Compass Outreach Compass Outreach
SUMMER 2011
Service.
inside this issue: Meet Your Member Rep... 2 Community Outreach.... 3 Buzz Worthy News........ 4-6 What’s Up Doc?.............. 7 Health Tips..................... 8-9 Social Media............. 10-11 Health Tips...................... 12 Exercise Your Mind........ 13 Spotlight on Medicare...14-16 Specialty Products... 17-19
Help Us, Help You! Turn to page 11 to learn how you could be one of three lucky CRBG
Stability.
Security.
Compass Rose Benefits Group Call for Candidates Compass Rose Benefits Group (CRBG) is actively seeking eligible candidates for its 2011 Board of Directors. The Board is comprised of four retiree and three active employees as well as an appointed Industry Expert and Medical Advisor that are elected by their peers. All Board duties are voluntary and nonpaid. The Board meets approximately six times a year in Reston, VA, and plays an important role in ensuring that all CRBG products and services are responsive to the unique population in which they exclusively cater. This year, the Board of Directors Election will be held in August. Elected candidates will serve a three-year term beginning October 2011. One active and one retiree position is open to all eligible candidates. Eligible candidates include all employees and retirees of the Intelligence Community (IC), Department of Defense (DoD), and Department of State who are actively enrolled in at least one CRBG plan. CRBG plans include the Compass Rose Health Plan, Group Term Life Insurance underwritten by New York Life (formerly UBLIC), Long Term Disability (LTD), and the Group Accident Plan (GAP). All eligible candidates interested in running for a 2011 CRBG Board of Director position must submit a brief personal biography of 550 words or less, which includes a statement of interest as to why you want to serve on the Board, via e-mail at boardelections@compassrosebenefits.com or mail to Compass Rose Benefits Group, 1768 Business Center Drive, Suite 3500, Reston, VA 20190, ATTN: Board Elections.
members to win a $50 Amazon.com gift card!
Deadline for candidate applications: August 1, 2011
Meet Your Member ServiceS Representative Hello members! My name is Amanda Heiner and I am one of the Member Services Representatives at Compass Rose Benefits Group (CRBG). My position within the company is to assist you with all administrative changes and inquiries regarding your enrollment in our CRBG products and services. My goal is to provide you with accurate information in a timely manner. I have over eleven years of experience working in the Health Insurance Industry, specializing more specifically in the field of member services and claims processing. Due to my extensive background in member services, I have acquired the knowledge
necessary to assist members on specific health, dental, and pharmaceutical inquiries. In addition, my prior experience as a Claims Examiner has given me extensive insight on the technological aspects of both the Health and Dental Insurance Industry. In my spare time I lead an active lifestyle and believe in embracing not only good physical health, but also mental health. I am enthusiastic about yoga and I can often be seen jogging around my neighborhood! I also find reading novels and completing crossword puzzles to be extremely therapeutic, and I thoroughly enjoy whipping
up new healthy recipes! With that said, I would like to share with you my favorite healthy summer Teriyaki and Pineapple Chicken Recipe. Bon Appetit!
My Healthy Recipe Teriyaki and Pineapple Chicken Amount per Serving: Calories: 187 | Total Fat: 5.5g | Cholesterol: 35mg Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Ingredients: • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1/2 pound skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes • 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced thin • 1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced thin • 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced thin • 1/2 cup and 2 tablespoons sliced fresh mushrooms • 1/2 onion, chopped • 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce • 1/2 (8 ounce) can pineapple chunks, undrained • 1/4 teaspoon fresh garlic (approximately 1 large clove) • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2
Directions: 1.) H eat the oil in a wok or large skillet over mediumhigh heat. Cook the chicken until no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, approximately 7-10 minutes. 2.) P lace the green bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, red bell pepper, mushrooms, onion, teriyaki sauce, pineapple chunks with the juice, garlic, and crushed red pepper into the wok, and turn the heat to medium. Bring to a simmer, stir in the flour, and continue simmering 15 minutes until thickened. 3.) Serve over brown rice or delicious by itself!
Community Compass Outreach
Compass Rose Benefits Group Gives the Gift of Life According to the American Red Cross, every minute of every day, someone needs blood. Each year, over 4 million people give blood through the Red Cross, making it the largest supplier of blood and blood products in the United States. In addition to domestic disaster relief, did you know that the American Red Cross also offers compassionate services in five other areas? These areas include: 1.) Community services that help the less fortunate 2.) Support and comfort for military members and their families 3.) The collection, processing, and distribution of lifesaving blood and blood products 4.) Educational programs that promote health and safety 5.) International relief and development programs
On Tuesday June 14, 2011, Compass Rose Benefits Group (CRBG) joined the American Red Cross in their efforts to help save lives by hosting its first annual CRBG Blood Drive! We would like to express our sincerest gratitude to all of the individuals who voluntarily donated blood. It is because of your selfless contributions that we were able to make a difference. If you would like to learn more ways on how you can give the gift of life by donating blood, or would like to financially donate to the humanitarian work of the Red Cross, visit www.redcrossblood.org or call (800) 733-2767.
Member Feedback! “It’s crisp, clean, attractive and professional. As As the Editor, I want to an editor myself, I am always pleased when I read personally thank those who a publication and can find no mistakes! I wish the Washington Post was as accurate.” provided comments on our
-Katherine S.
“This was the first time I actually read it cover to cover and I look forward to the next issue.” -Karen H.
last publication. I encourage you to continue sending me your newsletter feedback. We enjoy hearing from our members!
“Reading it gave me good health information but also allowed me to feel a closer relationship with the employees of CRBG.”
-Anitra M.
“Your new pub is excellent. Professional looking but more important – informative and useful. Count me as a retiree fan.”
Meaghan Greaney feedback@compassrosebenefits.com (800) 769-6953
-Mike O.
3
Buzz Worthy News
Compass Rose Benefits Group Joins the GO GREEN Initiative Over the past few decades, the public’s perception surrounding the benefits of environmental protection has changed dramatically. Unfortunately, we can no longer ignore the harmful effects we have caused to our planet. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the world population reached 1 billion people in 1800; 2 billion by 1922; and over 6 billion by 2000. If this rate continues, it is estimated that the population will increase to over 9 billion by 2050. As the world population continues to expand at a mind-boggling rate, it is inevitable that more lands will be destroyed, more waters will be polluted, and our technology will continue to advance in order to accommodate the growing masses of people. Our planet only has a fixed amount of natural resources - land, water, plants, animals, and air – that are meant to sustain all life on Earth. Sadly, many of these fixed amounts of natural resources have already been depleted. Many well-documented observations published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) show that fossil fuel burning, de-forestation, and other industrial processes are rapidly increasing the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases in our atmosphere, which is one of the main contributors to global climate change. USDA studies also show that 1995-2004 was the warmest decade worldwide in the last 1,000-2,000 years and that 9 of the 10 warmest years on record have occurred since 1996.
4
As a result, today’s generations no longer have the luxury of living in a world filled with abundant resources either because prior generations were unaware of the harmful effects their actions were having on the planet, or because they simply chose to ignore the warning signs. The Go Green Initiative argues that our everyday choices and behaviors have a ripple effect that reaches worldwide. What we buy, what we do or do not recycle, and what we “throw away” have an impact on an ever more interconnected planet. If we intend to leave our children and grandchildren with the same standard of living we have enjoyed, we must preserve the foundation of that standard of living. Even in challenging economic times, many families still save for college educations, orthodontia, and even weddings – but what about saving for clean air, water, fuel sources, and soil for future generations? So what’s being done? In the last four decades, Congress has passed The Clean Air Act, The Clean Water Act, and founded the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In February 2009, Congress also passed The Recovery Act. More recently, in October 2009, President Barack Obama signed an Executive Order that directed Federal agencies to reduce their greenhouse gas pollution, meet energy, water, and waste reduction targets, and leverage Federal purchasing power to promote environmentallyresponsible products and technologies. With more than 1.8 million civilian employees, 500,000 buildings, and $500 billion in annual purchasing power, the Federal Government has an obligation to lead by example when it comes to its environmental, energy, and economic performance.
Buzz Worthy News
This year, in their continuing efforts to lead by example, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has mandated that all Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) members receive their 2012 OPM Health Benefits Brochure electronically. However, you will still be able to receive a printed copy upon request. Prior to Open Season, you will be notified by mail with further instructions on how to request your Brochure electronically or in print. All members who elected to “go green” last year will automatically continue to receive their Brochures electronically. During Open Season, a summary of benefits will also be communicated which will highlight any changes in 2012 along with any rate changes. If you fail to notify us requesting a printed copy of the 2012 OPM Health Benefits Brochure prior to Open Season, you will still be able to access the Brochure by visiting our website at www.compassrosebenefits.com/Brochure. As we have done in the past, the Brochure will continue to be available online throughout the year.
On a final note, as you take time to digest these upcoming changes, we encourage you to think of any small changes you can make in your everyday life that would help preserve our planet for future generations. “As we continue to tackle our environmental challenges, it’s clear that change won’t come from Washington alone. It will come from Americans across the country who take steps in their own homes and their own communities to make that change happen.” -- President Barack Obama
SOURCES: The Go Green Initiative The GreenGov Challenge, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Whitehouse.gov
5
Buzz Worthy News One Big Happy Family!
Compass Rose Benefits Group (CRBG) is excited to announce that this is the first Compass Connection Newsletter mailed to members enrolled in our Specialty Products (Life, Disability, and Accident Insurance)! In the past, our newsletter has only been mailed to our Compass Rose Health Plan members. However, this year, we are pleased to distribute the Compass Connection to our entire CRBG member population!
Get Fit with GlobalFit Beach season is upon us and accepting and loving your body, no matter what the size, is important! Summer is the time of year when people of all ages are forced to take a good hard look into the mirror of truth and ask themselves: Do I like what I see? Did that New Year’s resolution pay off? Answering these kinds of questions honestly can be challenging for many people. If you don’t like your answers to these questions, it is important to remember that it is never too late to start living a healthier lifestyle! Becoming healthier begins by first adopting a healthy and positive attitude about yourself. Do not allow your size or the number on the scale to determine how you allow others to see you, or more importantly how you see yourself. This summer, GlobalFit is offering all Compass Rose Health Plan members a second chance to begin living a healthier lifestyle at a reduced rate! Beginning July 5 – August 31, you and your covered dependents have the opportunity to enroll in GlobatFit’s 12-Week Body Challenge! Interested in participating? Here’s how it works: 1.) Join one of the over 10,000 participating GlobalFit gyms by visiting www.compassrosebenefits.com/GlobalFit and enter code 12WC2011 to receive a discount for a one-time activation fee as low as $9. 2.) Once you have joined, log each of your workouts on your personalized GlobalFit webpage. Each week, for a total of 12 weeks, you will receive an e-mail containing exercise and nutrition tips as well as words of encouragement. 3.) I f you log 25 workouts in 12 weeks, you will receive a $25 Amazon.com gift card! So this summer, take the 12-Week Body Challenge and change your life for the better by adopting new healthy behaviors and finally making your health a priority! The next time you find yourself looking into that mirror of truth, love what you see looking back at you. If you have additional questions regarding GlobalFit’s 12-Week Body Challenge, please contact a GlobalFit Representative at (800) 294-1500.
6
Compass WHAT’S Outreach UP DOC? Diagnosing Diabetes According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes is a group of diseases characterized by high blood glucose levels that result from defects in the body’s ability to produce and/or use insulin. Each year, diabetes claims more lives than breast cancer and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) combined. Today, 25.8 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes. However, of those, only 18.8 million are diagnosed - leaving 7 million people undiagnosed and untreated. Type 1 diabetes, or juvenile diabetes, is usually diagnosed in children and young adults. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. Fortunately, with the help of insulin therapy and other treatments, type 1 diabetes can usually be managed. Common symptoms of type 1 diabetes include: • • • • •
Frequent urination Unusual thirst Extreme hunger Unusual weight loss Extreme fatigue and irritability
What is Insulin? Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches, and other food into energy needed for daily life.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Common symptoms of type 2 diabetes include: • • • • • •
Any of the type 1 symptoms listed above Frequent infections Blurred vision Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal Tingling/numbness in the hands/feet Recurring skin, gum, or bladder infections
Unfortunately, type 2 diabetes often goes undiagnosed because many people do not experience any symptoms or the symptoms they do experience appear harmless. You can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes by changing your diet, increasing your level of physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight. However, as with many diseases, there are often warning signs. Before developing type 2 diabetes, many people have “prediabetes.” Nearly 79 million people in the United States have blood glucose levels that are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. The following three tests, which should be administered by your local health care provider, measure your blood glucose levels and determine whether you have a normal metabolism, or whether you have prediabetes or diabetes: • The A1C test • The fasting plasma glucose test (FPG) • The oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, we encourage you to contact your local health care provider to discuss the latest medical therapies and approaches, as well as healthy lifestyle choices. Even though diabetes is a common disease, every individual case is different and requires unique care. If you have additional questions concerning diabetes or would simply like to learn more, please visit www.diabetes.org or call (800) 342-2383.
SOURCE: American Diabetes Association
7
HEALTH TIPS Quick Health Plan Facts To Know! Who is my health plan? The Compass Rose Health Plan Who is my insurance network provider? UnitedHealthcare Who processes and pays my medical claims? InforMed
Clarifying the Names and Roles As your health plan provider, it is our responsibility to answer any questions or concerns you have regarding your health care benefits. Because there have been member questions regarding the relationship between the Compass Rose Health Plan, UnitedHealthcare, and InforMed, we would like to take time to break down the differences and help alleviate any further confusion. Who is the Compass Rose Health Plan? The Compass Rose Health Plan is a Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) fee-for-service plan that caters exclusively to civilian employees and retirees of the Intelligence Community (IC), Department of Defense (DoD), and Department of State. When should I contact a Compass Rose Member Services Representative? You should contact a Member Services Representative when: • You need to update your member information (i.e. change of address, enrollment changes, adding a dependent) • You need additional health plan information or brochures mailed to you • You have comments or suggestions that you feel would better help us serve your health care needs • Y ou have questions on any of our Specialty Products. Specialty Products include Group Term Life Insurance underwritten by New York Life (formerly UBLIC), Long Term Disability (LTD), Group Accident Plan (GAP), and Travel Insurance. How do I contact a Compass Rose Member Services Representative? To contact a Member Services Representative, please call (800) 769-6953 or e-mail askCRBG@compassrosebenefits.com. To avoid claims processing delays, please do not e-mail your specific claim inquires to us. Instead, please forward such inquires to InforMed. Who is UnitedHealthcare? UnitedHealthcare (UHC) is the nationwide Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) network of providers and facilities that powers the Compass Rose Health Plan. UHC does not process member claims. The UHC Network consists of over 600,000 doctors and more than 5,000 hospitals. A PPO network allows you the freedom to be seen by any provider, whether in-network or out-of-network. However, it is always more cost effective if you remain in-network. Reminder: If you are enrolled in Medicare B, your providers do not need to be participating UHC providers for you to receive maximum benefits. Medicare B members have the freedom to be seen by any participating Medicare provider, whether PPO, non-PPO, or out-of-network WITHOUT penalty. Medicare will provide your primary coverage and the Compass Rose Health Plan will waive medical co-pays and your deductible. You can verify that your providers are Medicare participating physicians by visiting www.medicare.gov/physician/search/physicianhome.asp. When should I contact UnitedHealthcare? As a Compass Rose Health Plan member, there is no reason to contact UHC. How do I search for a participating UnitedHealthcare provider? To search for a participating UHC provider, visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/UHC. This useful tool allows you to search our large network of doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Because providers have the option to go in-network and out-of-network as they choose, it is important to always contact your provider to verify that they are still currently part of the UHC Network.
8
HEALTH TIPS Who is InforMed? InforMed is the third party administrator (TPA) for the Compass Rose Health Plan. They process our member claims and handle pre-certification’s and benefit inquires. When should I contact InforMed? You should contact a Compass Rose Health Plan Member Services Representative at InforMed when: • You want to check on the status of a claim • You have questions concerning your health care benefits • You want to verify how much of your deductible has been met • You need to obtain pre-certification for inpatient hospitalizations • You need additional assistance locating a participating UHC provider or facility • You want to nominate a provider for the PPO network • You have questions regarding your prescription drug co-pays • You need to order a replacement member identification (ID) card or have questions regarding your ID card • You have questions regarding your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) • You have questions regarding your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and claims processing How do I contact InforMed? To contact a Compass Rose Health Plan Member Services Representative at InforMed, please call (877) 531-1159. Please mail all claims to: Compass Rose Health Plan P.O. Box 6430 Annapolis, MD 21401 PLEASE NOTE: Claims not mailed to the address above will result in claims processing delays. We hope we were able to help clarify any confusion you may have experienced regarding the relationship between the Compass Rose Health Plan, UnitedHealthcare, and InforMed. Your membership is important to us and we look forward to continuing to serve you in the future!
Friendly Reminder to Our Members on the Move As your health plan provider, we need to be notified when you move! If you have recently relocated, you can conveniently update your personal information by: Option 1: Contacting a Member Services Representative at (800) 769-6953. Option 2: Completing the Change of Address Form found on our website at www.compassrosebenefits.com/Address. Upon completion, please fax the you change your REMINDER: If y Form to (571) 204-0633 or mail to: ur parent Agenc Compass Rose Benefits Group 1768 Business Center Drive, Suite 3500 Reston, VA 20190
address with yo l ce of Personne or with the Offi ), PM Management (O is Benefits Group Compass Rose NOT notified.
9
SOCIAL MEDIA Exploring the World of Social Media The way we communicate to one another has changed more in the last five years than in the preceding 100 years because of social media. Today, we no longer search for the news - the news finds us! Social media is the online media where news, photos, videos, and podcasts are made public through various social media websites. More simply, social media describes the millions of conversations people are having with one another around the world 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. This year, Compass Rose Benefits Group (CRBG) is exploring the possibility of utilizing social media networks to further enhance communication between us and our members! Social media has a number of characteristics that make it different from traditional media such as newspapers, television, books, and radio.
Did You Know?
According to ComScore, Facebook is the leading social media networking site based on monthly unique visitors. Even though over 50% of the world’s population is under the age of 30, the fastest growing population on Facebook is women 55-65 years of age!
Typically, traditional media is a one-way conversation between a business and their customers. However, with social media the power has shifted to the customer because they have the opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings directly with a business in real time. As a result, a two-way conversation is introduced between businesses and their customers. Top 3 Reasons Social Media Networks Would Benefit Compass Rose Benefits Group Members: 1.) Social media networks would allow personal interaction between members, potential members, and a Compass Rose Member Services Representative more often and in real time. 2.) Social media networks would allow you the opportunity to provide constructive and honest feedback quickly and conveniently. 3.) S ocial media networks would allow you to stay up-to-date on all CRBG products and services.
NOW WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK!!! At CRBG, we are always looking for new ways to enhance communication. Because we value your feedback, we encourage you to complete our Social Media Survey. In order to best accommodate all of our members, we have included two convenient options for taking our Social Media Survey: Option 1: Complete the enclosed Social Media Survey. Upon completion, mail the postage paid survey back to us! Option 2: Complete the Social Media Survey online by visiting www.compassrosebenefits.com/SocialMedia.
Three lucky members who complete our Social Media Survey will WIN a $50
Amazon.com gift card! 10
Deadline for Social Media Survey: August 20, 2011
SOCIAL MEDIA SURVEY Compass Outreach detach and return
1 2 3 4 5
How often do you participate in social media networks? a. Always (I’m addicted!) b. Frequently (A couple times per day) c. Occasionally (A few times per week) d. Rarely (A few times per month) e. Never Which of the following social media networks do you use? Please select all that apply. a. Facebook b. Twitter c. Blog d. LinkedIn e. Wikipedia f. Other _________________ g. I don’t use social media networks
How interested would you be communicating to a Compass Rose Member Services Representative through social media networks? a. Very interested b. Somewhat interested c. Indifferent d. Not interested at all. I prefer receiving printed material by mail.
6 7 8 9 10
Which do you MOST prefer for communicating? Please select one. a. Facebook b. Twitter c. Blog d. LinkedIn e. Wikipedia f. Other _________________ g. I don’t use social media networks
If you do not participate in social media networks, why not? a. No interest b. No computer c. It’s too confusing d. Prefer privacy e. No time f. Other __________________
How interested would you be in participating in a random focus group regarding social media? a. Very interested – Definitely contact me! b. Somewhat interested c. Indifferent d. Not interested at all – Lose my number
The current amount of printed information you receive by mail from Compass Rose Benefits Group (CRBG) is: a. Far too much b. A little too much c. Just right d. Not quite enough e. Far too little
To help understand demographic differences in using social media, which age bracket do you fit into? a. 18-25 b. 26-45 c. 46-64 d. 65-84 e. Older than 85
How much did the 2011 Health Benefits Brochure cost to print in 2010? a. $5,000 b. $10,000 c. $20,000 d. $34,000 e. I’m not sure
Every year, over 3 million pieces of paper, roughly _________________ trees, are used to print the OPM Brochure for our members. a. 20 b. 45 c. 60 d. 80 e. I’m not sure Step 1: Complete Survey
Easy Instructions! Step 2: Detach Page
Thank you for participating. Your feedback is important to us. In order to be entered into our drawing to WIN a $50 Amazon.com gift card, YOU MUST provide the following contact information. However, surveys will still be accepted without providing your contact information.
Step 3: Fold in Half Step 4: Tape Together Step 5: Drop in the Mail!
____________________________________________________________________________________ Last Name First MI ________________________ Phone Number
____________________________________ E-mail Address
To find the answers to #9 and #10, turn to page 12 in your Compass Connection!
11
HEALTH TIPS
If you found yourself sneezing and coughing more than usual this allergy season, you are not alone. Even though this year has proven to be the worst year for allergy sufferers on record – there is help! The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved all brand Allegra and generic fexofenadine products to be sold without a prescription from your doctor. You can now obtain brand and generic Allegra products over-the-counter at your local pharmacy. To learn more about the prescription drug Allegra, contact your local health care provider or visit www.allegra.com.
detach and return
Over-the-Counter Allergy Relief
Rethinking Your Radiology Facility Due to the challenges that can arise and the costs that can be incurred when making an appointment with a radiologist, it is important that your preferred radiology facility offers the most modern equipment for your MRIs, CT and PET scans. Using state-of-the-art equipment may help detect diseases sooner, significantly improve the images obtained, and possibly reduce your chances of having to repeat a scan; therefore, ultimately helping save you money on your out-of-pocket expenses. The use of modern equipment allows radiologists the immediate ability to read digital x-rays. This also benefits you, the patient, by speeding your diagnosis and treatment. “Utilizing today’s newest technology digitizes what otherwise would be put on film,” states Mark Turner, Chief Executive Officer at San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital. Another advantage of digital radiology, because of computer enhancements, allows facilities to transmit x-rays and other images via the Internet to anywhere in the world. In addition, new equipment helps alleviate the need for scans to be re-taken, resulting in less overall exposure to the patient. Produced by DAZzle Designer, Version 9.0.05 (c) 1993-2009, Endicia, www.Endicia.com U.S. Postal Service, Serial #
Artwork for Envelope, Business, #9, 3 7/8 x 8 7/8 in (3.875" x 8.875") Layout: BRM NO 9 ENVELOPE.LYT July 30, 2009
Social Media Survey Answers: 9.) D and 10.) D
Artwork for Envelope, Business, #9, 3 7/8 x 8 7/8 in (3.875" x 8.875") Layout: BRM NO 9 ENVELOPE.LYT July 30, 2009 work for Envelope, Business, #9, 3 7/8 x 8 7/8 in (3.875" x 8.875") yout: BRM NO 9 ENVELOPE.LYT ly 30, 2009
12
Produced by DAZzle Designer, Version 9.0.05 (c) 1993-2009, Endicia, www.Endicia.com U.S. Postal Service, Serial # Produced by DAZzle Designer, Version 9.0.05 (c) 1993-2009, Endicia, www.Endicia.com U.S. Postal Service, Serial #
COMPASS ROSE BENEFITS GROUP 1768 BUSINESS CENTER DR STE 3500 RESTON VA 20190-9971 FIRST-CLASS MAIL PERMIT NO. 9677 COMPASS ROSE BENEFITS GROUPRESTON, VA POSTAGE WILL BE PAID BY ADDRESSEE 1768 BUSINESS CENTER DR STE 3500 RESTON VA 20190-9971
BUSINESS REPLY MAIL
COMPASS ROSE BENEFITS GROUP FIRST-CLASS MAIL PERMIT NO. 9677 RESTON, VA 1768 BUSINESS CENTER DR STE 3500 POSTAGE WILL BE PAID BY ADDRESSEE RESTON VA 20190-9971
BUSINESS REPLY MAIL POSTAGE WILL BE PAID BY ADDRESSEE
FIRST-CLASS MAIL
PERMIT NO. 9677
RESTON, VA
BUSINESS REPLY MAIL
IMPORTANT: DO NOT ENLARGE, REDUCE OR MOVE the FIM and POSTNET barcodes. They are only valid as printed! Special care must be taken to ensure FIM and POSTNET barcode are actual size AND placed properly on the mail piece to meet both USPS regulations and automation compatibility standards. Special care must be taken to ensure FIM and POSTNET barcode are actual size AND placed properly on the mail piece to meet both USPS regulations and automation compatibility standards.
NO POSTA NECESSA IF MAILE IN THE UNITED STA NO POSTAGE NECESSARY IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES NO POSTAGE NECESSARY IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES
Exercise Mind! CompassYour Outreach Summer Safety Tips Crossword Puzzle 1 2
3 4 5
6 7 8
9
2
1
1 3
2 4
10
3
4 5
6
6
8
12
10
11 8
9
7
5
7
9
10 11 12
11
12
AcrossAcross Down Down 6. It is6.important 1. to always wear a ____ The American Academy of Pediatrics 1. It is important to always wear a ____ The American Academy of Pediatrics and other gear when installing a ____aat____ leastat least andsafety other safety gearbiking, when biking, recommends recommends installing skating, or skateboarding. four-feet high around all sides of the skating, or skateboarding. four-feet high around all sides pool. of the pool. 7. You7.should 2. reapply sunscreen every In order stayto hydrated, expertsexperts recommend 2. Into You should reapply sunscreen every order stay hydrated, recommend ____ hours. drinking at leastat____ glasses of water ____ hours. drinking least8oz ____ 8oz glasses of water each day. 9. Before prolonged activity,activity, children each day. 9. Before prolonged children 3. The 3. shouldshould drink plenty of ____. American Academy of Dermatology drink plenty of ____. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using ausing ____acontaining a SPF a SPF 10. Children age ____ and older should be recommends ____ containing 10. Children age ____ and older should be of 30 orofhigher on both sunny and cloudy taught taught to swim. 30 or higher on both sunny and cloudy to swim. days. days. 11. The11. times risk of risk ____ofinjury 2 was The ____was injury 2 times 4. More4.fires are reported on ____ then higher higher in children 10-14 years age of age More fires are reported on4th ____ 4thany then any in children 10-14 of years other day of day the year. than forthan the for general population. other of the year. the general population. 5. Fireworks shouldshould only beonly used 12. If you fire,on you should stop, stop, 5. Fireworks be____. used ____. 12. catch If youon catch fire, you should 8. drop, and ____. that that The 8. American Red Cross drop, and ____. The American Red suggests Cross suggests waitingwaiting an entire before before an ____ entireafter ____eating after eating returning to the pool topool swimtomay bemay be returning to the swim unnecessary. unnecessary.
Across Down 1. The American Academy of Pedia s important to always wear a ____ d other safety gear when biking, recommends installing a ____ at ating, or skateboarding. four-feet high around all sides of 2. In order to stay hydrated, experts u should reapply sunscreen every __ hours. drinking at least ____ 8oz glasse each day. fore prolonged activity, children 3. The American Academy of Derm ould drink plenty of ____. recommends using a ____ conta ildren age ____ and older should be Word Bank: eight, fence, fireworks, four, helmet, hour, July, sunscreen, water sunny an of outdoors, 30 or roll, higher ontwo, both ught to swim. days. e risk of ____ injury was 2 times 4. More fires are reported on ____ 4 gher in children 10-14 years of age 13 other day of the year. an for the general population. Across: 6) helmet 7) two 9) water 10) four 11) fireworks 12) roll Down: 1) fence 2) eight 3) sunscreen 4) July 5) outdoors 8) hour
Spotlight on medicare Medicare and Me Let’s face it, as we age, our health care needs will inevitably change. And as they change, we are here to inform you of the health care benefits available to you as a plan member. Whether you are looking forward to retiring, traveling, or perhaps welcoming a grandchild into your family, your 65th birthday marks a very special time in your life. However, for some, turning age 65 can be full of uncertainties and stress regarding the future of their health care coverage. As your health plan, we are here to help alleviate those uncertainties and stress so you can enjoy what matters most to you! On July 30, 1965, the Medicare Program was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. This new Program extended health care coverage to almost all Americans 65 years of age or older. On July 1, 1966, Medicare was officially implemented and more than 19 million individuals enrolled into the Program. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Medicare provided health care coverage to over 45 million Americans in 2008. By 2030, enrollment is expected to reach 78 million. Medicare is the United States health insurance program for the following: • People 65 years of age or older • People under 65 with certain disabilities • P eople of any age diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) (Permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant) Medicare is financed by a portion of the payroll taxes paid by workers and their employers. It is also financed in part by monthly premiums deducted from Social Security checks. Three months prior to your 65th birthday, the United States Social Security Administration is responsible for notifying you of the upcoming benefits available through Medicare. If you choose to enroll in Medicare, your coverage becomes effective the 1st of the month of your 65th birthday. As a Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) member, you are eligible for the following three parts of Medicare: 1.) Medicare Part A – Part A is hospital insurance that helps cover inpatient care in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, hospices, and home health care. Most people are not responsible for paying Part A premiums because they paid Medicare taxes while working. If you or your spouse worked for at least 10 years in a Medicare-covered employment, you should be able to qualify for “premium-free Part A” insurance. edicare Part B – Part B helps cover medically-necessary services such as doctors’ services, outpatient care, home 2.) M health services, and other medical services needed to diagnose or treat your medical condition. Part B also covers some preventative services. Generally, Part B premiums are withdrawn monthly from your Social Security check or your retirement check. Depending on your income, the United States Social Security Administration may contact you if you are required to pay a higher premium. 3.) Medicare Part D – Part D helps cover the cost of prescription drugs. However, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) determined that the Compass Rose Health Plan’s prescription drug coverage is, on average, expected to pay out as much as the standard Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage will pay for all plan participants and is considered creditable coverage. Therefore, enrolling in Part D will only cost you more out-of-pocket expenses that are already covered under the Compass Rose Health Plan. *Medicare Part C Advantage Plans are private health care choices (HMOs and regional PPOs) in selective areas of the country. For more information regarding Medicare Part C Advantage Plans, please contact a Medicare Representative at (800) 633-4227.
14
spotlight on Outreach medicare Compass
Even though enrolling in Medicare is not required, there are definitely some advantages to having Medicare as your primary and the Compass Rose Health Plan as your secondary form of health care coverage. First, the advantages of being enrolled in Medicare and the Compass Rose Health Plan include: edicare Part A – Upon turning age 65, most Federal employees and annuitants are entitled to Part A at no 1.) M additional cost. If you are not responsible for paying premiums, we strongly encourage you to obtain Part A coverage. As your health plan, we will waive your hospital co-pays and coinsurance. 2.) M edicare Part B – As your health plan, we will waive your calendar year deductible, co-pays and coinsurance for medical services and supplies provided by physicians and other health care professionals, and your deductibles and coinsurance for extended dental treatment for accidental injuries. We also provide lower co-pays for your prescription drugs.
Prescription Drug Program for Medicare B Participants Level Retail (30-day supply)
Mail-Order (90-day supply)
Level 1 (Generic)**
$3 co-pay*
$6 co-pay*
Level 2 (Brand Name Formulary)
$18 co-pay*
$36 co-pay*
Level 3 (Brand Name Non-Formulary)
30% or $35
whichever is greater*
30% or $45
whichever is greater*
If you require prescription medications to treat severe and/or chronic medical conditions that are usually administered by injections or infusion, you may be subject to our Specialty Pharmacy Benefit. *No deductible **If there is no Generic equivalent available, you will still have to pay the Level 2 co-pay
Under Part B, you are also covered if you require any diabetes testing supplies, respiratory supplies and medications, immunosuppressive medications, and oral anti-cancer medications. You can obtain these supplies by: Mail-Order Home Delivery: The Compass Rose Health Plan and Express Scripts have arranged for NationsHealth to offer convenient mail-order home delivery of Part B covered prescription medications and supplies. This special arrangement allows NationsHealth to submit your claim(s) to Medicare and coordinate benefits with Express Scripts and your health plan. For more information on this home delivery service, please contact a NationsHealth Representative at (800) 688-0453. Local Retail Pharmacy: If it is more convenient for you to obtain your prescriptions or supplies at your local pharmacy, please contact an Express Scripts Representative at (800) 752-0598.
Once you are enrolled in Part B, you have the freedom to be seen by ANY participating Medicare provider whether PPO, non-PPO, or out-of-network WITHOUT penalty. You can verify that your providers are Medicare participating physicians by visiting www.medicare.gov/physician/search/physicianhome.asp.
If you choose NOT to enroll in Part B when you first become eligible, you may be charged a Part B late enrollment penalty, resulting in a 10% increase in premium for every 12 months you are not enrolled.
15
Spotlight on medicare Medicare and Me Next, being enrolled in Medicare and the Compass Rose Health Plan will help significantly decrease your out-of-pocket health care expenses. The Compass Rose Health Plan will remain the primary form of coverage for all members enrolled in Medicare who are still actively employed by the Federal Government. However, once you are enrolled in Medicare and retired from the Federal Government, Medicare will automatically become your primary form of health care coverage. Naturally, as your health plan, we will then become your secondary form of coverage. As long as you are seen by a participating Medicare provider, Medicare is typically required to pay 80% of each claim and your health plan is typically responsible for paying the remaining 20%. PLEASE NOTE: There are exceptions to these general rules when determining whether the Compass Rose Health Plan or Medicare is your primary payer. Please refer to page 70 in your 2011 Compass Rose Health Plan Benefits Brochure for an all inclusive list of primary payer guidelines.
So stop stressing over your Medicare benefits and celebrate your 65th birthday by getting out and enjoying life! As your health plan, it is our responsibility to provide you with information that will hopefully help alleviate your health care stress. Just remember, whether or not you decide to enroll in Medicare is up to you! So, whatever your decision, please remember to contact us! If you have any further questions regarding the Compass Rose Health Plan and Medicare, please contact a Member Services Representative at (800) 769-6953 or if you would like to learn more about Medicare, please visit www.medicare.gov or call (800) 633-4227.
SOURCES:
16
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
The Official U.S Government Site for Medicare
U.S. Social Security Administration
Specialty products 2011 Traveling Hot-Spots If planning this summer’s family vacation slipped your mind, sit back and relax – we’ve got you covered! This summer, the Travel Channel compiled a list of their top must-see vacation destinations. You can please your entire family through one of these suggested hot-spots, as modern family resorts have upped the ante in entertainment. From swimming with dolphins, man-made African Safaris, and even sleeping in trees, if you are looking for fun-in-the sun, family friendly vacations check out this year’s list of hot-spots!
Top Family Destinations: 1.) Atlantis Resort and Casino, Paradise Island Bahamas: www.atlantis.com 2.) Club Med Ixtapa, Ixtapa Mexico: www.clubmed.com 3.) Out ’n’ About Treesort, Takilma, OR: www.treehouses.com 4.) Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Orlando, FL: www.disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/animal-kingdom-lodge 5.) Tanque Verde Ranch, Tucson, AZ: www.tanqueverderanch.com
Seniors See the U.S. From a Different Perspective: For something different, the increasing popular river cruise is a great way to see America up-close, stopping in the towns and cities that make our country unique – and where big cruise ships can’t travel. This industry expanded 32% last year, with the senior/retired group as the No.1 market for river cruising. On river cruises, dressing up is not required and, unlike large cruise ships, they include all meals, all soft drinks, wine with dinner, and evening cocktail parties. Some also include complimentary in-port excursions to museums, historic venues and other points of interest, and the use of kayaks and inflatable boats for further exploration, like on Alaska’s Inside Passage, to view glaciers and wildlife. U.S. River Cruises in a Growing Market:
• S outheast Alaska, Fantasy Cruises: Dawes Glacier (Endicott Arm and Holkam Bay); Ford’s Terror; Juneau; Chatham Strait; Tenakee Springs; Sitka • E rie Canal to the Saguenay River, Blount Small Ship Adventures: New York, NY; Kingston, NY; Troy, NY; Amsterdam, NY; Sylvan Beach, NY; Oswego, NY; Clayton, NY; Alexandria Bay, NY; Dark Island, NY; Ogdensburg, NY; St. Lawrence Seaway; Quebec City, Quebec; Montreal, Quebec • C olumbia/Snake River, American Cruise Lines: Portland, OR; Astoria, OR; Rainier, WA; Stevenson, WA; Pendleton, OR; Clarkston, WA • C hesapeake Bay, Arabella Cruises: Annapolis, MD; Cambridge, MD; Solomons, MD; St. Michaels, MD; Kent Island, MD; Baltimore, MD
SOURCE: The Travel Channel
• H istoric Antebellum South, American Cruise Lines: Beaufort, SC; Daufuskie Island/Hilton Head, SC; Savannah, GA; St. Simons Island, GA; Jekyll and Amelia Islands, GA; Jacksonville, FL
Spring Cleaning Our Member Files If you are currently enrolled in any of our Specialty Products and have recently experienced a Qualifying Life Event (QLE) such as a marriage, divorce, death of a dependent, change of address, or addition to your family, please remember to notify us! Compass Rose Benefits Group (CRBG) Specialty Products include: Group Term Life Insurance underwritten by New York Life (formerly UBLIC), Long Term Disability (LTD), and Group Accident Plan (GAP). Unlike our health plan, we require notification of life changes IN WRITING. Please mail all life changes in writing to: Compass Rose Benefits Group, 1768 Business Center Drive, Suite 3500, Reston, VA 20190
17
Specialty Products Covering Your Dream Vacation with Travel Guard Silver Summer is the time of year when schools close their doors, pools open up, and families find themselves finally taking that dream vacation that they have saved for all year! But what would happen to you, your family, and your dream vacation if sudden and unforeseen circumstances should arise? At Compass Rose Benefits Group (CRBG), we understand that your vacation can take a year to save for, but only a second to ruin. Because tomorrow is never promised, you should cover what you can today. While you can’t do anything to prevent an unexpected storm from closing the airport, the airlines from losing your luggage, or an unforeseen accident from happening, you can help cover yourself and your dream vacation with Travel Guard’s Silver Plan through Compass Rose. Travel Guard is one of America’s leading providers of travel insurance plans. The Travel Guard Silver Plan offers per trip travel insurance, with Trip Cancellation coverage, that is specifically tailored to each individual trip cost and age of each traveler. Trip Cancellation coverage through Travel Guard Silver includes coverage for pre-paid expenses such as airline tickets, cruises, vacation packages, and even vacation rental homes! The Travel Guard Silver Plan is a unique plan because unlike many CRBG products, eligibility is extended to everyone! Travel Guard Silver Plan benefits include: • Trip Cancellation: 100% of insured trip cost
• Medical Expense: $15,000 ($50 deductible)
• Baggage and Personal Effects Loss: $750 ($50 deductible)
• Trip Delay: $500 with a maximum of $100 per day
• Trip Interruption: 100% of insured trip cost
• Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation of Remains: $150,000
• Baggage Delay: $200
• F amily Coverage: One child age 17 and under will receive coverage at no additional cost for each adult who purchases this Plan.
• Trip Interruption – Return Air Only: $500
18
Specialty Products
According to the U.S. Travel Association, in 2009 direct spending on leisure travel by domestic and international travelers in the U.S. averaged $1.9 billion a day or $1.3 million a minute – that totals over $489 billion in one year alone! The last thing you want to add to that figure are extra costs – like paying penalties for a missed flight or connection, buying new clothes because of lost luggage, or losing a trip deposit because of bad weather, business, or illness. As the excitement builds in preparing for your next trip, don’t forget about protecting your vacation with Travel Insurance Protection through Travel Guard Silver offered through Compass Rose. To take advantage of Travel Guard Silver, visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/Travel or please call our dedicated Compass Rose Travel Guard insurance desk at (866) 420-9985.
Silver‐Plan Cost Trip Cost Per Person (Up to 30 Days)
$ 0 1 ‐ 250 $ 251 ‐ 500 $ 501 ‐ 1000 $ 1,001 ‐ 1500 $ 1,501 ‐ 2000 $ 2,001 ‐ 2500 $ 2,50 ‐ 3000 $ 3,001 ‐3500 $ 3,501 ‐ 4000 $ 4,001 ‐ 4500 $ 4,501 ‐ 5000 $ 5,001 ‐ 5500 $ 5,501 ‐ 6000 $ 6,001 ‐ 6500 $ 6,501 ‐ 7000 $ 7,001 ‐ 8000 $ 8,001 ‐ 9000 $ 9,001 ‐ 10000 $ 10,001 ‐ 11000 $ 11,001 ‐ 12000 $ 12,001 ‐ 13000 $ 13,001 ‐ 14000 $ 14,001 ‐ 15000 $
Medical Coverage Upgrade
AGE
0-34
35-59 60-69 70-74 75-79 80-84
85+
$14 $17 $20 $35 $45 $61 $78 $95 $111 $126 $142 $158 $182 $203 $220 $239 $263 $295 $328 $375 $424 $473 $522 $573
$21 $25 $30 $44 $60 $80 $100 $118 $125 $137 $157 $178 $210 $240 $262 $284 $309 $334 $363 $422 $477 $533 $591 $649
$27 $31 $34 $55 $75 $104 $128 $154 $180 $204 $260 $291 $319 $347 $379 $413 $462 $512 $567 $642 $707 $766 $834 $905
$31 $37 $43 $75 $99 $142 $174 $208 $242 $274 $310 $346 $403 $441 $479 $519 $586 $654 $723 $820 $913 $1,005 $1,093 $1,186
$46 $48 $51 $96 $136 $175 $214 $256 $292 $332 $371 $412 $451 $491 $530 $573 $653 $734 $822 $960 $1,080 $1,205 $1,333 $1,458
$58 $67 $77 $123 $161 $207 $254 $297 $341 $396 $459 $513 $573 $632 $694 $755 $847 $946 $1,044 $1,211 $1,363 $1,517 $1,678 $1,850
$67 $76 $85 $145 $205 $263 $330 $390 $447 $501 $562 $619 $678 $738 $795 $860 $977 $1,102 $1,226 $1,421 $1,594 $1,748 $1,901 $2,055
$10
$15
$20
$25
$35
$45
$55
Above rates do not include a $7 service fee. Pricing available up to $100,000 trip cost. Coverage must be purchased at least 24 hours prior to departure.
Ready to Enroll? Option 1: To enroll online, visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/Travel Option 2: To enroll by phone call (866) 420-9985 SOURCE: U.S. Travel Association This is only a brief description of the coverage(s) available. The Policy will contain reductions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions. Insurance underwritten by National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, PA with its principal place of business in New York, NY. Coverage may not be available in all states.
19
Compass Outreach
1768 Business Center Drive Suite 3500 Reston, VA 20190 (571) 204-0600 (800) 769-6953 www.compassrosebenefits.com
Proud to provide quality insurance solutions for more than 60 years! Compass connection Compass Rose Health Plan Contact Information: Claims/InforMed
Compass Rose Health Plan P.O. Box 6430 Annapolis, MD 21401
(877) 531-1159
Express Scripts, Inc. Express Scripts, Inc. Home Delivery Service P.O. Box 52101 Phoenix, AZ 85072 Lab Program Quest Diagnostics
(800) 752-0598 www.Express-Scripts.com Fax prescriptions from a doctor’s office to: (888) 232-1020
Dental and Vision Discount Program Careington International Corporation 7400 Gaylord Parkway Frisco, TX 75034
(800) 290-0523 www.careington.com Identify yourself as a Diversified Federal Group (DFG) member
Compass Rose Benefits Group
(800) 769-6953 askCRBG@compassrosebenefits.com www.compassrosebenefits.com
Compass Rose Benefits Group 1768 Business Center Drive Suite 3500 Reston, VA 20190
(800) 646-7788 www.LabCard.com