Urban Call — Healthy Living Every Day!
Affordable Care Act: The Important Dates Are you an individual looking for a health insurance plan? Do you want to change the plan you are on? Do subsidies help pay for your insurance? If so, you need to update your subsidy with the Health Insurance Marketplace. Subsidies change every year.
November 15: Annual Enrollment Period begins. Apply for, keep, or change coverage. December 15: Subsidy information with the Health Insurance Marketplace is due if members want to change plans, or apply for new coverage. December 31: Coverage ends for 2014 plans. January 1: Coverage for 2015 plans can start. February 15: The last day to apply for 2015 coverage before the end of Annual Enrollment Period. Outside of a few exceptions, anyone who does not purchase a plan between Nov. 15 and Feb. 15 will be required to wait until the next Annual Enrollment Period.
* Dependents may stay on their parents plan until age 26, (the law also states that “dependents” do not have to live with their parents, be claimed as a dependent on tax returns, may be married and do not have to be enrolled in school). * Waiting periods for pre-existing conditions are eliminated. Applicants cannot be turned away for enrollment based on their health status. * Preventive care and medical screenings are covered in-network at 100%, with no cost sharing. This includes immunizations, U.S. Preventive Services Task Force-recommended
The Affordable Care Act provides many benefits:
Inside...
Important Dates to Remember
10
AIDS Foundation
10 Steve Harvey
Mental Health
Blair Underwood
10 Melissa Harris-Perry
Fighting Diabetes in Our Community
Michelle Obama
Halle Berry
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services, and screenings for women, infants, children, and adolescents. *Annual dollar limits on essential benefits are eliminated. * There are no lifetime dollar limits on essential benefits. *Policies may only be rescinded for fraud or intentional misrepresentation on the part of the applicant or non-payment of premiums. All BCBSNC plans mentioned in this edition of Urban Call provide coverage for essential health benefits, which are now required by law. For those who can’t afford it on their own, subsidies are available to people who meet eligibility criteria. The Health Insurance Marketplace can provide more information on eligibility. *Premium subsidies are available for those who qualify. They help lower the amount of premium the individual or family must pay for their coverage on a month-to-month basis. *Some are eligible for cost-sharing assistance that will limit out-of-pocket costs (i.e., deductibles, coinsurance or copayments) that would otherwise be charged at the point of service.
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Mentoring
Sandra Miller Jones
Segmented Marketing Services, Inc. Founder & CEO
Lafayette Jones
Publisher, Urban Call; SMSi-Urban Call Marketing, Inc. President & CEO
From our family to yours It is a great pleasure to work with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina and the goal of helping more people have access to insurance through the Affordable Care Act. We know that health outcomes improve when access to appropriate medical care is available. We are happy that our SMSi Ambassadors will be out in the community helping people understand their new options. As always, our motto continues to be: Healthy Living Every Day!
For more information on your Affordable Health Care options Call: (866) 341-5283 toll free Text: (336) 692-2151 E-mail: SMSiPartners@smsi-net.com For a digital copy of Urban Call visit: http://Issuu.com/SmsiUrbanCallMarketing.com
Urban Call — Healthy Living Every Day!
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Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina on healthy choices
Brad Wilson President and CEO Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina
It’s important that all of us understand the cost of the health care we receive and how it impacts the amount we pay for health insurance. As one of North Carolina’s leading health insurers, we think we have a responsibility to our customers and to North Carolina to provide accurate information about the true cost of health care and what we can all do about reining in that cost. There are many reasons for the rise in costs. One is something we can all work to address: unhealthy lifestyles. The old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” has never been more relevant than it is today. As a result, a substantial portion of health care costs is directly related to lifestyle choices that have negative health consequences. And we all pay for the consequences of these poor choices.
We learned when we launched Let’s Talk Cost (letstalkcost.com) three years ago few people understood why medical costs were so high. Fewer realized that the high cost of care was directly related to the high cost of insurance. Let’s Talk Cost has been an effective medium through which to inform and stimulate conversation and action to help address this problem. I believe we have been able to ratchet up the conversation on health care costs, and I’m hearing about more efforts across North Carolina to have productive conversations that can lead to solutions to the health cost challenge. We have some momentum for addressing this issue. We invite you to join in the conversation. We want to hear from you. Visit Letstalkcost. com.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina wins ethics award Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina was recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institute, a leading international think tank dedicated to the creation, advancement and sharing of best practices in business ethics, corporate social responsibility, anti-corruption and sustainability. Each year, Ethisphere evaluates several thousand companies from around the world and recognizes those few that demonstrate a true commitment to ethical leadership, compliance practices and corporate social responsibility. Over 5,000 companies were reviewed and out of those, 145 companies were designated as World’s Most Ethical.
Visit SMSiUrbanCallHealth.com The SMSi Companies Corporate Offices 615 Saint George Square Court, Suite 300 Winston-Salem, NC 27103 Office: (336) 546-1802 or (866) 341-5283
SMSi & Urban Call Community Outreach Office Goler Memorial AME Zion Family Enrichment Center 620 Patterson Avenue Winston Salem, NC 27101 (336) 546-1802 or (866) 341-5283
SMSiUrbanCallMarketing.com SegmentedMarketing.com n
SMSi-Urban Call Marketing, Inc. President and CEO; Urban Call Publisher: Lafayette Jones Executive Editor: Alan Cronk Editorial Director: Rose M. Walsh
Production Manager: Jodi S. Sarver Financial Services: Wanda Courts Archivist: Avis Patterson Warehouse and Shipping: Bernard Archie
Segmented Marketing Services, Inc. SMSi Founding Chair and CEO: Sandra Miller Jones National Project Manager: Constance Harris National Public Relations Manager: Tonya Monteiro National Logistics Manager: Camille Allen
Lead Outreach Ambassador: Sophia Bamby Lead Agent Ambassador: Debra Shore Director Operations: Tahnya Bowser Director Financial Services: Roslyn Hickman
SMSi Community of Networks
The Basics Glossary FAQ Our Ambassadors
From Our Family to Yours
Community Health Forums are being planned in North Carolina to update consumers on new insurance options that are available to people who need individual coverage. These forums will be especially helpful to those who have never had insurance coverage, now mandated by the Affordable Care Act. Find out more about subsidies that are available and about the new and expanded benefits in all insurance plans. Meet the SMSi Ambassadors and licensed agents working in your area.
SMSi Companies expand headquarters The SMSi Companies have opened new offices after 22 years in a former location. The corporate office is at 615 Saint George Square Court, Suite 300 in WinstonSalem, N.C. The SMSi & Urban Call Community Outreach Office is at the Goler Memorial AME Zion Family Enrichment Center, 620 Patterson Avenue, N.C., in downtown’s historic African-American district. Founded in 1978, the minority-owned national marketing, promotion and publishing companies include Segmented Marketing Services, Inc. (SMSi) and SMSi-Urban Call Marketing, Inc. The newest company, SMSi Health Insurance Solutions, assists with education and enrollment for Medicare and the Affordable Care Act. The corporate headquarters, located near Hanes Mall, is equipped with high tech video conferencing capabilities, and is located between Highway 421 and I-40, providing access to Greensboro, Charlotte and Piedmont Triad International Airport. The Community Outreach Center, with multipurpose
conference facilities for 500, a computer training center with 20 stations and a full service kitchen, is adjacent to the Wake Forest University Innovation Quarter and its newest addition, Biotech Place. The SMSi companies deliver millions of free product samples, custom Urban Call publications and promotions through national proprietary networks of churches, beauty salons and schools, barbershops, retail stores, community health and senior centers, women’s service organizations and youth organizations. Field marketing ambassadors work in the top 25 U. S. ethnic markets. SMSi-Urban Call Marketing produces digital media and print Urban Calls, part of a strategic alliance with BH Media Enterprises, a Warren Buffet company. These tabloid size custom publications have been sponsored by Procter and Gamble, General Mills, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Johnson & Johnson, and Aetna insurance.
Urban Call — Healthy Living Every Day!
Contact Us Today! SMSi Health Insurance Solutions A Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Authorized Agency For more information about your Affordable Health Care options: Call: (866) 341-5283 toll free Text: (336) 692-2151 E-mail: SMSiPartners@smsi-net.com Hours of operation: 24 hour hotline
SMSiUrbanCallHealth.com Contact Us Today! SMSi Health Insurance Solutions A Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Authorized Agency Call: (866) 341-5283 toll free - Text: (336) 692-2151 - E-mail: SMSiPartners@smsi-net.com 1 Healthcare.gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/fees-exemptions/exemptions-from-the-fee/. 2 Actual subsidy eligibility and amounts can only be determined by the federal government. ® Marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. U9303, 10/14
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What’s plan? your
Urban Call — Healthy Living Every Day!
You have a lot to think about when you are looking for a health plan. It has to meet your specific needs, your budget and your life circumstances and give you the protection you need. Here are some important steps: • Consider your life stage, where you are in life and how it will affect your health coverage needs. Are you just starting out? Raising a family? Self-employed or on your own? Between jobs? Need child-only coverage? • Compare plan options and learn what is available to you. • Review the benefits of each plan and see which plan best meets your needs. • Review your federal income tax report to see if you qualify for a federal subsidy.
Blue Advantage offers a broad choice of doctors, specialists and hospitals with a deep, broad network. Over 95% of physicians and 98% of the hospitals in North Carolina are in-network.1 It provides flexibility in paying for doctor visits and prescription drugs. No referrals are needed. Preventive services are covered at 100% when you go to an in-network provider.2 1: BCBSNC Internal Data, 2011. Percentages indicated represent BCBSNC’s PPO Network
Blue Select tiers benefits and features the largest network of providers for a savings up to 6% over Blue Advantage.3 There are copayments for predictable costs and a smaller pharmacy network that provides cost savings. No referrals are needed and preventive care is covered at 100% when you go to an in-network provider.2 2: Preventive care services as defined by recent federal regulations are covered at no charge to you. For Blue Advantage, Blue Select and Blue Value: Coverage for certain preventive care services (such as routine physical exams, well-baby and well-child care, and immunization) is limited to in-network benefits only. However, state-mandated preventive services are available out-of-network, for which members will pay deductibles and coinsurance, plus charges over the allowed amount. Visit bcbsnc.com/preventive for more details.
The Annual Enrollment Period
The Affordable Care Act mandates that individuals have insurance. Penalties will be assessed for those who do not have insurance.4 Outside of a few exceptions, anyone who does not purchase insurance during the enrollment5 period will not be able to do so until the next period (November, 2015). Below is a timeline to remember: November 15: Annual Enrollment Period begins. Apply for, keep, or change coverage. December 15: Subsidy information with the Health Insurance Marketplace is due if members want to change plans in order for coverage to be effective January 1, 2015. December 31: Coverage ends for 2014 plans.
January 1: Coverage for 2015 plans can start. February 15: The last day to apply for 2015 coverage before the end of Annual Enrollment Period. Outside of a few exceptions, anyone who does not purchase a plan between Nov. 15 and Feb. 15 will be required to wait until the next Annual Enrollment Period.
4: To avoid penalty, coverage must be maintained for specified periods. See https://www.healthcare.gov/fees-exemptions/fee-for-not-being-covered/. 5: Periods outside of the enrollment date may be available to those who qualify.
Blue Value features a limited network of doctors, hospitals and pharmacies to lower member costs for a savings up to 15% over Blue Advantage.3 There are choices in how to pay for doctor visits and prescription drugs. The plan pays 100% of preventive services when you go to an in-network provider.2 No referrals are needed. 3: BCBSNC Internal Data, percentage savings based on a 45-year-old male, nonsmoker, in Mecklenburg County.
New and expanded benefits The Health Care Reform Act means new or expanded benefits. These include: • Ambulatory patient services • Emergency services • Hospitalization • Maternity and newborn care covered • Increased benefits for mental health and substance use disorder including behavioral health treatment
• Prescription drugs • Rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices • Laboratory services • Preventive and wellness services and chronic disease management • Pediatric services, including oral and vision care
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Urban Call — Healthy Living Every Day!
Caregivers can find senior advice at SHIIP Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) is a consumer information division of the North Carolina Department of Insurance that assists people with Medicare and longterm care insurance questions. The organization also helps people recognize and prevent Medicare billing fraud and abuse. SHIIP provides education and assistance in three ways: 1. Operating a toll-free consumer information phone line. 2. Training volunteers, including senior citizens to counsel Medicare beneficiaries about all the parts of Medicare.
3. Creating educational materials for consumer use including the Medicare Supplement Comparison Guide and the Medicare Supplement Comparison database on the web. Trained SHIIP volunteers are in existing human services agencies such as the Council on Aging or Cooperative Extension offices. Nationwide toll-free number (800) 443-9354 North Carolina toll-free number (855) 408-1212 www.ncshiip.com ncshiip@ncdoi.gov
Glossary of terms Health Care Reform has its own language. Here are the most commonly used terms:
Halle Berry
Michelle Obama First Lady Michelle Obama and film star Halle Berry encourage Americans to eat nutritious foods and get adequate exercise. Mrs. Obama has made the “Let’s Move” outreach program to combat childhood obesity, a signature of her stay in the White House. Berry, who deals with Type I diabetes, is a spokeswoman for organizations battling the disease.
Affordable Care Act (ACA) The law intended to address issues with our health care system by increasing access to health insurance, introducing reform and improving quality. Also referred to as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). Annual Enrollment Period Generally the only time to switch to a new plan. Benefit Period The specified period of time during which charges for covered services provided to a policy member must be incurred in order to be eligible for payment. Coinsurance The percentage of covered medical expenses paid after the deductible is met. Copayment: A fixed dollar amount you may pay for a covered service at the time you receive it. Copayments can vary depending on the service. Deductible The amount you owe for certain covered services during a benefit period before your health insurance begins to pay. Federal Poverty Level (FPL) A measure of income level (by family size) that determines eligibility for premium tax credits. For example a family of four that makes less $95,400. This amount may be adjusted from time to time for inflation.
Formulary The list of drugs available on an insurance plan.
active. Premiums are separate from other health insurance out-of-pocket costs.
Grandfathered Refers to health insurance plans that were in effect prior to March 23, 2010 and that have not undergone specific changes. The ACA allows grandfathered plans to be exempt from some ACA requirements.
Premium Tax Credits These Subsidies may be available to low and middle-income Americans and can be applied towards the payment of health insurance premiums. In addition, cost sharing reductions may limit a plan’s maximum out-of-pocket expenses.
Health Insurance Marketplace An online insurance marketplace where individuals can compare, shop for and buy qualified health insurance plans. Also known as an “Exchange.”
Preventive Care Medical services related to the prevention of disease, provided by or upon the direction of a doctor or other provider.
Out-of-Pocket Costs: Coinsurance payments made by an individual for covered medical services. In addition, this may include deductible amounts for some products, such as Blue Options HSA. Pre-Existing Condition A condition, disease, illness or injury for which medical advice, diagnosis, care or treatment was received or recommended within a specified time period prior to enrolling in health plan. Pregnancy and genetic information are not considered pre-existing conditions. Premium The amount paid to keep an insurance policy
Provider A hospital, non-hospital facility, doctor or other provider, accredited, licensed or certified where required in the state of practice, performing within the scope of license or certification. All services performed must be within the scope of license or certification to be eligible for reimbursement. Subsidy A tax credit provided by the federal government, or a cost-sharing reduction to assist individuals purchasing insurance. They are based on income levels, household size, and access to other affordable coverage.
Find useful information about the Affordable Care Act Need more information? Visit the SMSi website at right. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the White House also have information sites.
• SMSiUrbanCallHealth.com • BCBSNC.com (Health Care Reform) • Whitehouse.gov/blog (Affordable Care Act) • HHS.gov/healthcare (African-American • LetsTalkCost.com
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Urban Call — Healthy Living Every Day!
Meet the SMSi ambassadors
Travis Battle Wake County Ambassador
Betty Morton & Antwaune Ingram Forsyth County Ambassadors
Health disparity endowment honors Dr. Sylvia Flack The Dr. Sylvia A. Flack Health Disparity Endowed Scholarship has been named in honor of the Winston-Salem State University’s founder and director of the Center of Excellence for the Elimination of Health Disparities (CEEHD). The endowment will prepare Winston-Salem State University nursing students at the masters and doctoral levels to assist in eliminating health disparities which impact racial and ethnic minorities, medically underserved and the disadvantaged. Dr. Flack is the founding dean of the School of Health Sciences/Professor of Nursing at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU). She joined
Winston-Salem State University in 1989 as coordinator of the nursing program. Her research is in the areas of the medically underserved, health disparities, HIV/AIDS, elderly minorities and breast cancer. She founded the Community Family Practice and Wellness Center, an academic primary care facility located in the Housing Authority of WinstonSalem’s public housing and family services. She developed and led Faces of a Healthy Future: National Conference to End Health Disparities I & II, two of the nation’s largest conferences on health disparities. CEEHD is a member of the
Ambassadors from SMSi-Urban Call Marketing, Inc. are visiting community groups to educate about the Affordable Care Act and explain the insurance opportunities with Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC). They will work with Community Advocate Partners (CAP) who will host presentations. BCBSNC representatives will speak to the CAP groups organized by the Ambassadors. For more information visit SMSiUrbanCallHealth.com.
Rev. Ervin Baker Mecklenburg Co. Ambassador
Cathy Price, Creft Haggins & Norma Warren Pitt County Ambassadors
DR. SYLVIA FLACK HEALTH DISPARITY ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP
WINSTON-SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY Southeastern Regional Health Equity Council (SHEC), one of ten regional councils formed in 2011 as a part of the National Partnership for Action to End Health Disparities (NPA), a coalition of community, private sector, and government leaders who share the common goal of ending health disparities in Alabama, Florida, Georgia,
Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. One of the initiatives of CEEHD is the How is Your Heart project (howisyourheartproject.com) developed in conjunction with the American Heart Association. Alvin Borders is director of the local project. He authored a
Hair Fitness stars at beauty show The Bronner Bros. International Hair Show draws 60,000 hair stylists from across the nation. Their “Hair Fitness” competition seeks to promote styles that facilitate healthy and fit AfricanAmerican women Studies show many African-American women avoid certain fitness activities in order to maintain their hairstyles. According to the 2011 edition of America’s Health Rankings®, the prevalence of obesity among African-
Americans exceeds 30 percent in 36 states and the District of Columbia. This dramatically outpaces obesity rates for whites and poses serious health consequences for those affected — including diabetes and heart disease. The goal of the Hair Fitness competition is to encourage professional hair stylists to create hairstyles that are easy to maintain and empower their clients to make exercise a part of their daily routine. Stylists were judged on
the technical execution of the styles, originality, suitability and head contour, and new ideas. Contest categories included: low-impact workout, which involves little to no sweat and requires only one shampoo/condition per week; moderate-impact workout, which involves modest sweat and requires one to two shampoo and conditions per week; and high-impact, which involves profuse sweating and requires two to three shampoo/conditions per week.
play, “Dr. Blockheart’s Family Practice,” for community health fairs. In the play Dr. Blockheart, a cardiologist sends invitations to people in the community at risk for heart disease. The characters learn the signs and symptoms of heart attacks and procedures to follow. For information visit facesofahealthyfuture.com; call (336) 779-7361.
Melicia C. WhittGlover, PhD, president and CEO of Gramercy Research Group, found that nearly 40 percent of African-American women avoid exercise due to a hair-related issue.
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Urban Call — Healthy Living Every Day!
Health Association Directory Alzheimer’s Assoc. (800) 272-3900 (866) 403-3073 TDD Alz.org Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (866) 232-8484 Alzfdn.org American Academy of Home Care Medicine (AAHCM) (410) 676-7966 Aahcm.org American Cancer Society (800) 227-2345 (866) 228-4327 TTY Cancer.org American Diabetes Assoc. (800) 342-2383 Diabetes.org American Geriatrics Society (212) 308-1414 Americangeriatrics.org American Heart Assoc. (800) 242-8721 Americanheart.org
Arthritis Foundation (800) 568-4045 Arthritis.org Assoc. of Black Cardiologists (800) 753-9222 Abcardio.org Center for Disease Control and Prevention (800) 232-4636 Cdc.gov International Society on Hypertension in Blacks (703) 351-5023 Ishib.org Leukemia & Lymphoma Soc. (914) 949-5213 Lls.org Lupus Foundation of America, Inc. (202) 349-1155 Lupus.org National Alliance for Caregiving (301) 718-8444 Caregiving.org
National Assoc. of Geriatric Care Managers (520) 881-8008 CareManager.org National Council on Aging (202) 479-1200 Ncoa.org National Institute on Aging (301) 496-1752 Nia.nih.gov National Kidney Foundation (800) 622-9010 Kidney.org National Medical Assoc. (202) 347-1895 Nmanet.org National Pharmaceutical Assoc. (877) 215-2091 nationalpharmaceutical association.org U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (800) 444-6472 Omhrc.gov
Think positive—your first step to a rewarding life Have you ever met someone who radiates positive energy? They immediately leave a good impression on you and you enjoy being with them. Not only is positive thinking good for your personal and business relationships, it also improves your overall health. Here are tips from experts to help you become a positive thinker: Start by taking charge of your mental attitude. This means approaching your day from the positive side instead of the negative side. Make an earnest effort to conquer the negative. Surround yourself with optimistic people who have a can-do attitude instead of a cannot-do attitude. Remember that thinking positive means anticipating happiness, joy, health, and success. Avoid people who zap your energy. You know who they are. These are the people with chips on
Black women’s organizations serve the community
Multicultural Health conference in Atlanta The third Multicultural Health National: Marketing to A Diverse America conference was held in Atlanta. Key thought-leaders focused on best practices for reaching the key multicultural populations. The presentations included perspectives from lawmakers and policy makers on how the Affordable Care Act and demographic shifts will change how and to whom health is marketed.
African-American women’s organizations have always been at the forefront of issues that impact their communities. Through the years, as champions for many causes including education, voting rights, equal opportunity, fair wages, women’s rights, and the well-being of children, society has benefited from these women’s groups who have lobbied for change. With the many health disparities that are prevalent today, these organizations have once again taken the charge to make a difference and initiate changes to improve the health of women and families. Women’s groups sponsor health and wellness initiatives and promote the need for doctor recommended preventive and screening exams to foster healthier lifestyles. Health screenings and workshops are organized and sponsored by these organizations in an effort to close
the health gap disparity that exists. Women are encouraged to seek prenatal care to prevent birth defects and infant mortality. Outreach programs address such issues as teen pregnancy, drug addiction, AIDS, stress and nutrition. Some groups help older women live successfully with a supportive social network and financial security. Through the economic, political, social, religious and cultural programs these women provide, the whole community has been made stronger. Their contributions combine with the work of national, state, county and local organizations and elected officials who are working together for the improvement of women’s health. At right is a list of women’s groups that serve the African-American community. For more information, call the number listed or check the website.
their shoulder who blame everyone else but themselves for the problems in their life. They are the “woe is me” people. Do not let them drag you down. If you cannot avoid these people, simply do not allow them to bring you down. When a negative thought enters your mind, recognize it for what it is and replace it with positive thoughts. Push out all feelings that are not positive. Keep at it and eventually the replacement of negative thoughts with positive ones will come easy for you. Get exercise. A run, walk, or playing a sport can improve your outlook. Workouts release endorphins, a chemical which makes you feel good and fight stress. Physical activity does wonders for your body, mind, and soul. Regardless of your religious faith, being around people with similar beliefs will strengthen your soul and positive outlook. Seek out others who look at a cup as half full instead of half empty.
BLACK Women’s ORGANIZATIONS Directory Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. 5656 S. Stony Island Ave. Chicago, IL 60637 (773) 684-1282 www.aka1908.com
Ave., NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 986-2400 www.deltasigmatheta.org
Jack and Jill of America Inc. 1930 17th St. NW Black Women’s Agenda, Washington, DC 20009 Inc. (BWA) (202) 667-7010 5335 Wisconsin Ave. www.jackandjillinc.org NW, Suite 440 Washington, D.C. 20015 National Beauty 202-730-2637 Culturists’ League (NBCL) www.bwa-inc.org 25 Logan Circle NW Washington, DC 20005 Black Women’s (202) 332-2695 Roundtable National www.nbcl.org Coalition on Black Civic Participation National Coalition of 100 1050 Connecticut Ave., Black Women NW 38 West 32nd St., Washington, DC 20036 Suite 1610 (202) 659-4929 New York, NY 10001 www.ncbcp.com (212) 222-5660 www.ncbw.org Delta Sigma Theta Sorority National Council of Negro 1707 New Hampshire
Women Inc. (NCNW) 633 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Washington, DC 20004 (202) 737-0120 www.ncnw.org National Hook-up of Black Women Inc. 1809 East 71st. St., Suite 205 Chicago, IL 60649 (773) 667-7061 www.nhbwinc.com The Links Inc. 1200 Massachusetts Ave., NW Washington, DC 20005 (800) 574-3720 www.linksinc.org Zeta Phi Beta Sorority 1734 New Hampshire Ave. NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 387-3103 www.zphib1920.org
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Urban Call — Healthy Living Every Day!
BlueBlue Cross and Blue Shield Cross Shield of of North NorthCarolina Carolina
Contributes to College Communities school band at North Carolina & Technical State University in GreensBlueCross CrossBlue and Shield Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC) sponsorsa anumber numberof ofcommunity Blue of North Carolina (BCBSNC) sponsors activities including theAgricultural “Strive to Revive” program in black churches. community activities including the “Strive to Revive” program in black churches. boroemergency and its Aggieheart Foundation. The program distributes defribulators--medical equipment that assists people with problems. Other programs support social activities for To date, 235 AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) have been awarded to Golf tournamentsArts at Bennett College for womenAand Elizabeth City StateinUnivergroups like the 100 Black Men of America and the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American & Culture in Charlotte. number of colleges North churches throughout North Carolina. The program distributes defibrillators—medisity & also receive contributions. Health programs atand North Central UniverCarolina receive assistance including the school band at North Carolina Agricultural Technical State University in Greensboro itsCarolina Aggie Foundation. Golf cal equipment that assists people with emergency heart problems. tournaments at Bennett College for women and Elizabeth City State University also receive contributions. Health programs at North Carolina Central University sity and Johnson C. Smith University are sponsored as is an alumni program at the Other programs support social activities for groups like the NC Black LegislaandCaucus Johnson SmithB.University are for sponsored as is an Arts alumni program UniversityofofNorth NorthCarolina, Carolina, Chapel Below are colleges the colleges and the proChapel Hill.Hill. Below are the and the programs tive theC. Harvey Gantt Center African-American & Culture in at the University grams sponsored by BCBSNC at each. sponsored by BCBSNC at each. Charlotte. A number of colleges in North Carolina receive assistance including the
College: North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University Location: Greensboro Website: www.ncat.edu Founded: 1890 No. of Students: 9,151 Contribution to: Blue & Gold Marching Machine; Aggie Athletic Foundation
College: Bennett College for Women Location: Greensboro Website: www.bennett.edu Founded: 1873 No. of Students: 780 Contribution to: Annual Bennett College/United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Golf Tournament
College: Johnson C. Smith University Location: Charlotte Website: www.jcsu.edu Founded: 1867 No. of Students: 1,500 Contribution to: Growing Healthy Communities
College: North Carolina Central University Location: Durham Website: www.nccu.edu Founded: 1910 No. of Students: 8,612 Contribution to: Health assessment room for nurses
College: Elizabeth City State University Location: Elizabeth City Website: www.ecsu.edu Founded: 1891 No. of Students: 3,100 Contribution to: ECSU Foundation golf classic
College: University of North Carolina Location: Chapel Hill Website: www.alumni.unc.edu Founded: 1789 No. of Students: 29,390 Contribution to: Black Alumni Review
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Urban Call — Healthy Living Every Day!
Frequently asked questions
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina staff can assist Health care reform is for everyone. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina is hosting statewide meetings to assist consumers who want to know more about it.
Roy Watson Jr. Director, Small Group & Individual Under 65 Sales
Montressa Sneed Regional Sales Manager
Jasmine Smith Diversity Marketing
Income figure key to lower insurance cost Subsidies will be available to low and middle income Americans purchasing insurance from a Health Insurance Marketplace (Exchange) based on household size, income and access to other affordable coverage.
In the chart below the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for various household sizes is listed in the first column (100 percent). For example, a family of four whose income ranges from $23,850 to $95,400 may be eligible
for assistance. Those whose income is on the lower end of the scale will receive the most government assistance. After family income exceeds 400 percent of the poverty level, assistance is generally unavailable.
Household size
100%
133%
150%
200%
250%
300%
400%
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
$11,670 15,730 19,790 23,850 27,910 31,970 36,030 40,090
$15, 521 20,921 26,321 31,721 37,120 42,520 47,920 53,320
$17,505 23,595 29,685 35,775 41,865 47,955 54,045 60,135
$23,340 31,460 39,580 47,700 55,820 63,940 72,060 80,180
$29,175 39,525 49,475 56,625 69,775 79,925 90,075 100,225
$35,010 47,190 59,370 71,550 83,730 95,910 108,090 120,270
$46, 680 62,920 79, 160 95,400 111,640 127,880 144,120 160,360
Do I qualify for a subsidy? During the Annual Enrollment Period information about qualifying for a subsidy is available on the federal exchange. The web site, BCBSNC.com, also has information. If I have diabetes will I have to pay a lot more for my insurance? Rates are no longer determined on health conditions. A number of different factors now determine your rates and subsidy amount. What is the federal exchange? It is a government-run website that will allow you to compare different health plans, purchase a plan, and receive a subsidy (if you’re eligible.)
The uninsured or those who need to purchase individual insurance will find Community Health Forums especially helpful. Review this income table to see if you may be able to lower your insurance costs. Be sure to attend a forum in your area.
Do I have to go to a Health Insurance Exchange to receive a subsidy? Yes.
Source: http://familiesusa.org/product/federal-poverty-guidelines (accessed August, 2014) These 2014 federal poverty guidelines are for the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C.
For a glossary of terms, see page 5
Role Model Beyond Beauty art to tour nationally The Role Model Beyond Beauty art exhibit launched during the National Black Theatre Festival in Winston-Salem is being scheduled for a national tour through 2016. It will visit large scale African-American events in Charlotte, Atlanta, Chicago and New Orleans. The total collection, which has grown to over 180 women of color, was developed over 20 years through Lafayette Jones’ column, “Role Model Beyond Beauty” in Sophisticate’s Black Hair Styles and Care Guide, the best selling hair care magazine for women of color. Artist Leo Rucker was commissioned to paint the pastel portraits, which appear with a story about the women who are accomplished in their careers and distinguished by community service. The collection includes a variety of women: Rosa Parks, civil rights icon and activity; Dorothy Height, chair/president
emeritus, National Council of Negro Women; Carol Mosley Braun, former U.S. Senator and former ambassador to New Zealand; Sylvia Sprinkle Hamlin, executive producer, National Black Theatre Festival; Chilli Thomas, recording artist and advocate for young women. It is estimated that 200 million people worldwide have seen the role models in the magazine which is distributed in 40,000 black beauty salons and can be purchased at major retailers like Walmart, Walgreens, Kmart, CVS and Sally Beauty stores. The publication and column have a black women’s bi-monthly global readership of 1.6 million in the top 50 markets in the United States and in West Africa (Ghana, Ivory Coast); South Africa (Cape Town, Johannesburg), London, Paris, Milan, the Caribbean and South America (Brazil).
Rosa Parks Civil Rights Icon and Activist
Eunice Dudley Company Founder
Dorothy Height Chair/President Emeritus Nat’ll Council of Negro Women
Erika Green TV Writer
Sylvia Sprinkle Hamlin Executive Producer National Black Theater Festival
Chilli Thomas Recording Artist
Carol Moseley Braun Former U.S. Senator and Ambassador to New Zealand
Dr. Jennifer Mieres Cardiologist
To view the exhibit opening at Winston-Salem’s Sawtooth Gallery, visit the SMSi-Urban Call Marketing You Tube Channel (http://youtu.be/2VHP8iadIB8.) Visit RoleModelBeyondBeauty.com.
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Urban Call — Healthy Living Every Day!
Urban Call
briefs... AIDS Foundation Blair Underwood Blair Underwood, known for his roles on “LA Law” and “The Event,” is featured on Home Made Simple, a television show on the Oprah Winfrey Network. In one episode Blair Underwood Underwood surprises and honors a hardworking single mom, who has earned her Masters degree with a dualpurpose art room and guest room for her daughter. Underwood won the Humanitarian Award for his work with the Los Angeles chapter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. He served as the spokesperson for YouthAIDS and is involved with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s Blair Underwood Clinic in Washington, DC. North Carolina Mutual Insurance James H. Speed Jr. President/ CEO Since its beginning in 1898, North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company has grown to become one of the nations most widelyknown and successful James H. Speed business institutions. It is the only insurance company in North Carolina with a charter dated before 1900. North Carolina Mutual is the oldest and largest AfricanAmerican life insurance company in the United States. James H. Speed Jr., who assumed office in 2004, is its ninth president.
Small business, insurance White House topic Lafayette Jones and Sandra Miller Jones, head of the SMSi companies, joined Pamela and Montinique Cager at a meeting for small business owners in Washington, D.C. sponsored by Business Forward, a nonprofit that helps business leaders advise federal government officials on how to create jobs and accelerate economic recovery. The Cagers own For All Occasions Catering and a photography business. Pamela is vice president and her husband executive director of the Winston-Salem Black Chamber of Commerce. The SMSi company leaders also met with White House officials about the Affordable Care Act which mandates insurance coverage for all Americans. Carolinas Minority Supplier Development Council The Carolinas Minority Supplier Development Council enhances business opportunities for minorityowned companies by providing network opportunities with corporate members. Major corporations, Eric Watson, financial President Carolinas institutions, Minority Supplier government Development Council, agencies, and Inc. universities that operate within North or South Carolina are members. The council has over 170 corporate members and approximately 425 certified minority-owned businesses. Mental health advocate Melissa Harris-Perry Melissa Harris-Perry, host of MSNBC’s “Melissa Harris-Perry” weekend show, is a presidential endowed chair in politics and international affairs at Wake Forest
University, her alma mater. She keynoted a fundraiser for the Forsyth County Mental Health Melissa Association Harris-Perry, PhD at the school’s TV Host, Wake Forest Wait Chapel, professor urging more emphasis be placed on mental health care for African-Americans. Big Tent gets boost from Kate B. Reynolds trust Karen McNeil-Miller, Ed.D., is chairman of the Kate B. Reynolds Charit-able Trust fund. The fund helped found the Big Tent coalition assisting the Afford-able Care Act implemenKaren McNeil Miller, tation. Ed.D. Chairman, Kate Nearly 100 B. Reynolds Charitable organizations, Trust Fund including the SMSi Companies, are taking part. An advisory board and five workgroups have been organized: outreach, information and education; enrollment best practices; training and information; local coalition building; agent/brokers, in-person assisters. Allen Smart, program vice president at the trust noted: “North Carolina had an outstanding first enrollment period, in part because of the hard work of the Big Tent group.” To learn more contact Lee Dixon, Project Director for the ACA/FFM, at Ldixon@CareShareHealth.org. Ambassador training Lisa Gill, CPA, and Melvin Gill, owners of Harvest Wealth Solutions, a life and health insurance agency, addressed the SMSi Companies ambassador training seminar at Zion Baptist Church in Cary. Lisa Gill provided tax tips. Kenneth Wilkins, special populations outreach coordinator of the North Carolina
Melvin and Lisa Gill Harvest Wealth Solutions Department of Insurance also addressed the training. N.C. Institute of Minority Economic Development The North Carolina Institute of Minority Economic Development is a statewide nonprofit with a mission to build the asset base of underdeveloped populations through economic developAndrea Harris, ment President North Carostrategies lina Institute of Minority that build Economic Development businesses, create jobs, and sustain institutions vital to economically vibrant and socially responsible communities. Insurance solutions at Dixie Classic Fair SMSi Health Insurance Solutions hosted an exhibit at the Dixie Classic Fair where they handed out information on the Affordable
Care Act. The 10-day annual event features nationally known musical entertainment, a wide array of food and beverages, exhibits for livestock, poultry, fine arts and crafts, a worldclass carnival with numerous rides and games among many more activities. It is attended by an average of 325,000 visitors each year.
Steve Harvey Steve Harvey, entertainer and TV host, mentors youth at his Teen Disney Dreamers Academy.
Alvin Borders Alvin Borders is director of the local project How Is Your Heart project in conjunction with the American Heart Association. Visit howisyourheart project.com. (See page 6, “Health disparity endowment honors Dr. Sylvia Flack”)
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SMSiUrbanCallHealth.com Agent website Contact Us Today! SMSi Health Insurance Solutions today! A Blue CrossCall andus Blue Shield(Agent/Agency of North CarolinaName) Authorized Agency A Blue Cross and Blue-Shield of North Carolina authorized agent/agency Call: (866) 341-5283 toll free Text: (336) 692-2151 - E-mail: SMSiPartners@smsi-net.com
Call: (xxx)xxx-xxxx – Text: (xxx)xxx-xxxx – Agency/Agent email address 1 Healthcare.gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/fees-exemptions/exemptions-from-the-fee/. 2 Actual subsidy eligibility and amounts can only be determined by the federal government. ® Marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. U9303, 10/14