a publication of
l i f e , h e a lt h & w e l l n e s s
We are grateful to have someone
fight for us. How a switch to Network Health provided Terah Bowe and her family with the support system they never knew existed.
S U M M E R
2 0 1 3
from the president
Dear Readers
O
ur mission at Network Health is to enhance the life, health and wellness of the people we serve. Part of that is providing you with valuable information to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle all year round. We encourage you to join us in making a personal commitment to good health. It is our goal to help you stay healthy, and Balance is a tool to help us do Sheila Jenkins just that. So, as you flip President though this issue, try to Network Health remember the tips you read. I hope you find them informative and can apply them whenever helpful. This issue of Balance is full of tips to keep you and your family healthy and safe during the summer months. Whether it’s hitting balls on the golf course or walking the great trails of Wisconsin, it’s important to stay active. Be sure to check out the stories, “Fun in the Sun”
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E DITORIAL STAFF President Sheila Jenkins Chief Administrative Penny Ransom Officer
and “Staying Hydrated,” as these highlight essential steps for a safe and healthy season. When you’re not enjoying the beautiful weather this summer, make sure to check out our redesigned website, networkhealth.com. We’ve given it a new look and feel, making it easier to navigate and find the information you’re looking for, including educational resources on health care reform. Make sure to read the article on page 15 to learn more about our website’s new features. Summer is a wonderful time of year, as the days get longer and the temperatures get warmer, we spend more time with our family and friends—enjoying the great outdoors and all that Wisconsin has to offer. This summer, Network Health will sponsor a float in the 63rd annual Appleton Flag Day Parade. This year’s parade will honor veterans of the Korean War. From all of us at Network Health, we hope you enjoy your summer as much as we enjoy working to make sure you live the healthiest life possible.
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life 3 Fun in the Sun
icking the proper sunscreen for the P summer sun
4 Leave the Worries at Home
Publications Sam Darcy Coordinator Graphic Design Darren Brzozowski Coordinator
E ditorial Board P eggy Huss, David Weiss, Dawn Rady, Deborah Anderson, Renee Corral, Barb Gore, Chuck Rynearson Balance is published quarterly by Network Health. The health information contained in Balance is meant to supplement, not replace, the advice of health care professionals. © 2013 Network Health. No portion of this newsletter may be reproduced without written permission from Network Health.
Tell Us What You Think I f you have questions or suggestions or would like to tell us how Network Health improved your life, send us an email at balance@networkhealth.com. You can also write to us at: Network Health Attention: Sam Darcy 1570 Midway Pl. Menasha, WI 54952
FEATURE 8 The Human Touch
When the Bowe family switched to Network Health, they discovered a whole new support system
Coverage while on vacation
wellness
4 Coverage at College
How your policy covers college students studying outside of Network Health’s service area
health
5 Put a Plan Together
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08
Developing an asthma action plan
6 Spring Cleaning for Your
Medicine Cabinet
Properly disposing of old medications
7 Bone Density Tests
Your guide to understanding bone density tests
12 Steer Clear
Identifying poisonous plants
13 Staying Hydrated
Tips for avoiding dehydration
14 Choosing a Primary Care
Practitioner Who’s Right for You
The importance of having a primary care practitioner
15 Network Health Launches Redesigned Website
We’ve revamped our site with a new look and user-friendly layout networkhealth.com
life Fun in the Sun
Information to help you get the most out of your coverage
Pick the proper sunscreen for protection this summer
A
s the temperatures rise and we spend more time outside, our exposure to the sun also increases. When you reach for a bottle of sunscreen this summer, you’re likely to see references to UVAs, UVBs and SPF. What do these acronyms mean, and what’s the best way to protect yourself from the sweltering summer sun? Let us explain.
What are UV Rays?
Ultraviolet radiation, or UV rays, are the part of the sunlight that reaches the earth. Two types of ultraviolet radiation, UVA and UVB, cause damage to your skin, aging it prematurely and increasing your risk of skin cancer. > UVA – These rays penetrate the skin more deeply, causing tanning as well as wrinkling, leathering, sagging and other aging effects. They also contribute to and initiate the development of skin cancer. > UVB – The main cause of reddening and sunburns, these rays also play a major role in skin cancer.
How should I protect myself from UV Rays?
Anyone over six months old that spends time outdoors should use sunscreen daily. Try to choose a broad spectrum sunscreen, as it offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Remember, an ounce of sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure and again every two hours to ensure you get the SPF’s full protection. Children under six months should not use sunscreen because their skin is sensitive to both the chemical ingredients in sunscreen as well as the sun’s rays. Try to use protective clothing and keep young children shaded.
How do the SPF ratings work?
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures a sunscreen’s ability to prevent UVB rays from damaging your skin. Sunscreens commonly
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come in SPFs 15, 30 and 50. What does this mean? Basically, the number is how long it takes your skin to start getting sunburned. For example, an SPF 15 will delay the reddening so it takes 15 times longer to get a sunburn. You can also gauge SPFs in terms of the percentage of UVB rays they block. SPF 15 filters about 93 percent of rays, while SPF 30 blocks 97 percent and SPF 50 keeps out 98 percent. But remember, no sunscreen can block all UV rays, and no sunscreen is strong enough to last more than two hours without needing reapplication. Although it’s more common in people with light skin, anyone can develop skin cancer. So if you are concerned about a change in your skin, or you just want to know your risks, talk to your doctor.
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Network Health evaluates new technology and new applications of existing technologies on a regular basis. This includes the evaluation of medical procedures, drugs and devices. New technologies are reviewed by a group of participating physicians and health plan staff who make recommendations for inclusion as a covered benefit. The review process also includes evaluation of information from government regulatory bodies and published scientific evidence.
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life { YOUR COVERAGE }
Leave the Worries at Home Y
ou don’t plan on getting injured while on a trip, but because vacations sometimes turn into unexpected adventures, Network Health has you covered when you’re away from home.
Emergencies If you have a medical emergency when you’re out of the service area, you should call 911 or get to the nearest emergency room. You have health care benefits for emergency situations such as heart attacks, excessive bleeding, head traumas, broken bones or seizures. When out of the network area, your coverage allows for an emergency hospitalization until you can be moved to a participating Network Health facility, as long as you let us know about your emergency within 48 hours of entering the hospital. Be sure to show your Network Health member ID card when being seen for care. Urgent Care If you cannot travel safely to get care from your primary care practitioner, your health care benefits allow for urgent care. This type of situation might include a minor injury, stitches, possible strep throat or an ear infection. If you are outside Network Health’s service area and you need to see a doctor, but it isn’t an emergency, you can still visit a hospital or an urgent care center located inside a hospital. However, if the doctor or facility is not in our network, you’ll need to notify us within 48 hours of receiving care. To do so, simply contact our customer service department at 800-826-0940 or 920-720-1300 to request an authorization. Our call center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday. Follow-Up Care Your primary care practitioner or other in-network providers must provide your follow-up care. If this is not possible, and you visit a doctor or hospital not in our network, you’ll need to ask for approval within 48 hours of treatment. Payment for Care Some out-of-area medical facilities not in Network Health’s service area may require you to pay for your care when it is provided. To get reimbursed, send itemized bills and proof of payment within 90 days of receiving care. Send this information to Network Health, Attn: Claims at
Coverage at College I
f your son or daughter is heading off to college in the fall, it’s nice to know your Network Health coverage will go with them. While living away from home, your child is covered for emergencies and urgent care. If your child gets sick or hurt, he or she should go to the college’s medical center, emergency room or an urgent care center located in a hospital. Sometimes, the university’s medical center cost is included in tuition, so there is no additional cost to the student. Find out if your child’s university covers this before classes start. If your college student cannot travel to a hospital and is seen at a clinic, Network Health should be notified within 48 hours. If follow-up care is needed after the emergency or urgent care visit, Network Health must approve it. Your son or daughter can stay on your Network Health plan policy until he or she turns 26. If you have any questions about coverage for your student, call our customer service department at 920-720-1300 or 800-826-0940. Our call center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday.
Get Vaccinated
College students, especially those that live in the dorms, are at an increased risk for meningococcal meningitis. It is a bacterial illness that inflames membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. Without treatment, it can be very harmful or even fatal in some cases. Students who live in dorms are especially susceptible because it’s easy for infections to spread. Fortunately, safe and effective vaccines are available to prevent meningococcal disease. Although it is required by many universities, double check to make sure your child is vaccinated before he or she leaves for school.
1570 Midway Pl., Menasha, WI 54952. 4 | balance • S u m m e r 2 01 3
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health
News and tips to help you maintain a healthy and happy life
Put a Plan Together Take action against asthma
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f you or your child has suffered from asthma in the past, developing an asthma action plan will help to control symptoms and prevent attacks in the future. Having an action plan helps measure your asthma and lets you know exactly what to do when you or your child’s asthma isn’t under control.
What is an asthma action plan?
It’s a personalized worksheet that describes the steps you need to take to prevent your asthma from getting worse. It’s written by your doctor or asthma specialist to inform you, or a family member, of what to do when there are changes to the severity of your symptoms. It also tells you when to call your health care provider or if you should go straight to the emergency room instead.
What’s included in an asthma action plan? Your action plan should include: > Your name > Emergency contact information > Your health care provider’s contact information > Your asthma severity classification > A list of your triggers that may cause an asthma attack
How are asthma action plans designed?
Asthma action plans are divided into three zones. Each zone is designated with a color and represents the severity of your asthma.
Asthma Action Plan Zones This zone should be your target on a daily basis. Here, you have no symptoms and feel good.
Green Zone
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This means that you’re experiencing symptoms. This may include coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. You may also experience nighttime asthma, or have problems with some of your daily activities.
YELLOW Zone
You should call your doctor immediately. This means you are having serious symptoms. Remember, call 911 or go directly to the hospital if you have trouble walking or talking, your lips or fingernails turn blue or if you feel faint.
RED Zone
S ay W h at ?
Peak Flow Rate – Measurement of the obstruction in the airways. You should work with your doctor to determine your asthma zones. He or she will usually base your plan on your symptoms and peak flow rate. Also, remember to regularly use your controller medications as they too will help manage your symptoms. If you or a member of your family with asthma does not have an action plan, contact your doctor today to take the first step toward controlling symptoms. S u m m e r 2 01 3
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health
Bilingual language assistance or translation services are available for members to discuss utilization management issues. Network Health also offers TTY services for deaf, hard of hearing or speech-impaired members. Members who need these services should call 800-947-3529.
Spring Cleaning for Your Medicine Cabinet Properly disposing of old medications
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pring is a great time to clean the house and discard of old, unwanted junk. But, have you ever thought about disposing of your old medications? When cleaning out your medicine cabinet, there are a few things you should know. Here are some answers to common questions you might have.
How long is a drug good for?
There is really no way of knowing if a drug is still 100 percent effective. The expiration date is only accurate for drugs kept in the original, unopened bottle. Once the bottle is opened, the exposure to moisture in the air often causes drugs to expire faster and lose potency. So, if you take a medication that’s essential for a chronic or potentially life-threatening disease, you should get a new prescription once it’s expired.
Can I reuse an old prescription medication?
Outdated drugs can lose their potency and become less effective. And remember, doctors prescribe medications specifically for your conditions and health concerns, so it might not be safe to share prescriptions with someone who appears to have similar symptoms. 6 | balance • S u m m e r 2 01 3
How should I dispose of old medications?
You might think the best way to dispose of old prescriptions is to flush them down the toilet or to simply throw them in the trash. However, these methods could eventually damage the environment, specifically by contaminating ground water. This even goes for common drugs like aspirin. The best way to get rid of old medications is to either bring them back to the pharmacy or use a police collection program, if available. Some pharmacies will take back prescriptions that do not contain controlled substances. To find a listing of participating pharmacies in your area, go to www.disposemymeds.org.
Are there any police drop-off locations nearby?
Many local police departments have drop-off locations for disposal of expired or unwanted medications. Listed in the chart to the right are some collection sites in northeast Wisconsin. This is not a complete list, so to find out if your local police department has a drop-off site, contact them directly.
The next time you are cleaning out unwanted items in your house, include the medicine cabinet, too. Remember, it’s dangerous to leave old medications lying around the house. You never know who might be tempted to abuse them.
Local Drop-off Sites » Appleton Police Department
222 S. Walnut St. (Open 24 hours) » Neenah Police Department 2111 Marathon Ave. (Open 24 hours) » Oshkosh Police Department 420 Jackson St. (Open 24 hours) » Green Bay Police Department 307 S. Adams St. (Open 24 hours) » New London Police Department 700 Shiocton St. (8 a.m. – Midnight, every day) » Seymour Police Department 306 N. Main St. (M-F, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.) » Fond du Lac Police Department 126 N. Main St. (Open 24 hours) » Manitowoc Police Department 910 Jay St. (M-F, 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) » Sheboygan Police Department 1315 N. 23rd St. (Open 24 hours)
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For a complete list of recent changes to our provider network, go to networkhealth.com/providerchanges.
Bone Density Tests I
n the past, you might have heard of a bone density test. Also called a bone mineral density test, this is the only test that can diagnose osteoporosis before you break a bone. It’s an important measure to take as you age—and it’s not just for older adults. Osteoporosis can affect anyone at any age, so it’s important to talk about your risk factors with your doctor. He or she can then determine what age is right for you to have the test. What is a bone density test? A bone density test evaluates the strength of your bones by measuring a small part of one or a few select bones. It usually tests bones that are likely to break from osteoporosis. These include bones located in the spine, hip and forearm. The test uses X-rays to measure the amount of calcium and other minerals in the segment of a bone. Why is it important? A bone density test determines if you have osteoporosis. It does this by measuring your bone mineral content. The higher your bone mineral content, the denser and stronger your bones are. Most people reach their peak bone mass by their early 20s. As people age, bone mass is lost faster than it’s created. Knowing the strength of your bones will help your doctor determine if it’s necessary to recommend steps to prevent osteoporosis, bone loss and fractures. What is involved in a bone density test? Bone density tests are fast, easy and painless. So, virtually no preparation is needed. Usually, you lie down on a platform while a mechanical arm passes over your body. The entire process only lasts about 10 minutes, and it involves less radiation than a chest X-ray.
Anyone over
50 who breaks a bone should have a bone density test within a few months of the fracture. net workhealth.com
How is bone density measured? The results of a bone density test are measured in a T-score and a Z-score. Your T-score measures your bone density against a normal result of a healthy, young adult of your gender. Your Z-score is the difference between your bones and someone of your age, sex, weight and race. For example, -1 and above is a normal T-score, while -2 and above is a normal score Z-score. Who should have a bone density test? Anyone over 50 who breaks a bone should have a bone density test within a few months of the fracture. Also, certain medical conditions and medications can increase your risk for osteoporosis. So, make sure you talk to your doctor to find out your risks, and decide whether you would benefit from a bone density test. S u m m e r 2 01 3
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S T O C O V E R Y
Touch the
human
For the Bowe family, a switch to Network Health gave them a support system they never knew existed.
For Terah Bowe and her husband Brian, the thought of Terah’s employer switching health insurance carriers terrified them. Not just simply a fear of change, but a fear of the unknown and the effects it could have on their family.
By Sam Darcy
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Photographs by Shane Van Boxtel, Image Studios
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S T C O V E R R Y
“I can text, email or call Katie with any questions. She gave me her personal cell phone number and even answers my questions when she’s home from work on a sick day.” “I freaked out,” Terah said. For Terah, a mother of three, a switch meant that her youngest son’s health care could become compromised. Her son Clayton, who suffers from a rare chromosome disorder, was less than a year old and becoming more medically complex as time went on. With his disorder came the need for durable medical equipment and a number of medical specialists. These would all be subject to change with a new insurance carrier. So when her employer, National Exchange Bank and Trust, switched to Network Health, she was apprehensive. “You feel like something is going to fall through the cracks,” Terah said. “I was really stressed and scared because it felt like we were going to have to start all over again.” Prior to switching to Network Health, all of Clayton’s specialists were based out of Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. But Terah immediately realized that new coverage meant Clayton would have a whole new insurance network and a new group of specialists for his medical needs. “With his disorder being so rare it was very scary, especially because his specialists knew him so well,” she said. So as soon as she and her family enrolled with Network Health, Terah called to find out more information. Immediately, she 10 | balance • S u m m e r 2 01 3
connected with Network Health Care Management Coordinator Katie Doyle Beneke. “Most parents never want to leave their specialists. Moving to a new provider is a challenge because they have developed a trust,” Katie said. “My job is to help them see that our resources are a benefit and will cost less over time.” Katie transferred Clayton’s records to his new specialists at UW Health in Madison, Network Health’s partner for specialty care, and provided Terah with the names of the specialists. She also worked to coordinate all of Clayton’s initial appointments at UW Health. “Katie helped to re-establish everything,” Terah said. “She even made sure we could keep some of our appointments in Milwaukee until we felt comfortable to make the entire switch to UW Health.” Katie also transferred Clayton’s medical equipment and supplies to new in-network carriers. “With Katie being an R.N., she knows all the details and care Clay needs,” Terah said. “It was stressful because there were orders, like food, that Clayton absolutely needs, and Katie made sure everything was taken care of.” As Clayton had more and more hospital stays, Terah received more and more calls from Katie, checking in on test results and making sure everything was OK. Terah soon realized what an accessible and invaluable resource she had in Katie. “I can text, email or call Katie with any questions,” she said. “She gave me her personal cell phone number and even answers my questions when she’s home from work on a sick day.” networkhealth.com
Katie credits Terah for her communication too, referring to her as a “mama bear” taking care of her family. “Terah is an advocate for her child,” Katie said. “She researches to know everything and reaches out for resources.” As Clayton’s needs have changed, Terah has always had Katie to consult with. Like when Clayton became sick with pneumonia, Katie made sure that he had the respiratory equipment at home in a matter of days, literally saving him from having to be hospitalized, Terah said. “This family is special because Clayton’s condition is so unique, and no one knows what the future holds for him,” Katie said. “So, we take it as it comes and get him the best care possible.” Terah said that Katie almost feels like part of her family, acknowledging that she knows more about the Bowe’s than some of their own relatives. “As a parent of a special needs child with a three and five year old too, having someone like Katie is a blessing like no other,” she said. “Sometimes, you are at your wits end with things and I don’t know how I could do this without her.”
“I would be too scared to leave Network Heath because you can’t lose good insurance when you have a child like Clay. What would we get anywhere else?” Katie said the ability to build a personal relationship with Terah has helped them work together to find resources and understanding. “There’s been a lot of working and learning together with this family, trying to see what we can do to help Clayton and get him the best care,” Katie said. “The Bowe’s deserve the best and it’s my job to make sure they get it.” Terah said she never thought that nurses worked for insurance companies, but having a support system like Katie has helped her family tremendously. “We feel grateful for someone to fight for us,” Terah said. “Katie didn’t know who we were, but she did anything to help Clayton. You don’t get that anywhere else.” A mother and nurse, who were complete strangers just a little over a year ago, now share a bond through finding the best care for Clayton. And while Terah doesn’t know what she would do without Katie’s help, Katie is gratified to know that she’s able to help. “My reward comes when the families are comforted by our outreach and support, and we achieve a balance between what the family needs and what Network Health can provide,” Katie said. “This family is fantastic, they warm my heart.” net workhealth.com
S ay W h at ?
Durable Medical Equipment – Any type of medical equipment used in the home to enhance the quality of life.
A
while back, Terah and Brian had to make a decision on what would be best for their family. Terah wondered if it would be best for her to stay home full-time and take care of Clayton and his two older brothers. Of course, this meant the Bowe’s would have to go on Brian’s insurance, which is a larger carrier, meaning they’d lose the personal service and attention Network Health provides. Changing insurance carriers also meant losing Katie, and possibly their specialists at UW Health. The Bowe’s realized that their connection with Katie and Network Health was too important to their family, and to Clayton’s care, to just give up. “I would be too scared to leave Network Heath because you can’t lose good insurance when you have a child like Clay,” she said. “What would we get anywhere else?” S u m m e r 2 01 3
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wellness Steer Clear
Tools to empower your personal health
Identifying Poisonous Plants
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ost everyone knows to avoid poison ivy, or any other poisonous plant. Although we know these plants can make us feel miserable, many of us don’t know what these plants look like, what causes the rashes and what to do if you come in contact with them. Here’s a quick review.
“Leaves of three, let them be”
Poison Ivy
Poison Ivy – Usually found as a shrub in forests, along fence lines and in deserted areas, it always grows in sets of three leaflets. It will produce whitish berries as early as late summer and turn red in the fall. Poison Oak – Similar to poison ivy, this usually grows as a three-leaf shrub. The main difference from poison ivy is that the leaflets have more lobes on them. Poison Sumac – Mostly found in wet, swampy areas, this plant can grow to be 20 feet tall. The leaflets grow in clusters of 7-13. This is one of the most poisonous plants in the area, so it’s important to be able to identify and avoid it.
What causes the rash?
The rash caused by these plants comes from an oil present on the leaves, stem, berries, roots and flowers. The oil, called urushiol, causes an allergic reaction from both direct and indirect contact. So, you can potentially get a rash from touching anything that came into contact with the plant, like your dog, a gardening tool or piece of clothing. However, because urushiol is an allergen, not everyone who touches it gets a rash.
Symptoms
Poison Oak
The usual symptoms of urushiol reaction include: >> Itchy skin >> Redness >> Small bumps or hives >> Blisters filled with fluid The rash usually occurs eight to 48 hours after contact, but can appear anywhere from five hours to 15 days after contact with the plant. One misconception is that the rash is contagious. Once the urushiol is absorbed or washed off the skin, it can’t be spread, even if you touch the rash. If the rash continues to spread, it is still developing or you are still coming into contact with something that has urushiol on it.
What if I come into contact with these plants?
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If left untreated, the rash will usually last anywhere from 10 to 21 days. But, if you know you’ve come into contact with any of these plants, wash your exposed skin with rubbing alcohol. Then, wash the skin with water. Don’t use soap until after you’ve done this because soap will just move the oils around your body. Finally, take a shower with soap and water. Remember, if your reaction to the plant becomes severe and widespread or you develop a fever greater than 100 F, you should contact your doctor immediately. Also, if your rash doesn’t clear up within a few weeks, you should call for an appointment. networkhealth.com
Staying Hydrated W ater covers about 70 percent of the earth and makes up about 60 percent of our bodies. But with water everywhere, we still need to make an effort to drink enough each day, especially in the summer months.
How do you become dehydrated?
Dehydration occurs when you lose more fluids than you take in. If you don’t replace lost fluids, your body can’t carry out its normal functions.
Who is at the greatest risk for dehydration?
Anyone can suffer from dehydration, but certain people are at greater risk. Infants and children – With a small body weight, children need to be careful not to lose too many fluids. Older adults – Your body’s ability to conserve water reduces with age. If you have an elderly family member, keep an eye on his or her fluid intake because older people tend to eat and drink less than younger people. People with chronic illnesses – You’re less likely to eat or drink when feeling sick. Endurance athletes – The longer you exercise, the harder it is to stay hydrated. During exercise, your body may lose more water than it can absorb. People exposed to hot/humid weather – It takes longer for your body to cool itself in humid weather, which leads to an increased body temperature and the need for more fluids.
Signs of dehydration > > >
Fatigue Loss of appetite Light-headedness
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Dark-colored urine Headache Constipation Dry mouth Seek immediate medical attention if you experience extreme thirst, a lack of urination, shriveled skin, dizziness and confusion. > > > >
How do you avoid dehydration?
The best way to avoid dehydration is to simply drink water. Certain foods, such as fruits and vegetables, also provide sources of water. Remember, alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, such as coffee and soda, will actually pull water from your body and promote dehydration. And, consuming caffeine-packed energy drinks before, during or after sports can also worsen dehydration. So, water is your best option.
Not drinking enough water? Here are some tips to help you get more water throughout the day.
» »
» »
Drink a glass of water with every meal Keep a bottle or cup of water at your desk to sip throughout the day Replace soda with flavored water Snack on fresh fruits and vegetables, which have a higher water content
For a healthy adult, your thirst can serve as an adequate guideline for dehydration. But, if you’re exercising or out in the sun, you shouldn’t wait for thirst before you drink fluids. So, remember to stay hydrated, and the summer sun won’t get the best of you S u m m e r 2 01 3
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wellness Self-Management Workshops Summer Schedule For more information or to sign up for a workshop, call us at 920-720-1655 or 800-769-3186, extension 01655. Or, visit us at networkhealth.com/workshops. Living Well with Diabetes This workshop meets once a week for six weeks. Mercy Medical Center, Classroom One 500 S. Oakwood Rd., Oshkosh, WI 54904 Meets Mondays, June 10 - July 15 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Choosing a Primary Care Practitioner Who’s Right for You
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ave you wondered why Network Health continually wants to know who your primary care practitioner is? There are a number of reasons why we ask, but we just want to make sure you have one main doctor to coordinate your health care. Why is it important to have a primary care practitioner? > You immediately know where to turn when health concerns arise. > A practitioner you know can recommend the best specialists for you. > Your medications can be better supervised. > Your health records are in a single, central location. “The personal relationship you develop with your primary care practitioner is invaluable,” said Dr. Edward Scanlan, medical director at Network Health with over 30 years experience. “By knowing you on a personal level, your doctor will be able to provide the best care for you.” How do I choose one? According to Dr. Thomas Zoch, associate medical director for Network Health, you 14 | balance • S u m m e r 2 01 3
should consider these questions when choosing a primary care practitioner: > What type of practitioner will best fit me (family practice, general practice or internal medicine)? > Is the practitioner credentialed or board certified in his or her specialty? > Do they specialize in more than one area? > Is the practitioner in my health plan’s network? (To find a list of doctors, see our provider directory online at networkhealth.com by using the Find a Doctor tool.) > What are the practitioner’s hours? > Is the practitioner’s facility easily accessible? > Who fills in when the practitioner is not available? > What is the practitioner’s personality and can I see us developing a good relationship? “Before choosing a doctor you should try to meet him or her in person,” said Dr. Zoch. “This extra step will ensure that you feel comfortable with your choice and help you rest easy knowing that you are getting the right care.”
C.O.P.E with COPD Education and support to help with chronic lung disease. Oshkosh Senior Center 234 N. Campbell Rd., Oshkosh, WI 54902 Second Tuesday of every month, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Better Breathers A community-wide support group for people with COPD and other chronic lung diseases. Families and caregivers are welcome to attend. St. Elizabeth Hospital, Fowler Conference Rooms 1506 S. Oneida St., Appleton, WI 54915 Meets the fourth Wednesday of every month. Summer class dates are June 26 and Aug. 28. 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. program, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. social hour
The 2013 Fox Cities Marathon Network Health is a proud sponsor of the 2013 Fox Cities Marathon. This year we will be the main sponsor of the Health and Wellness Expo. So come check us out on September 20-21 and learn about the latest products, samples and developments in sports, fitness and nutrition. To learn more about the marathon and weekend events, visit foxcitiesmarathon.org.
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Network Health Launches Redesigned Website
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f you’ve recently visited our website, networkhealth.com, hopefully you noticed some drastic changes. Two weeks ago, we launched our redesigned website, complete with a fresh look and feel. In addition to the clean design, the site is reorganized to provide a user-friendly layout. This allows easy navigation for our members, providers, agents and those shopping for health insurance. As a member, you still have easy access to your member sign in, but with our new Member’s Corner page you also have a centralized location for the tools and resources included with your plan. Here you can find information on your prescription drug benefits, links to our care and condition management programs as well as a log in to your personalized plan information. We’ve also improved our Find a Doctor and Find a Facility searches, giving you the option to narrow down your search and find detailed information, including links to view physicians’ credentials. “The ease of navigation and improved features will further allow us to offer our members the best service possible,” said Sheila Jenkins, president of Network Health. The new website also aims to educate, through our new Understanding Health Insurance page. Here you will find a term of the day and an online translator where we translate insurance terms into plain language. More importantly, this section will hold information
net workhealth.com
and updates on health care reform. As changes to the health insurance landscape evolve, look to this section for updates on how you may be affected. The redesign of networkhealth.com further represents our promise to be more than a typical health insurance company. It is another way for us to improve service and your experience with Network Health.
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balance | 15
1570 Midway Pl. Menasha, WI 54952
Ensuring YOUR HEALTH
AT NETWORK HEALTH, Wellness is the Goal. By engaging our customers and listening to what they want, we can design unique programs that empower and reward. The results? Better health and lower costs. Maybe that’s why most Network Health customers actually use our wellness programs. That’s what a health insurance plan should do, help ensure your health.
networkhealth.com
800-826-0940
MO plans underwritten by Network Health Plan. POS plans underwritten by Network Health Insurance Corporation, or Network H Health Insurance Corporation and Network Health Plan. Self-funded HMO and POS plans administered by Network Health Plan.
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