of members of the Arkansas Legislature is working to determine the future of this program, as well as the way we manage care for other low-income and more vulnerable residents of our state, such as people with disabilities. Because of our long history in Arkansas and the role we’ve played in implementing the federal requirements of the ACA, we have a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by the Health Care Reform Task Force as they work to improve our health care system. As the task force continues its important work, I encourage its members to consider several important points: 1. It is hard to argue that Medicaid expansion hasn’t been good for the state. It has created jobs for many Arkansans, including 200 new positions at Arkansas Blue Cross. It has injected a billion federal dollars into our local economy and the impact will be multiplied the way all such infusions are. It has helped hospitals in the state get on more solid financial footing by dramatically decreasing the amount of uncompensated care they provide, and taken the pressure off of taxpayers who otherwise foot the bill for the uninsured who are forced to get their health care at the emergency room.
Even when the state begins to absorb 10 percent of the cost of the program in 2020 — an important and central issue in the debate about its continuation — it’s important to remember that Arkansas will be getting nine dollars back in economic benefit for every one dollar we invest. Not a bad return on investment. Let’s make sure that all Arkansans continue to benefit from this kind of economic boon by supporting some form of coverage expansion.
2. We hope legislators look toward a free enterprise solution – one that is not overly controlled by the federal government and one that allows the market to provide Arkansans with high-quality, cost-efficient health coverage. Lawmakers took an enterprising approach when crafting the private option and many have since noted opportunities for improvement. An example would be removing incentives to drive unnecessary costs. Currently, the Private Option does not require patients to pay a copayment for a visit to the emergency room (a very expensive place to receive care). Yet the Private Option does require policyholders to pay a copayment when they visit a family practice doctor (a very affordable and usually more appropriate place to receive care). Commonsense solutions that address issues like these will go a long way in achieving real cost savings for the program, while giving people greater incentives for taking personal responsibility and making better health care choices. That’s how private business manages cost and this program should, too.
At the same time, free markets recognize that doctors and hospitals will not provide medical services if they cannot cover their costs and make a reasonable margin. For too long, our members, as well as other Arkansans who have commercial insurance, have paid a “hidden tax” that is included in their health insurance premiums. This hidden tax takes the form of doctors and hospitals charging more than is required to cover the care of commercially
“OUT OF THE BLUE”
Continued on page 19
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
Jaxon McGarrah plays with his mother, Ashley McGarrah. Read how this family has handled his congenital heart defect with the help of Arkansas Blue Cross on page 10.
3
- Out of the Blue
4
- Be part of the community immunity
12
- “Hit the Trail” with the Blue & You Foundation
- Get immunized at zero cost
14
- Get ready for the trails
5
- Are vaccines safe?
16
- National Walk @ Lunch Day!
6
- Do you have a family doctor?
7
- Welcome to Advantage Primary Care
17
8
- Get immediate access to your health care information through My Blueprint
18
- Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield Financial Information Privacy Notice
9
- GeoBlue – Take Blue with you! - Another way to buy diabetic supplies
19
- Customer Service Numbers
- Living Fearlessly: Mending Jaxon’s heart
20
- Boo with Blue!
10
- Central Arkansas Heart Walk - Arkansas needs more nurses - Arkansas Arts Center’s Children’s Theatre
Summer 2015
EDITOR: Jennifer Gordon – bnyou-ed@arkbluecross.com • DESIGNER: Ryan Kravitz • PHOTOGRAPHER: Chip Bayer CONTRIBUTORS: Chip Bayer, Ben McVay and Alex Roberts VICE PRESIDENT of CORPORATE MARKETING: Karen Raley DIRECTOR of CORPORATE MARKETING: Kelly Whitehorn
on the cover BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
Walkers enjoy one of 15 trails and tracks funded by the Blue & You Foundation. See more on page 12.
For nearly 70 years, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has been trusted by Arkansans for affordable and reliable health insurance coverage, and it’s our privilege to count one in three people in our state as customers. Included in that number are thousands of individuals who gained coverage through the expansion of Medicaid—called the Private Option—made possible by the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This summer, a task force composed of members of the Arkansas Legislature is working to determine the future of this program, as well as the way we manage care for other low-income and more vulnerable residents of our state, such as people with disabilities. Because of our long history in Arkansas and the role we’ve played in implementing the federal requirements of the ACA, we have a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by the Health Care Reform Task Force as they work to improve our health care system. As the task force continues its important work, I encourage its members to consider several important points: 1. It is hard to argue that Medicaid expansion hasn’t been good for the state. It has created jobs for many Arkansans, including 200 new positions at Arkansas Blue Cross. It has injected a billion federal dollars into our local economy and the impact will be multiplied the way all such infusions are. It has helped hospitals in the state get on more solid financial footing by dramatically decreasing the amount of uncompensated care they provide, and taken the pressure off of taxpayers who otherwise foot the bill for the uninsured who are forced to get their health care at the emergency room.
Even when the state begins to absorb 10 percent of the cost of the program in 2020 — an important and central issue in the debate about its continuation — it’s important to remember that Arkansas will be getting nine dollars back in economic benefit for every one dollar we invest. Not a bad return on investment. Let’s make sure that all Arkansans continue to benefit from this kind of economic boon by supporting some form of coverage expansion.
2. We hope legislators look toward a free enterprise solution – one that is not overly controlled by the federal government and one that allows the market to provide Arkansans with high-quality, cost-efficient health coverage. Lawmakers took an enterprising approach when crafting the private option and many have since noted opportunities for improvement. An example would be removing incentives to drive unnecessary costs. Currently, the Private Option does not require patients to pay a copayment for a visit to the emergency room (a very expensive place to receive care). Yet the Private Option does require policyholders to pay a copayment when they visit a family practice doctor (a very affordable and usually more appropriate place to receive care). Commonsense solutions that address issues like these will go a long way in achieving real cost savings for the program, while giving people greater incentives for taking personal responsibility and making better health care choices. That’s how private business manages cost and this program should, too.
At the same time, free markets recognize that doctors and hospitals will not provide medical services if they cannot cover their costs and make a reasonable margin. For too long, our members, as well as other Arkansans who have commercial insurance, have paid a “hidden tax” that is included in their health insurance premiums. This hidden tax takes the form of doctors and hospitals charging more than is required to cover the care of commercially
“OUT OF THE BLUE”
Continued on page 19
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
ARE VACCINES
SAFE?
Be part of the Community The recent multi-state outbreak of measles sparked concern about when — and if — people are getting immunizations. In 2000, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) declared that the measles virus had been removed from the United States as it no longer had a constant presence in the country. But, communities of people who refuse to vaccinate are leaving the nation vulnerable to the re-establishment of the measles and other viruses. When a critical portion of a community is immunized against a contagious disease, most members of the community are protected against that disease because there is little opportunity for an outbreak. Even those who are not eligible for
{
Immunity
certain vaccines — such as infants, pregnant women, or people who have weak immune systems — get some protection because the spread of contagious disease is contained. This is known as “community immunity.” In the illustration to the right, the top box depicts a community in which no one is immunized and an outbreak occurs. In the middle box, some of the population is immunized but not enough to establish community immunity. In the bottom box, a critical portion of the population is immunized, protecting most community members. The principle of community immunity applies to control of a variety of contagious
diseases, including the flu, measles, mumps, a stomach virus called rotavirus and types of pneumonia. “Unless your child has an immune deficiency as noted by his or her physician, a decision not to immunize your child is really a decision to allow your child to get one of these dreaded and potentially disabling or deadly diseases,” said Robert Griffin, senior vice president and chief medical officer for Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. “Early in my medical career I took care of many of these children who were institutionalized due to the complications of conditions that could be prevented today. Sadly, these illnesses appear to be returning as parents choose not to immunize their children.”
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield and its family of companies just made life a little easier. If you, or your dependents, are under age 65, you now can get important immunizations at your local pharmacy for no cost. Check out our list of vaccines and visit your local pharmacy for a fast, free vaccination. Here are some perks for going to your pharmacist for vaccinations:
Get immunized
zero at
cost
Prevent serious diseases No doctor’s appointment necessary
Skip the waiting room Zero cost to you
Don’t wait! Talk to your pharmacist today about the immunizations that may benefit you.
get immunized
It’s less expensive to prevent a disease than to treat one. Immunizations protect you from serious diseases and prevent the spread of others. By offering immunizations at the pharmacy, Arkansas Blue Cross makes it easier for you and your family to be immunized. This service is not available to members with Medicare health plans.
4
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
Absolutely. Rumors linking vaccines to autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) likely began because symptoms of ASD typically appear in the second year of life, not long after vaccines are given. While the environmental causes of ASD are largely unknown, studies by the Institute of Medicine and the American Academy of Pediatrics, among others, have specifically shown that there is no relationship between vaccines and autism. The medical community considers vaccines to be very safe. The most common side effects are fever and mild rash.
If you are covered under a self-funded health plan administered by BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas, you should check with your plan administrator to find out if these benefits are available to you.
Members with Medi-Pak Advantage and Medi-Pak supplement health plans have different benefits for immunizations that may not include 100 percent coverage. Please call customer service for more information.
GET VACCINATED If you or your children aren’t vaccinated, you can get the vaccinations listed below for free at your local pharmacy. It’s never too late. Source: cdc.gov
Visit your local pharmacy vaccines* Haemophilus Influenzae Type b (Hib) Hepatitis A Hepatitis B Herpes Zoster / Shingles Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Inactivated Poliovirus (polio) Influenza (flu) Children
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Meningococcal Pneumococcal Rotavirus Tetanus Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis (Tdap) Varicella (chickenpox)
Adults
* Pharmacists in Arkansas can vaccinate children age 7 and older. Those between the ages of 7 and 18 require a prescription from a physician for all immunizations except for the seasonal flu shot.
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
5
ARE VACCINES
SAFE?
Be part of the Community The recent multi-state outbreak of measles sparked concern about when — and if — people are getting immunizations. In 2000, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) declared that the measles virus had been removed from the United States as it no longer had a constant presence in the country. But, communities of people who refuse to vaccinate are leaving the nation vulnerable to the re-establishment of the measles and other viruses. When a critical portion of a community is immunized against a contagious disease, most members of the community are protected against that disease because there is little opportunity for an outbreak. Even those who are not eligible for
{
Immunity
certain vaccines — such as infants, pregnant women, or people who have weak immune systems — get some protection because the spread of contagious disease is contained. This is known as “community immunity.” In the illustration to the right, the top box depicts a community in which no one is immunized and an outbreak occurs. In the middle box, some of the population is immunized but not enough to establish community immunity. In the bottom box, a critical portion of the population is immunized, protecting most community members. The principle of community immunity applies to control of a variety of contagious
diseases, including the flu, measles, mumps, a stomach virus called rotavirus and types of pneumonia. “Unless your child has an immune deficiency as noted by his or her physician, a decision not to immunize your child is really a decision to allow your child to get one of these dreaded and potentially disabling or deadly diseases,” said Robert Griffin, senior vice president and chief medical officer for Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. “Early in my medical career I took care of many of these children who were institutionalized due to the complications of conditions that could be prevented today. Sadly, these illnesses appear to be returning as parents choose not to immunize their children.”
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield and its family of companies just made life a little easier. If you, or your dependents, are under age 65, you now can get important immunizations at your local pharmacy for no cost. Check out our list of vaccines and visit your local pharmacy for a fast, free vaccination. Here are some perks for going to your pharmacist for vaccinations:
Get immunized
zero at
cost
Prevent serious diseases No doctor’s appointment necessary
Skip the waiting room Zero cost to you
Don’t wait! Talk to your pharmacist today about the immunizations that may benefit you.
get immunized
It’s less expensive to prevent a disease than to treat one. Immunizations protect you from serious diseases and prevent the spread of others. By offering immunizations at the pharmacy, Arkansas Blue Cross makes it easier for you and your family to be immunized. This service is not available to members with Medicare health plans.
4
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
Absolutely. Rumors linking vaccines to autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) likely began because symptoms of ASD typically appear in the second year of life, not long after vaccines are given. While the environmental causes of ASD are largely unknown, studies by the Institute of Medicine and the American Academy of Pediatrics, among others, have specifically shown that there is no relationship between vaccines and autism. The medical community considers vaccines to be very safe. The most common side effects are fever and mild rash.
If you are covered under a self-funded health plan administered by BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas, you should check with your plan administrator to find out if these benefits are available to you.
Members with Medi-Pak Advantage and Medi-Pak supplement health plans have different benefits for immunizations that may not include 100 percent coverage. Please call customer service for more information.
GET VACCINATED If you or your children aren’t vaccinated, you can get the vaccinations listed below for free at your local pharmacy. It’s never too late. Source: cdc.gov
Visit your local pharmacy vaccines* Haemophilus Influenzae Type b (Hib) Hepatitis A Hepatitis B Herpes Zoster / Shingles Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Inactivated Poliovirus (polio) Influenza (flu) Children
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Meningococcal Pneumococcal Rotavirus Tetanus Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis (Tdap) Varicella (chickenpox)
Adults
* Pharmacists in Arkansas can vaccinate children age 7 and older. Those between the ages of 7 and 18 require a prescription from a physician for all immunizations except for the seasonal flu shot.
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
5
welcome to
Advantage Primary Care is a new primary care clinic in Lowell that provides health care exclusively for members of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield and its family of companies. Washington Regional Medical Center staffs and operates the new clinic.
Do you have a
family
doctor?
At Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, we want you to pick a family doctor to oversee your health. In fact, studies have shown that people with a family doctor have lower overall health care costs and are happier with their care.
Why is this important now ?
In the past, you may never have had any problems finding a doctor. However, after the new health care law passed, thousands of Arkansans signed up for health insurance for the very first time. This made an already crowded health care system even more crowded.
1.
A family doctor may help improve your health. Your family doctor will make sure you and your family get the care you need, including checkups to keep you healthy.
Arkansas Blue Cross wants to make sure you have a family doctor (or other primary care doctor, like a pediatrician or internist). If you’ve already chosen a family doctor, we would like to say thank you. You’ve taken an important step in staying healthy.
To select a family doctor: • Go to the website for your health plan: arkansasbluecross.com, healthadvantage-hmo.com or blueadvantagearkansas.com.
2. A family doctor may help you lower your out-of-pocket costs. Getting care from a family doctor is a smart way to spend your money on health care.
• Go to the “Members” drop-down menu at the top of the page and select “Find a Doctor.” • Enter your member ID number or the type of health plan you have. • Choose to search by doctor’s name, location, specialty or hospital affiliation. When you have selected a family doctor, call and let us know, and we will update our records.
6
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
3to have REASONS a family doctor
3. A family doctor can save you time. No more waiting in a crowded emergency room when you’re sick!
Advantage Primary Care is a patientcentered medical home (PCMH). That means the medical team will identify services needed to improve your health and treat you as an individual. Patientcentered medical homes equip patients with the knowledge and tools they need to proactively manage their conditions and limit acute health care problems. They use evidence-based guidelines to drive care and track treatment results to improve patients’ care and experience. At Advantage Primary Care you get more one-on-one time with the physician, you can schedule same-day appointments when you are sick and the clinic offers flexible, convenient early morning and evening hours. If you currently don’t have a family doctor and live in the Lowell area, give Advantage Primary Care a try.
Advantage Primary Care 507 W. Monroe, Suite A Lowell, AR 72745
479-463-8150
We apologize for the inconvenience, but Arkansas Blue Cross Medicare members are not able to schedule visits at the clinic because the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requires that any provider clinic accepting Medicare patients must see Medicare patients with any health insurance carrier. For Advantage Primary Care to remain exclusive to Arkansas Blue Cross members, the clinic is unable to accept appointments with Medicare members.
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
7
welcome to
Advantage Primary Care is a new primary care clinic in Lowell that provides health care exclusively for members of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield and its family of companies. Washington Regional Medical Center staffs and operates the new clinic.
Do you have a
family
doctor?
At Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, we want you to pick a family doctor to oversee your health. In fact, studies have shown that people with a family doctor have lower overall health care costs and are happier with their care.
Why is this important now ?
In the past, you may never have had any problems finding a doctor. However, after the new health care law passed, thousands of Arkansans signed up for health insurance for the very first time. This made an already crowded health care system even more crowded.
1.
A family doctor may help improve your health. Your family doctor will make sure you and your family get the care you need, including checkups to keep you healthy.
Arkansas Blue Cross wants to make sure you have a family doctor (or other primary care doctor, like a pediatrician or internist). If you’ve already chosen a family doctor, we would like to say thank you. You’ve taken an important step in staying healthy.
To select a family doctor: • Go to the website for your health plan: arkansasbluecross.com, healthadvantage-hmo.com or blueadvantagearkansas.com.
2. A family doctor may help you lower your out-of-pocket costs. Getting care from a family doctor is a smart way to spend your money on health care.
• Go to the “Members” drop-down menu at the top of the page and select “Find a Doctor.” • Enter your member ID number or the type of health plan you have. • Choose to search by doctor’s name, location, specialty or hospital affiliation. When you have selected a family doctor, call and let us know, and we will update our records.
6
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
3to have REASONS a family doctor
3. A family doctor can save you time. No more waiting in a crowded emergency room when you’re sick!
Advantage Primary Care is a patientcentered medical home (PCMH). That means the medical team will identify services needed to improve your health and treat you as an individual. Patientcentered medical homes equip patients with the knowledge and tools they need to proactively manage their conditions and limit acute health care problems. They use evidence-based guidelines to drive care and track treatment results to improve patients’ care and experience. At Advantage Primary Care you get more one-on-one time with the physician, you can schedule same-day appointments when you are sick and the clinic offers flexible, convenient early morning and evening hours. If you currently don’t have a family doctor and live in the Lowell area, give Advantage Primary Care a try.
Advantage Primary Care 507 W. Monroe, Suite A Lowell, AR 72745
479-463-8150
We apologize for the inconvenience, but Arkansas Blue Cross Medicare members are not able to schedule visits at the clinic because the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requires that any provider clinic accepting Medicare patients must see Medicare patients with any health insurance carrier. For Advantage Primary Care to remain exclusive to Arkansas Blue Cross members, the clinic is unable to accept appointments with Medicare members.
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
7
Get immediate access to your
Take Blue with yyou!
health care information through My Blueprint
My Blueprint, our personalized member self-service center, is your fastest way to access information regarding your health care coverage — and now it’s even faster.
Students
Groups
Expatriates
Missionaries
• English-speaking doctors in 180 countries
• Comprehensive coverage
• Concierge support and tools to manage care
• Emergency medical evacuation
Another way to buy diabetes supplies Arkansas Blue Cross and its family of companies have added another way for members with diabetes to purchase certain supplies. With a prescription from your physician, you now can buy diabetes test supplies at your local pharmacy. The supplies will be available at a preferred copayment amount or the cost will count toward your overall deductible and out-of-pocket maximum (depending on your coverage).
When you register for My Blueprint you now get immediate access to the following: • claims history • benefits and coverage information • the ability to review your recent doctors’ visits • your personal health record • a tool to estimate your treatment costs • customer service functions • health resources All it takes to get complete access is your member ID card and a few minutes to create the account information. After you register, you will immediately receive an email confirming your registration. A letter will be sent to your home a few days later. If you did not register for My Blueprint and you receive an email or letter saying you have, please contact Customer Service immediately.
This service is not available to members with Medicare health plans.
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
Mariners
Pleasantly affordable and with low deductibles, you can take Blue with you wherever you go! To learn more about GeoBlue, go to arkansasbluecross.com, select “Looking for Insurance” and choose “Health Plans for Travelers.”
You even can access My Blueprint on your phone and view your claims, your mobile ID card and who is covered on your plan. If you haven’t registered for My Blueprint, do it today.
8
Business and leisure travelers
Travelers don’t have to be enrolled in an Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield medical plan to sign up for GeoBlue. You can get coverage the day before you travel and keep it for however long or short your trip may be. As a GeoBlue member, you’ll receive lots of perks and have access to:
When members registered for My Blueprint before, they had to wait to gain full access to their information. Our new process allows you to have immediate access to all of the resources in our self-service center but still protects your personal health care information. “As we are evaluating our websites and identifying pain points for our members, this was an obvious area we could improve our members’ experience,” said Trey Hankins, manager of eMarketing for Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. “When someone registers for a website, their expectation is to have immediate access to the information they need. By removing the activation process, we’re meeting those expectations.”
If you’re traveling abroad this summer, you can take peace of mind with you in the form of GeoBlue — the newly offered health insurance for international travelers. GeoBlue health plans cover short- and long-term trips and are perfect for:
• Meters (OneTouch brand) • Test strips (OneTouch brand) • Syringes • Lancets • Needles
Happy with how you get supplies?
Your local pharmacist is a good resource for questions about medicine and supplies. Next time you need to refill your supplies, remember to visit your local pharmacy and bring your member ID card.
Other options for diabetes supplies are still available to you! Nothing changes if you order diabetes supplies from a durable medical equipment provider, or if you’re a member of the Diabetes Health Education program. You can
continue to get your strips, lancets and other supplies the same way. The option to purchase at your local pharmacy is just another outlet to make buying diabetes testing supplies more convenient for our members.
If you are covered under a self-funded health plan administered by BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas, you should check with your plan administrator to find out if these benefits are available to you. OneTouch is owned by Johnson & Johnson, an independent company that provides diabetes meters to qualifying members of Arkansas Blue Cross and our family of companies.
Members with Medi-Pak Advantage and Medi-Pak supplement health plans have different benefits for diabetes supplies. Please call customer service for more information.
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
9
GET IMMEDIATE ACCESS TO YOUR
Take Blue with yyou!
HEALTH CARE INFORMATION THROUGH MY BLUEPRINT
My Blueprint, our personalized member self-service center, is your fastest way to access information regarding your health care coverage — and now it’s even faster.
Students
Groups
Expatriates
Missionaries
• English-speaking doctors in 180 countries
• Comprehensive coverage
• Concierge support and tools to manage care
• Emergency medical evacuation
Another way to buy diabetes supplies When you register for My Blueprint you now get immediate access to the following: • claims history • benefits and coverage information • the ability to review your recent doctors’ visits • your personal health record • a tool to estimate your treatment costs • customer service functions • health resources All it takes to get complete access is your member ID card and a few minutes to create the account information. After you register, you will immediately receive an email confirming your registration. A letter will be sent to your home a few days later. If you did not register for My Blueprint and you receive an email or letter saying you have, please contact Customer Service immediately.
This service is not available to members with Medicare health plans.
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
Mariners
Pleasantly affordable and with low deductibles, you can take Blue with you wherever you go! To learn more about GeoBlue, go to arkansasbluecross.com, select “Looking for Insurance” and choose “Health Plans for Travelers.”
You even can access My Blueprint on your phone and view your claims, your mobile ID card and who is covered on your plan. If you haven’t registered for My Blueprint, do it today.
8
Business and leisure travelers
Travelers don’t have to be enrolled in an Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield medical plan to sign up for GeoBlue. You can get coverage the day before you travel and keep it for however long or short your trip may be. As a GeoBlue member, you’ll receive lots of perks and have access to:
When members registered for My Blueprint before, they had to wait to gain full access to their information. Our new process allows you to have immediate access to all of the resources in our self-service center but still protects your personal health care information. “As we are evaluating our websites and identifying pain points for our members, this was an obvious area we could improve our members’ experience,” said Trey Hankins, manager of eMarketing for Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. “When someone registers for a website, their expectation is to have immediate access to the information they need. By removing the activation process, we’re meeting those expectations.”
If you’re traveling abroad this summer, you can take peace of mind with you in the form of GeoBlue — the newly offered health insurance for international travelers. GeoBlue health plans cover short- and long-term trips and are perfect for:
Arkansas Blue Cross and its family of companies have added another way for members with diabetes to purchase certain supplies. With a prescription from your physician, you now can buy diabetes test supplies at your local pharmacy. The supplies will be available at a preferred copayment amount or the cost will count toward your overall deductible and out-of-pocket maximum (depending on your coverage).
• Meters (OneTouch brand) • Test strips (OneTouch brand) • Syringes • Lancets • Needles Your local pharmacist is a good resource for questions about medicine and supplies. Next time you need to refill your supplies, remember to visit your local pharmacy and bring your member ID card.
Happy with how you get supplies? Other options for diabetes supplies are still available to you! Nothing changes if you order diabetes supplies from a durable medical equipment provider, or if you’re a member of the Diabetes Health Education program. You can continue to get your strips, lancets and other supplies the same way. The option to purchase at your local pharmacy is just another outlet to make buying diabetes testing supplies more convenient for our members.
For a free One Touch meter, contact onetouch.orderpoints.com (Redemption code: BCBSAR708) or call 1-800-588-4456.
If you are covered under a self-funded health plan administered by BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas, you should check with your plan administrator to find out if these benefits are available to you. OneTouch is owned by Johnson & Johnson, an independent company that provides diabetes meters to qualifying members of Arkansas Blue Cross and our family of companies.
Members with Medi-Pak Advantage and Medi-Pak supplement health plans have different benefits for diabetes supplies. Please call customer service for more information.
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
9
Living Fearlessly:
Jaxon’s mending
heart
While learning of Jax’s condition early in the pregnancy was terrifying for Ashley and Rick, her husband, it gave them much-needed time to become more familiar with Jax’s condition. They learned from a pediatric echocardiogram that Jax had tricuspid atresia, a problem with the right side of the heart, which is supposed to push blood to the lungs. Without the valve working properly, Jax’s blood wouldn’t be able to pick up oxygen in his lungs once he was born. Ashley settled into a routine of visiting once a month with an obstetrics doctor in Little Rock at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). On March 21, 2014, Ashley was given a cesarean (C-section) and Jax was immediately whisked away to Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Rick gave her the news that Jax’s oxygen level was good and he didn’t need immediate surgery or medications. That’s when Crystal began following the McGarrah family. As a pediatric nurse case manager, she checks the roster at Arkansas Children’s Hospital and contacts families who may need help.
axon “Jax” McGarrah’s big grin and twinkling eyes make it hard to believe this little boy was ever anything but the picture of health, but the pale pink scar down his chest is proof of a medical journey he and his family began long before he was even born. And, since his birth, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has been helping the McGarrahs, through the guidance of Crystal Stanfield, a nurse case manager who specializes in pediatric conditions. “Having Arkansas Blue Cross has been a blessing in several ways,” Ashley said. “From people like Crystal to call with questions, the Personal Health Statements we get in the mail, to knowing that most doctors and hospitals take Arkansas Blue Cross; all this takes stress off of me so I can focus on Jax and my family.” Twenty-one weeks into her pregnancy, Ashley went for a routine ultrasound — a screening most parents associate with getting to see their baby for the first time and maybe learning their child’s gender. During the ultrasound, however, it became clear that Jax’s heart wasn’t developing properly. Ashley’s doctor told her she would need to see doctors in Little Rock throughout her pregnancy and for the safe delivery of her son.
10
‘‘
J
‘‘
Having Arkansas Blue Cross has been a blessing in several ways.
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
– Ashley McGarrah
Crystal met with the McGarrahs to see if they needed anything and to answer questions they might have. An echocardiogram showed that the hole in the right chamber of the heart had started to close. He would have to have surgery eventually, but didn’t need it immediately. “They said if we could get him to eat we could go home instead of having surgery,” Ashley said. While the McGarrahs went back to Rogers with Jax, Ashley said she stayed in contact with Crystal and had her number on the refrigerator and in her purse. “I knew I could always pick up the phone and call Crystal,” she said. Jax did terrific at home until July 4, 2014, when he spiked a fever. After an ambulance ride to Little Rock, it was determined that he had a virus, but it was also time for him to have surgery on his heart. “July 17, 2014, was the hardest day of our lives,” Ashley wrote on Jax’s Facebook page, “I Heart Jax.” “We had to let Jax go, not knowing if he would make it through surgery.” Jax was born with two superior vena cava, a large vein that brings blood from the upper part of the body to the heart. Usually a person only has one.
The heart of the matter
What is case management?
Congenital heart defects are the most common birth defect, and the leading cause of birth defectrelated deaths worldwide.
When you need it, case management is a powerful tool that can help you navigate the health care system. The registered nurses in our case management programs are required to have at least three years of clinical practice. Case managers can help you:
• One in every 125 babies is born with a CHD every year in the United States alone. • CHDs are 60 times more prevalent than childhood cancer. • 18 distinct types of congenital heart defects are recognized. • In the past 25 years, advances in the treatment of heart defects have enabled half a million U.S. children with serious CHDs to survive into adulthood. • Many heart defects can be detected by a routine ultrasound.
• Maximize your health plan benefits. • Learn about your condition through health education. • Better understand and deal with the complexities of the health care system. • Identify less costly alternatives to expensive treatment settings, such as hospitalization. If you think case management could help you with a health condition, call the Arkansas Blue Cross office closest to you (see page 19).
Source: American Heart Association, heart.org
During the surgery the doctors had to move these veins from the heart and attach them to the pulmonary artery, making the blood go directly to his lungs to get oxygen. He will need to have a similar surgery for the vein from his lower body in the future. Crystal stayed with the McGarrahs during the surgery. “She hung out with us and it was great,” Ashley said. “It was very relieving and comforting to have a pediatric nurse there who could answer questions we had.”
complications. “We were at dinner when we got a call from the cardiologist,” Ashley said. They were told that the first surgery went well, but the pressure in his head was too high, which was causing swelling. The surgeons had to put bands around his pulmonary artery to restrict the blood flow and even out the pressure. Jax’s second surgery went smoothly and within a week they were headed back to Rogers. In August, Jax saw his pediatrician and cardiologist and got very good reports from both.
Jax made it through the surgery, but the next day he had
After a few months of healing, Jax and his family have been doing
what they can to teach more people about congenital heart defects (CHD). Jax already has been to two Heart Walks for the American Heart Association. Big sister Kira, 11, made more than 300 hearts out of flour, salt and water, painted them and handed them out during events. She also has attended three Jump Rope for Heart events, given presentations and even wrote a song about her brother. Middle brother, Malaki, 2, has helped as much as he can. “The more people we can make aware of CHD, the better,” said Ashley.
A faint pink scar is the only sign that Jax had surgery for his congenital heart defect.
The McGarrah family, Rick, sister Kira, Ashley, brother Malaki and Jax, visit with Arkansas Blue Cross nurse case manager Crystal Stanfield (right, holding Jax).
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
11
Living Fearlessly:
Jaxon’s mending
heart
While learning of Jax’s condition early in the pregnancy was terrifying for Ashley and Rick, her husband, it gave them much-needed time to become more familiar with Jax’s condition. They learned from a pediatric echocardiogram that Jax had tricuspid atresia, a problem with the right side of the heart, which is supposed to push blood to the lungs. Without the valve working properly, Jax’s blood wouldn’t be able to pick up oxygen in his lungs once he was born. Ashley settled into a routine of visiting once a month with an obstetrics doctor in Little Rock at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). On March 21, 2014, Ashley was given a cesarean (C-section) and Jax was immediately whisked away to Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Rick gave her the news that Jax’s oxygen level was good and he didn’t need immediate surgery or medications. That’s when Crystal began following the McGarrah family. As a pediatric nurse case manager, she checks the roster at Arkansas Children’s Hospital and contacts families who may need help.
axon “Jax” McGarrah’s big grin and twinkling eyes make it hard to believe this little boy was ever anything but the picture of health, but the pale pink scar down his chest is proof of a medical journey he and his family began long before he was even born. And, since his birth, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has been helping the McGarrahs, through the guidance of Crystal Stanfield, a nurse case manager who specializes in pediatric conditions. “Having Arkansas Blue Cross has been a blessing in several ways,” Ashley said. “From people like Crystal to call with questions, the Personal Health Statements we get in the mail, to knowing that most doctors and hospitals take Arkansas Blue Cross; all this takes stress off of me so I can focus on Jax and my family.” Twenty-one weeks into her pregnancy, Ashley went for a routine ultrasound — a screening most parents associate with getting to see their baby for the first time and maybe learning their child’s gender. During the ultrasound, however, it became clear that Jax’s heart wasn’t developing properly. Ashley’s doctor told her she would need to see doctors in Little Rock throughout her pregnancy and for the safe delivery of her son.
10
‘‘
J
‘‘
Having Arkansas Blue Cross has been a blessing in several ways.
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
– Ashley McGarrah
Crystal met with the McGarrahs to see if they needed anything and to answer questions they might have. An echocardiogram showed that the hole in the right chamber of the heart had started to close. He would have to have surgery eventually, but didn’t need it immediately. “They said if we could get him to eat we could go home instead of having surgery,” Ashley said. While the McGarrahs went back to Rogers with Jax, Ashley said she stayed in contact with Crystal and had her number on the refrigerator and in her purse. “I knew I could always pick up the phone and call Crystal,” she said. Jax did terrific at home until July 4, 2014, when he spiked a fever. After an ambulance ride to Little Rock, it was determined that he had a virus, but it was also time for him to have surgery on his heart. “July 17, 2014, was the hardest day of our lives,” Ashley wrote on Jax’s Facebook page, “I Heart Jax.” “We had to let Jax go, not knowing if he would make it through surgery.” Jax was born with two superior vena cava, a large vein that brings blood from the upper part of the body to the heart. Usually a person only has one.
The heart of the matter
What is case management?
Congenital heart defects are the most common birth defect, and the leading cause of birth defectrelated deaths worldwide.
When you need it, case management is a powerful tool that can help you navigate the health care system. The registered nurses in our case management programs are required to have at least three years of clinical practice. Case managers can help you:
• One in every 125 babies is born with a CHD every year in the United States alone. • CHDs are 60 times more prevalent than childhood cancer. • 18 distinct types of congenital heart defects are recognized. • In the past 25 years, advances in the treatment of heart defects have enabled half a million U.S. children with serious CHDs to survive into adulthood. • Many heart defects can be detected by a routine ultrasound.
• Maximize your health plan benefits. • Learn about your condition through health education. • Better understand and deal with the complexities of the health care system. • Identify less costly alternatives to expensive treatment settings, such as hospitalization. If you think case management could help you with a health condition, call the Arkansas Blue Cross office closest to you (see page 19).
Source: American Heart Association, heart.org
During the surgery the doctors had to move these veins from the heart and attach them to the pulmonary artery, making the blood go directly to his lungs to get oxygen. He will need to have a similar surgery for the vein from his lower body in the future. Crystal stayed with the McGarrahs during the surgery. “She hung out with us and it was great,” Ashley said. “It was very relieving and comforting to have a pediatric nurse there who could answer questions we had.”
complications. “We were at dinner when we got a call from the cardiologist,” Ashley said. They were told that the first surgery went well, but the pressure in his head was too high, which was causing swelling. The surgeons had to put bands around his pulmonary artery to restrict the blood flow and even out the pressure. Jax’s second surgery went smoothly and within a week they were headed back to Rogers. In August, Jax saw his pediatrician and cardiologist and got very good reports from both.
Jax made it through the surgery, but the next day he had
After a few months of healing, Jax and his family have been doing
what they can to teach more people about congenital heart defects (CHD). Jax already has been to two Heart Walks for the American Heart Association. Big sister Kira, 11, made more than 300 hearts out of flour, salt and water, painted them and handed them out during events. She also has attended three Jump Rope for Heart events, given presentations and even wrote a song about her brother. Middle brother, Malaki, 2, has helped as much as he can. “The more people we can make aware of CHD, the better,” said Ashley.
A faint pink scar is the only sign that Jax had surgery for his congenital heart defect.
The McGarrah family, Rick, sister Kira, Ashley, brother Malaki and Jax, visit with Arkansas Blue Cross nurse case manager Crystal Stanfield (right, holding Jax).
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
11
11.
1. 9. 4.
Students and teachers try out the new track at Holcomb Elementary School in Fayetteville.
5. 12.
3.
2.
13.
15.
14.
7.
10.
6.
8.
Communities Receiving Grants 1. City of Cave Springs
Built a new trail to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act.
School staff at Crossett Elementary School supervise the unwrapping and installation of one of 15 exercise stations along the trail.
2. City of Fairfield Bay
Built an outdoor walking trail with nine exercise stations.
3. City of Gosnell
Extended an existing walking trail.
There literally are miles of trails and tracks across Arkansas that were not there just a few short years ago. Some are paved while others give you a chance to get your hiking boots dirty. Many are equipped with outdoor exercise stations, benches and picnic tables — 15 of them are the result of grants from the Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas. Since 2003, the Blue & You Foundation has awarded $1,273,551 to 15 communities across Arkansas to help them construct hiking trails and walking/running tracks for the benefit of their citizens.
12
“Many towns in Arkansas don’t have a safe, attractive and convenient place for people to walk or run and enjoy some time exercising,” said Patrick O’Sullivan, executive director of the Blue & You Foundation. “By helping to fund the construction of walking trails and exercise stations along the trails, we hope to give Arkansans a pleasant location to regularly enjoy some exercise, fresh air and family fun.”
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
The Return on Investment
4. City of Greenland
Does the return on this investment justify the cost? It’s a fair question. Let’s look at one community’s experience.
6. City of Lake Village
According to Holly Johnson, director of development for Fayetteville Public Schools, the repairs to and construction of running/walking/biking tracks at four schools have encouraged exercise and outdoor activities for students and their families. “Many students either walk to school or ride their bikes to school each day,” she said. “Having a track at the local school encourages this physical activity and provides students with a place to practice their bicycle safety.” In fact, more than 2,000 students will use the tracks, because they are used in physical education classes. And, the tracks continue to see use even when school is out. “We often see families
Built a walking trail with exercise stations.
5. City of Jonesboro
12 exercise stations were added to an existing trail. Expanded walking trails, added exercise stations and improved a farmers market and free fitness center.
7. City of Portland
Built a new walking trail.
Students gather to celebrate the ribbon cutting for the new walking track at Happy Hollow Elementary School in Fayetteville.
using these tracks for exercise before and after school and on the weekends, too,” said Holly. “Just in the past five years there has been an explosion of interest in walking, hiking and biking on the trail systems being developed across Arkansas. We can see that increased interest in physical fitness and outdoor activity on a smaller scale right here in our own school community through the use of the elementary school tracks.” Holly is quick to credit the Blue & You Foundation for making it possible.
Exercise stations are visible in the background of the walking trail at Sutton Elementary in Fort Smith, which is open to the community.
“We are grateful for the investment the Blue & You Foundation has made,” she said. “It will pay dividends in our community for years to come.” That is why the Blue & You Foundation plans to fund similar projects — so healthy dividends will be reaped all across Arkansas. “The beauty of these trails, in addition to their natural beauty, is that they will last many years and add more years to the lives of our fellow citizens,” said Patrick. “We consider it a healthy investment in the people of Arkansas.”
8. Crossett Elementary School
Built a walking trail with exercise stations.
9. Fayetteville School District
Built or improved walking trails at four local schools.
10. Magnolia Hospital Foundation
Renovated a hospital wellness park.
11. Piggott Parks and Recreation
Built a new hiking trail.
12. Searcy County
Upgraded an existing walking trail.
13. Sutton Elementary School in Fort Smith
Provided increased exercise opportunities to local fitness program.
14. Woodlawn School District in Rison
Built a fitness trail with exercise stations.
15. Wynne Public Schools
Added exercise stations to existing walking trails. Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
13
11.
1. 9. 4.
Students and teachers try out the new track at Holcomb Elementary School in Fayetteville.
5. 12.
3.
2.
13.
15.
14.
7.
10.
6.
8.
Communities Receiving Grants 1. City of Cave Springs
Built a new trail to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act.
School staff at Crossett Elementary School supervise the unwrapping and installation of one of 15 exercise stations along the trail.
2. City of Fairfield Bay
Built an outdoor walking trail with nine exercise stations.
3. City of Gosnell
Extended an existing walking trail.
There literally are miles of trails and tracks across Arkansas that were not there just a few short years ago. Some are paved while others give you a chance to get your hiking boots dirty. Many are equipped with outdoor exercise stations, benches and picnic tables — 15 of them are the result of grants from the Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas. Since 2003, the Blue & You Foundation has awarded $1,273,551 to 15 communities across Arkansas to help them construct hiking trails and walking/running tracks for the benefit of their citizens.
12
“Many towns in Arkansas don’t have a safe, attractive and convenient place for people to walk or run and enjoy some time exercising,” said Patrick O’Sullivan, executive director of the Blue & You Foundation. “By helping to fund the construction of walking trails and exercise stations along the trails, we hope to give Arkansans a pleasant location to regularly enjoy some exercise, fresh air and family fun.”
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
The Return on Investment
4. City of Greenland
Does the return on this investment justify the cost? It’s a fair question. Let’s look at one community’s experience.
6. City of Lake Village
According to Holly Johnson, director of development for Fayetteville Public Schools, the repairs to and construction of running/walking/biking tracks at four schools have encouraged exercise and outdoor activities for students and their families. “Many students either walk to school or ride their bikes to school each day,” she said. “Having a track at the local school encourages this physical activity and provides students with a place to practice their bicycle safety.” In fact, more than 2,000 students will use the tracks, because they are used in physical education classes. And, the tracks continue to see use even when school is out. “We often see families
Built a walking trail with exercise stations.
5. City of Jonesboro
12 exercise stations were added to an existing trail. Expanded walking trails, added exercise stations and improved a farmers market and free fitness center.
7. City of Portland
Built a new walking trail.
Students gather to celebrate the ribbon cutting for the new walking track at Happy Hollow Elementary School in Fayetteville.
using these tracks for exercise before and after school and on the weekends, too,” said Holly. “Just in the past five years there has been an explosion of interest in walking, hiking and biking on the trail systems being developed across Arkansas. We can see that increased interest in physical fitness and outdoor activity on a smaller scale right here in our own school community through the use of the elementary school tracks.” Holly is quick to credit the Blue & You Foundation for making it possible.
Exercise stations are visible in the background of the walking trail at Sutton Elementary in Fort Smith, which is open to the community.
“We are grateful for the investment the Blue & You Foundation has made,” she said. “It will pay dividends in our community for years to come.” That is why the Blue & You Foundation plans to fund similar projects — so healthy dividends will be reaped all across Arkansas. “The beauty of these trails, in addition to their natural beauty, is that they will last many years and add more years to the lives of our fellow citizens,” said Patrick. “We consider it a healthy investment in the people of Arkansas.”
8. Crossett Elementary School
Built a walking trail with exercise stations.
9. Fayetteville School District
Built or improved walking trails at four local schools.
10. Magnolia Hospital Foundation
Renovated a hospital wellness park.
11. Piggott Parks and Recreation
Built a new hiking trail.
12. Searcy County
Upgraded an existing walking trail.
13. Sutton Elementary School in Fort Smith
Provided increased exercise opportunities to local fitness program.
14. Woodlawn School District in Rison
Built a fitness trail with exercise stations.
15. Wynne Public Schools
Added exercise stations to existing walking trails. Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
13
Even short hikes require gear, so be sure to bring a comfortable backpack or daypack where you can carry the following: • Map and compass (smartphone doesn’t count) • Plenty of water and a way to purify any you find • Food (trail mix is great because it will help replace the salts you sweat out) • A fire starter, light, knife or multipurpose tool, and whistle for emergencies • First aid kit, including an antihistamine for allergens • Water shoes
Get ready
• Extra socks • Insect repellent
for the
T
here are a few things to think about before you hit the trails. You need to prepare! Research trails’ difficulty levels and pick ones suited to your abilities. You can look up trail ratings and descriptions online or contact the appropriate parks and recreation department.
14
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
S
taying hydrated is important, especially in the hot summer when you’re already sweating, so drink lots of water in the hours before you go. You’ll want to drink about a quart of water per hour during your hike. If children are with you, make sure they’re drinking their water, too! Early signs of dehydration include headache, lack of appetite from nausea, dizziness and dark urine. If you suspect you’re dehydrated, rest in the shade and drink more water.
Before you start the hike, let people know where you’re hiking and when you expect to be back so they can keep an eye out for your safe return. Once you’re on the trail, remember a few key things: • Stay on the trail to preserve the area’s beauty and habitat
Once you’ve found one, check the weather and dress accordingly (but remember weathermen aren’t perfect). It’s best to dress in layers and to bring some kind of rain cover. Avoid cotton — it does a terrible job of wicking away moisture, which can lead to chafing, overheating or cooling or worse. Instead, wear synthetic fabrics, fleece or wool. Your shoe choice should depend on your terrain and what you’re carrying—more difficult trails and heavier loads require sturdier footwear.
• Observe wildlife from a distance and don’t feed the animals
If your trail doesn’t have a lot of tree coverage, try to schedule your hike in the morning, when UV rays are weakest. Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are must-haves regardless of when you go or how much shade you’ll have.
And finally, make sure you allow yourself enough time to truly enjoy the fresh air, peace and simplicity of nature. It’s good for the heart and soul!
• Be wary of poison ivy and the like; “Leaves of three, let it be” • Look for spiders, insects and snakes before you reach into or step on or over things • Pack out what you pack in—that means everything!
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
15
Even short hikes require gear, so be sure to bring a comfortable backpack or daypack where you can carry the following: • Map and compass (smartphone doesn’t count) • Plenty of water and a way to purify any you find • Food (trail mix is great because it will help replace the salts you sweat out) • A fire starter, light, knife or multipurpose tool, and whistle for emergencies • First aid kit, including an antihistamine for allergens • Water shoes
Get ready
• Extra socks • Insect repellent
for the
T
here are a few things to think about before you hit the trails. You need to prepare! Research trails’ difficulty levels and pick ones suited to your abilities. You can look up trail ratings and descriptions online or contact the appropriate parks and recreation department.
14
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
S
taying hydrated is important, especially in the hot summer when you’re already sweating, so drink lots of water in the hours before you go. You’ll want to drink about a quart of water per hour during your hike. If children are with you, make sure they’re drinking their water, too! Early signs of dehydration include headache, lack of appetite from nausea, dizziness and dark urine. If you suspect you’re dehydrated, rest in the shade and drink more water.
Before you start the hike, let people know where you’re hiking and when you expect to be back so they can keep an eye out for your safe return. Once you’re on the trail, remember a few key things: • Stay on the trail to preserve the area’s beauty and habitat
Once you’ve found one, check the weather and dress accordingly (but remember weathermen aren’t perfect). It’s best to dress in layers and to bring some kind of rain cover. Avoid cotton — it does a terrible job of wicking away moisture, which can lead to chafing, overheating or cooling or worse. Instead, wear synthetic fabrics, fleece or wool. Your shoe choice should depend on your terrain and what you’re carrying—more difficult trails and heavier loads require sturdier footwear.
• Observe wildlife from a distance and don’t feed the animals
If your trail doesn’t have a lot of tree coverage, try to schedule your hike in the morning, when UV rays are weakest. Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are must-haves regardless of when you go or how much shade you’ll have.
And finally, make sure you allow yourself enough time to truly enjoy the fresh air, peace and simplicity of nature. It’s good for the heart and soul!
• Be wary of poison ivy and the like; “Leaves of three, let it be” • Look for spiders, insects and snakes before you reach into or step on or over things • Pack out what you pack in—that means everything!
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
15
NEWS
Arkansas needs more nurses
Two grants help train nurses in Arkansas This spring, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield awarded grants of $250,000 each to the Baptist Health Foundation to fund an endowed nursing scholarship and to the Arkansas State University College of Nursing and Health Professions to fund an endowed nursing professorship in rural health.
National Walk @ Lunch Day
Baptist Health Foundation’s Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield Endowed Nursing Scholarship will fund four scholarships a year through interest generated from the grant for Arkansans who intend to work as nurses in Arkansas. Arkansas State University’s Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield Endowed Nursing Professorship in Rural Health Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield employees, clad in their blues and comfy shoes, took to the streets on April 29 to celebrate National Walk @ Lunch Day (NW@LD). They were joined by employees of other local businesses in the walk around downtown Little Rock to the State Capitol building.
Central Arkansas Heart Walk More than 130 Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield employees and their families participated in the Central Arkansas Heart Walk on April 25. Arkansas Blue Cross’ employee team, Team Fearless, joined other central Arkansans at Burns Park to help the fight against heart disease and stroke.
16 18
As a special fundraiser, a flash mob of executives and employees (with the help of a talented choreographer) performed at the walk, and, although their dance technique didn’t exceed expectations, the fundraising certainly did. Arkansas Blue Cross employees raised $16,490 this year for the American Heart Association.
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
NW@LD is an event designed to encourage employees to spend part of their lunch walking in an effort to promote fitness and encourage regular worksite wellness activities. NW@LD is part of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association’s Walking Works program.
allows A-State to provide increased focus on the particular issues related to serving rural communities, and to expand the number of opportunities for students to enter into the program. “At Arkansas Blue Cross, we have about 300 nurses on staff and we regularly hear from our members how vital our nurses are in helping them navigate the health care system,” said Mark White, president and chief executive officer at Arkansas Blue Cross. “We value the role nurses play at Arkansas Blue Cross and in health care.”
Arkansas Arts Center’s Children’s Theatre Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield hosted a special showing of “The Cat in the Hat” at the Arkansas Arts Center’s Children’s Theatre on March 15. Free tickets were given away at most of our ArkansasBlue locations (Little Rock, Hot Springs and Pine Bluff). More than 100 families from throughout Arkansas stopped by their local ArkansasBlue store to pick up tickets. Parents and children alike enjoyed the play. BlueAnn Ewe and the Cat, himself, arrived early to the play for a special photo op with the children. Arkansas Blue Cross is proud to sponsor the arts in Arkansas and provide a family friendly outing for its members.
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
17
NEWS
Arkansas needs more nurses
Two grants help train nurses in Arkansas This spring, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield awarded grants of $250,000 each to the Baptist Health Foundation to fund an endowed nursing scholarship and to the Arkansas State University College of Nursing and Health Professions to fund an endowed nursing professorship in rural health.
National Walk @ Lunch Day
Baptist Health Foundation’s Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield Endowed Nursing Scholarship will fund four scholarships a year through interest generated from the grant for Arkansans who intend to work as nurses in Arkansas. Arkansas State University’s Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield Endowed Nursing Professorship in Rural Health Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield employees, clad in their blues and comfy shoes, took to the streets on April 29 to celebrate National Walk @ Lunch Day (NW@LD). They were joined by employees of other local businesses in the walk around downtown Little Rock to the State Capitol building.
Central Arkansas Heart Walk More than 130 Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield employees and their families participated in the Central Arkansas Heart Walk on April 25. Arkansas Blue Cross’ employee team, Team Fearless, joined other central Arkansans at Burns Park to help the fight against heart disease and stroke.
16 18
As a special fundraiser, a flash mob of executives and employees (with the help of a talented choreographer) performed at the walk, and, although their dance technique didn’t exceed expectations, the fundraising certainly did. Arkansas Blue Cross employees raised $16,490 this year for the American Heart Association.
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
NW@LD is an event designed to encourage employees to spend part of their lunch walking in an effort to promote fitness and encourage regular worksite wellness activities. NW@LD is part of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association’s Walking Works program.
allows A-State to provide increased focus on the particular issues related to serving rural communities, and to expand the number of opportunities for students to enter into the program. “At Arkansas Blue Cross, we have about 300 nurses on staff and we regularly hear from our members how vital our nurses are in helping them navigate the health care system,” said Mark White, president and chief executive officer at Arkansas Blue Cross. “We value the role nurses play at Arkansas Blue Cross and in health care.”
Arkansas Arts Center’s Children’s Theatre Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield hosted a special showing of “The Cat in the Hat” at the Arkansas Arts Center’s Children’s Theatre on March 15. Free tickets were given away at most of our ArkansasBlue locations (Little Rock, Hot Springs and Pine Bluff). More than 100 families from throughout Arkansas stopped by their local ArkansasBlue store to pick up tickets. Parents and children alike enjoyed the play. BlueAnn Ewe and the Cat, himself, arrived early to the play for a special photo op with the children. Arkansas Blue Cross is proud to sponsor the arts in Arkansas and provide a family friendly outing for its members.
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
17
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield Financial Information Privacy Notice At Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield and its affiliates (including HMO Partners, Inc. doing business as Health Advantage), we understand how important it is to keep your private information just that — private. Because of the nature of our business, we must collect some personal information from our members, but we also are committed to maintaining, securing and protecting that information.
Customer Information Arkansas Blue Cross and its affiliates only compile information necessary for us to provide the services that you, our member, request from us and to administer your business. We collect non-public personal financial information (defined as any information that can be tied back to a specific person and is gathered by any source that is not publicly available) about our members from: • Applications for insurance coverage. The application includes information such as name, address, personal identifiers such as Social Security number, and medical information that you authorize us to collect. • Payment history and related financial transactions from the purchase and use of our products. • Information related to the fact that you have been or currently are a member.
Arkansas Blue Cross 1-800-238-8379 Health Advantage 1-800-843-1329 Self-funded group members should call Customer Service using the toll-free telephone number on their ID card.
18
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
Sharing of Information Arkansas Blue Cross and its affiliates do not disclose, and do not wish to reserve the right to disclose, non-public personal information about you to other parties except as permitted or required by law. Examples of instances in which Arkansas Blue Cross and its affiliates will provide information to one another or other third parties are: • To service or process products that you have requested. • To provide information as permitted and required by law to accrediting agencies. • To provide information to comply with federal, state or local laws in an administrative or judicial process.
How We Protect Your Information Arkansas Blue Cross and its affiliates use various security mechanisms to protect your personal data including electronic and physical measures as well as company policies that limit employee access to non-public personal financial information. Improper access and use of confidential information by an employee can result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.
Disclosure of Privacy Notice Arkansas Blue Cross and its affiliates recognize and respect the privacy concerns of potential, current and former customers. Arkansas Blue Cross and its affiliates are committed to safeguarding this information. This Financial Information Privacy Notice is provided to our members as required by state regulation to explain how we handle their non-public financial information. It is also available on our website at arkansasbluecross.com or from our Customer Service call centers. Our Customer Service areas are open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Central time, Monday through Friday.
“OUT OF THE BLUE”
affordable by changing the way we pay for the high cost of specialty care, by “bundling” payments to specialists, hospitals and other medical service providers through a program called the Arkansas Payment Improvement Initiative. These efforts are beginning to show promise toward meeting the objectives of improved cost and quality, and they are the foundation on which a more effective health care system must be built. In considering how health care should be provided to Arkansans going forward, it is important that we build on the innovations already in place. It is important that we do it Arkansas’ way.
Continued FROM page 3
insured patients in order to cover the costs of those who cannot pay, and government programs that pay too little to cover costs. A free market solution will ensure that doctors and hospitals can cover their costs and that those with commercial insurance no longer pay a “hidden tax.” 3. It’s also important that we approach this in a way that is best for Arkansas. Our state has been a laboratory of sorts for innovation designed to improve both the cost and the quality of health care. Working in partnership with state government, doctors and hospitals, Arkansas Blue Cross has been working to lay the foundation for a better health care system. Together, we are protecting access to primary care by creating new, team-based approaches that give patients the additional support they need to be healthy. We are making care more
We have the opportunity to create a better health system by and for Arkansans. At Arkansas Blue Cross, we welcome the opportunity to work with the Health Care Reform Task Force in building a new health care system built on existing Arkansas innovation, free enterprise, personal responsibility and common sense.
CUSTOMER SERVICE NUMBERS May we help?
For customer service, please call:
TOLL FREE Number
Medi-Pak® members ® Medi-Pak Advantage members Medi-Pak® Rx members Arkansas Blue Cross members • Pharmacy questions • Specialty Rx pharmacy questions Arkansas Blue Cross Metallic members (Gold, Silver, Bronze, Catastrophic) • Pharmacy questions Health Advantage members • Pharmacy questions BlueAdvantage members • Pharmacy questions Federal Employee members
1-800-338-2312 1-877-233-7022 1-866-390-3369 1-800-238-8379 1-800-863-5561 1-866-295-2779 1-800-800-4298 1-800-969-3983 1-800-843-1329 1-800-863-5567 1-888-872-2531 1-888-293-3748 1-800-482-6655
Looking for health or dental insurance? We can help! For individuals, families For employer groups*
1-800-392-2583 1-800-421-1112
*Arkansas Blue Cross, Health Advantage and BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas
PAY YOUR
BILL
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 • Fayetteville 516 East Millsap Rd., Suite 103 • Fort Smith 3501 Old Greenwood Rd., Suite 5 • ArkansasBlue — Hot Springs 1635 Higdon Ferry Rd. – Suite J • Jonesboro 707 East Matthews Ave. • Little Rock 601 S. Gaines Street • ArkansasBlue — Lowell 507 W. Monroe Ave. – Suite B • ArkansasBlue — Pine Bluff 509 Mallard Loop Drive • Texarkana 1710 Arkansas Boulevard
1-501-378-2222 1-800-817-7726 1-866-254-9117 1-800-588-5733 1-800-299-4124 1-800-421-1112 1-888-872-2539 1-800-236-0369 1-800-470-9621
Visit our websites for more information:
arkansasbluecross.com • healthadvantage-hmo.com blueadvantagearkansas.com blueandyoufoundationarkansas.org
To pay by phone*, please call 1-800-354-9904 * Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug plan product members must call Customer Service to discuss available payment options. Health Advantage conversion plans are not eligible for online, mobile or pay-by-phone payment option.
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
19
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield Financial Information Privacy Notice At Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield and its affiliates (including HMO Partners, Inc. doing business as Health Advantage), we understand how important it is to keep your private information just that — private. Because of the nature of our business, we must collect some personal information from our members, but we also are committed to maintaining, securing and protecting that information.
Customer Information Arkansas Blue Cross and its affiliates only compile information necessary for us to provide the services that you, our member, request from us and to administer your business. We collect non-public personal financial information (defined as any information that can be tied back to a specific person and is gathered by any source that is not publicly available) about our members from: • Applications for insurance coverage. The application includes information such as name, address, personal identifiers such as Social Security number, and medical information that you authorize us to collect. • Payment history and related financial transactions from the purchase and use of our products. • Information related to the fact that you have been or currently are a member.
Arkansas Blue Cross 1-800-238-8379 Health Advantage 1-800-843-1329 Self-funded group members should call Customer Service using the toll-free telephone number on their ID card.
18
BLUE & YOU Summer 2015
Sharing of Information Arkansas Blue Cross and its affiliates do not disclose, and do not wish to reserve the right to disclose, non-public personal information about you to other parties except as permitted or required by law. Examples of instances in which Arkansas Blue Cross and its affiliates will provide information to one another or other third parties are: • To service or process products that you have requested. • To provide information as permitted and required by law to accrediting agencies. • To provide information to comply with federal, state or local laws in an administrative or judicial process.
How We Protect Your Information Arkansas Blue Cross and its affiliates use various security mechanisms to protect your personal data including electronic and physical measures as well as company policies that limit employee access to non-public personal financial information. Improper access and use of confidential information by an employee can result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.
Disclosure of Privacy Notice Arkansas Blue Cross and its affiliates recognize and respect the privacy concerns of potential, current and former customers. Arkansas Blue Cross and its affiliates are committed to safeguarding this information. This Financial Information Privacy Notice is provided to our members as required by state regulation to explain how we handle their non-public financial information. It is also available on our website at arkansasbluecross.com or from our Customer Service call centers. Our Customer Service areas are open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Central time, Monday through Friday.
“OUT OF THE BLUE”
affordable by changing the way we pay for the high cost of specialty care, by “bundling” payments to specialists, hospitals and other medical service providers through a program called the Arkansas Payment Improvement Initiative. These efforts are beginning to show promise toward meeting the objectives of improved cost and quality, and they are the foundation on which a more effective health care system must be built. In considering how health care should be provided to Arkansans going forward, it is important that we build on the innovations already in place. It is important that we do it Arkansas’ way.
Continued FROM page 3
insured patients in order to cover the costs of those who cannot pay, and government programs that pay too little to cover costs. A free market solution will ensure that doctors and hospitals can cover their costs and that those with commercial insurance no longer pay a “hidden tax.” 3. It’s also important that we approach this in a way that is best for Arkansas. Our state has been a laboratory of sorts for innovation designed to improve both the cost and the quality of health care. Working in partnership with state government, doctors and hospitals, Arkansas Blue Cross has been working to lay the foundation for a better health care system. Together, we are protecting access to primary care by creating new, team-based approaches that give patients the additional support they need to be healthy. We are making care more
We have the opportunity to create a better health system by and for Arkansans. At Arkansas Blue Cross, we welcome the opportunity to work with the Health Care Reform Task Force in building a new health care system built on existing Arkansas innovation, free enterprise, personal responsibility and common sense.
CUSTOMER SERVICE NUMBERS May we help?
For customer service, please call:
TOLL FREE Number
Medi-Pak® members ® Medi-Pak Advantage members Medi-Pak® Rx members Arkansas Blue Cross members • Pharmacy questions • Specialty Rx pharmacy questions Arkansas Blue Cross Metallic members (Gold, Silver, Bronze, Catastrophic) • Pharmacy questions Health Advantage members • Pharmacy questions BlueAdvantage members • Pharmacy questions Federal Employee members
1-800-338-2312 1-877-233-7022 1-866-390-3369 1-800-238-8379 1-800-863-5561 1-866-295-2779 1-800-800-4298 1-800-969-3983 1-800-843-1329 1-800-863-5567 1-888-872-2531 1-888-293-3748 1-800-482-6655
Looking for health or dental insurance? We can help! For individuals, families For employer groups*
1-800-392-2583 1-800-421-1112
*Arkansas Blue Cross, Health Advantage and BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas
PAY YOUR
BILL
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 • Fayetteville 516 East Millsap Rd., Suite 103 • Fort Smith 3501 Old Greenwood Rd., Suite 5 • ArkansasBlue — Hot Springs 1635 Higdon Ferry Rd. – Suite J • Jonesboro 707 East Matthews Ave. • Little Rock 601 S. Gaines Street • ArkansasBlue — Lowell 507 W. Monroe Ave. – Suite B • ArkansasBlue — Pine Bluff 509 Mallard Loop Drive • Texarkana 1710 Arkansas Boulevard
1-501-378-2222 1-800-817-7726 1-866-254-9117 1-800-588-5733 1-800-299-4124 1-800-421-1112 1-888-872-2539 1-800-236-0369 1-800-470-9621
Visit our websites for more information:
arkansasbluecross.com • healthadvantage-hmo.com blueadvantagearkansas.com blueandyoufoundationarkansas.org
To pay by phone*, please call 1-800-354-9904 * Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug plan product members must call Customer Service to discuss available payment options. Health Advantage conversion plans are not eligible for online, mobile or pay-by-phone payment option.
Summer 2015 BLUE & YOU
19
Summer 2015 A publication for the policyholders of the Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield family of companies
BOO W I T H
Our second annual “Boo with Blue” will be held at the Museum of Discovery in Little Rock, Friday, October 2, from 6-9 p.m. “Boo with Blue” is free to Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield members. Just show your health insurance ID card for admission. Non-members are invited to stop by any local ArkansasBlue store to pick up free tickets to the Friday, October 2 event starting in September.
BLUE!
6-9 p.m.
Communities all across Arkansas are enjoying new facilities for running, walking and even hiking thanks to the generosity of the Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas.
Are Vaccines Safe?
Mending Jaxon’s Heart
Financial Privacy Information
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MPI 3576 7/15
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