2009 - Spring

A publication for the policyholders of the Arkansas

Blue Cross and Blue Shield family of companies

Sheila Nettles gets help from Baptist Health and the Blue — her remarkable story is on Page 4

from nurse to patient, Sheila Nettles experiences

the other side of caregiving

Heart of Gold

Affordable gift idea for the graduate: Page 7 Spring 09

Out of the Blue

Taking women’s cardiac health to heart

Jonesboro stays True Blue

Weight loss pills warning

Lose weight The Healthy Weigh!

Don’t be a couch potato!

Obesity linked to ovarian cancer

Pay your premium by telephone or Web

Celiac disease requires lifestyle changes

Spring and allergies: Both in bloom

ABCs of stress relief

Have you used a skin-numbing product?

Leaves of three — let them be

New law requires members’ SS numbers

Surcharges: What and why?

Fitness Challenge: On the move

The Doctor’s Corner

From the Pharmacist:

Sick with the flu? Stay home!

Health Savings Account pharmacy benefit

reminder

Customer Service telephone numbers

Good for you

Vice President, Communications and Product Development: Karen RaleyEditor: Kelly Whitehorn — [email protected]: Gio Bruno Photographer: Chip BayerContributors: Chip Bayer, Damona Fisher, Kristy Fleming, Jennifer Gordon, Trey Hankins, Heather Iacobacci-Miller, Ryan Kravitz, Kathy Luzietti and Mark Morehead

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Spring 09

is published four times a year by Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield for the company’s members, health-care professionals and other persons interested in health care and wellness.

on Page 10 7 Affordable gift idea for the graduate

10 Putting SilverSneakers at the top

of his list

18 Compare hospital costs online

INSIDE

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Blue & You Spring 2009

As I begin my tenure as president and chief execu-

tive officer of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, I

am mindful of the values on which our company was

built. Those values include operating with integrity, mak-

ing responsible financial decisions and serving as good

custodians of our members’ trust by providing depend-

able service and valuable products. Our values have

stood the test of time and will continue to serve our

members well in these turbulent times. Although our

leadership has changed, our mission and commitment

to the people we serve have not.

We know the economy is tough, and we under-

stand that health care is expensive. At Arkansas Blue

Cross, we remain focused on providing the best value

in health insurance available in the market today. We

honor our commitment to being good stewards of our

members’ money through working to build large and

affordable provider networks so that our members have

access to high quality care. This commitment to value

drives our focus on providing health information and

support so that our members have the information they

need to make good decisions in times of illness and to

live healthier, more productive lives. Our commitment

is visible in the service we provide, both through our

regional offices around the state and by telephone, and

in our assurance that our members’ claims are paid

quickly and accurately.

Arkansas Blue Cross provides peace of mind in

difficult economic times. For more than 60 years, we’ve

been part of the health care system in Arkansas. And

our desire to meet

the health-care fi-

nancing needs of Ar-

kansans in affordable

ways has never been

stronger. We’ve built

our reputation on

dependability and trustworthiness. We care about your

health and your ability to pay for health care when you

need it. And we thank you for allowing us to do so.

A message from our CEO and President, Mark White

Out of the

Blue

Our values

have stood the test

of time and will

continue to serve

our members …

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Sheila Nettles with her four granddaughters: (clockwise from left) Amanda, Alexia, Madison and Kristen. Photo: Cary Nettles

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Cardiac, continued on Page 6

Working as a nurse, Sheila Nettles

thought she was familiar with the signs and symptoms

of cardiac problems, but in 1994 when she arrived at

work huffing and puffing from the short walk inside,

a friend who works in cardiology knew she was more

than out of breath.

“I didn’t realize I was having heart problems,”

Sheila said, “but when I went in the next day for a

stress test, I failed.”

Sheila’s story is significant because it is so com-

mon. According to the National Women’s Health Infor-

mation Center, among all U.S. women who die each

year, one in four dies of heart disease. In 2004, nearly

60 percent more women died of cardiovascular disease

(both from heart disease and stroke) than from all can-

cers combined.

Sheila, who was 51 at the time, was scheduled

for angioplasty in one vessel and quickly slid back into

her routine. She didn’t immediately make any lifestyle

changes, thinking it was a small bump in her life’s jour-

ney and that she was “probably good to go.”

Sheila was working in Oklahoma when she had

the angioplasty but jumped at the opportunity to move

back home to Little Rock in 2002, and join the nursing

team at Baptist Health Medical Center. Her sons live in

central Arkansas, and she was excited to spend more

time with her granddaughters. As part of her move,

Sheila switched insurance to Health Advantage, one of

the companies under the Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue

Shield umbrella.

Soon after her move however, she started having

a similar, but different, feeling in her chest. “This time

there was more pain,” she said, though not enough to

make her panic. “It wasn’t a crushing pain, just a feeling

— almost like a pinching sensation.”

Sheila had become friends with a cardiology

educator in the office next to hers, and she casually

mentioned the strange feeling in her chest. Calmly, her

friend suggested they go to the emergency room, and

she sat Sheila down in a wheelchair before she could

protest. Once again, tests showed she had a blockage

in the same vessel; this time she needed a stent.

Sheila said she never feared for her life — as a

nurse at Baptist Health she knew she was in great

hands — and after working for several years in rehabili-

tation, she had watched many patients recover from the

same procedure. She also knew that through Health

Advantage she had great health insurance coverage.

And, she felt “completely at ease” with Gary Collins,

M.D., the cardiologist who performed the procedure.


“Treating the heart means treating the whole

body,” Dr. Collins said, a philosophy that has gained

Baptist Health the designation of a Blue Distinction

Center for Cardiac Care® by Blue Cross and Blue Shield

plans nationwide and the Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Association.

“We’re a multi-disciplinary medical center, so we

have different specialists available at any given mo-

ment,” he said, adding that heart patients may need

additional care for diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders

or respiratory issues.

The Blue Distinction Centers for Cardiac Care®

program is designed to measurably improve the way

health care is accessed and delivered. When Health Ad-

vantage members, like Sheila, have access to excellent

health care, it means better results for her. It also gives

her the information she needs when making a decision

about where to have a surgery or procedure. When a

hospital has been designated a Blue Distinction Center,

you know they have expertise in that specialty.

“Treating the heart

means treating the

whole body,”

Dr. Gary Collins said.

6


Cardiac, continued from Page 5

6 For Dr. Collins, this means Baptist Health takes

cardiac patients that other hospitals turn away because

those hospitals don’t have the facilities or staff avail-

able to handle the possible complications. And, he said,

Baptist has a record of providing medical care faster to

heart patients than many other hospitals, which is

critical to saving heart muscle tissue during and after a

heart attack.

In order to become a Blue Distinction Center, a

hospital must meet high quality standards established

by an expert panel of physicians, surgeons and other

health-care professionals. When hospitals meet these

standards, they demonstrate better outcomes for their

patients.

Other medical centers designated as Blue Distinc-

tion Centers for Cardiac Care® in the Arkansas Blue

Cross and Blue Shield service area include CHRISTUS

St. Michael Health System in Texarkana, Texas, and St.

Bernards Regional Medical Center in Jonesboro.

Baptist Health Medical Center continues to follow

patients as they go through rehabilitation and preven-

tive therapy to keep their hearts healthy after their pro-

cedures. Dr. Collins said patients like Sheila are coached

on their eating habits, checking their cholesterol and

blood sugar, and stopping smoking.

Members of Arkansas Blue Cross, Health Advan-

tage and eligible members of BlueAdvantage Ad-

ministrators of Arkansas can get help taking care of

their heart through our free Cardiovascular Education

Program in HealthConnect Blue accessed through My

Blueprint, our self-service center on the Web.

After her second procedure, Sheila joined a weight-

loss program through Baptist Health and changed her

eating habits. She also started sharing with her younger

sisters and girlfriends about the importance of heart

health. As her granddaughters grow, she said she will

be sharing that message with them as well.

“Women need to pay attention to their health be-

cause we tend to put off going to the doctor when we

don’t feel well but can’t put a finger on what is wrong,”

Sheila said. “Don’t wait — get it checked out.”

“Women … tend to put off

going to the doctor when

we don’t feel well … ,”

Sheila said. “Don’t wait —

get it checked out.”

Sheila Nettles (left and inset) contemplates the statue in front of Baptist Health Medical Center depicting a helping hand to someone in need.

Signs of heart troubleCommon to men and women:

Chest or arm discomfort, shortness of breath,

dizziness, nausea, abnormal heartbeats or

feeling very tired.

Women may also have:

Heartburn, loss of appetite and coughing.

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Your son or daughter (or maybe grandchild) is about

to graduate from college and you are struggling with

a practical gift idea for the new graduate. Although he

or she already may have an iPhone and a laptop, he or

she may soon be without health insurance. After col-

lege, many young people “age off”

their parents’ insurance policy and

have not yet found a job that offers

group coverage. That’s where you

come in, and we can help.

Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue

Shield offers an individual health

plan, Short-Term Blue, for anyone

who is temporarily uninsured. Here’s the best news

about this plan — it’s very affordable!

Other important information about Short-Term Blue:

1. Short-Term Blue has no monthly premium — you

make one non-refundable payment for the term

of the policy (if you apply online, you can use your

credit card, or have the premium drafted from your

bank account).

2. Coverage can be for a minimum of 30 days up to a

maximum of 182 days.

3. The graduate can apply online (remember, the gradu-

ate must complete the application and provide bank

draft or credit card information at the time of the

application — although you can give him or her your

Affordable gift idea for the graduate

account information if you want to pay for it).

4. There are only a few quick and easy eligibility

questions to answer.

5. The policyholder will have access to more than

6,700 doctors and hospitals.

6. The graduate must live in Arkansas.

7. This policy will cover any unexpected illnesses,

diseases or accidents. It does not cover pre-existing

conditions or prescription drugs. Covered benefits,

excluded benefits and more information can be

found online at arkansasbluecross.com.

8. If the policy ends while the covered member is hos-

pitalized, he or she may be eligible for an extension

of benefits.

We know you want to make sure the new graduate

has one less thing to worry about while searching for

a job; this gift will show your thoughtfulness as well as

give him or her some peace of mind.

And, Short-Term Blue is a great idea for anyone

who is temporarily uninsured -— whether you are be-

tween jobs, working part-time, recently retired and not

yet eligible for Medicare, or a new employee temporar-

ily without coverage.

For more information about Short-Term Blue, visit

arkansasbluecross.com or call 1-800-392-2583 or your

local independent or Farm Bureau agent.

Short-Term

Blue is a

great idea for

anyone who is

temporarily

uninsured.

8


Jonesboro may be the home of the Arkansas State

University Red Wolves, but the city has been true Blue

since 1975 — that’s the year city employees enrolled

with Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield for group

health insurance coverage. And, according to Jonesboro

Mayor Harold Perrin, the city could not be more pleased.

“Because we are a government entity, we have to

bid our health insurance,” said Perrin, who served for 15

years on the city council before moving into the mayor’s

office on Jan. 1, 2009. “And over the years, Arkansas

Blue Cross has come in with the low bid. I can’t remem-

ber them ever being outbid. In addition, the service they

provide is great. They service the account, and service

is something I look at closely. As mayor, I’ve got to take

care of my people.”

The city has more than 500 full-time employees, but

when you add the employees at the library, airport and

housing authority — who also are covered in the ac-

count — the membership roll is more than 600.

“And,” added Gloria Roark, director of Human Re-

sources for the City of Jonesboro, “the city also offers

several products through USAble [Life].”

Since 2000, a big part of the customer service city

employees have come to appreciate is the Northeast

Regional Office, located a few blocks from downtown

Jonesboro.

“Arkansas Blue Cross has worked closely with the

City of Jonesboro’s leadership and membership over

our long relationship,” said Connie Meeks, M.D., medi-

cal director of the Northeast Regional Office. “Since the

Jonesboro stays True BlueJonesboro stays True BlueJonesboro stays True Blue

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Gloria Roark, director of Human Resources for the City of Jones-boro, and Jonesboro Mayor Harold Perrin both cite value and superior customer service as reasons the city has been a group member with Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield since 1975.

regional office was estab-

lished we have been able

to provide even more value

with local initiatives.”

Through the regional office, Arkansas Blue Cross

has offered regular onsite benefit meetings at all city

locations — including City Hall, Public Works, the Fire

Department and the Police Department — during and

after work hours.

“We take advantage of the opportunity to help

members with any questions, but also, we are able to

educate them about new health information and well-

ness tools like HealthConnect Blue.”

In fact, Jonesboro has been participating in the Dia-

betes HealthCheck program since its inception in 2005.

“I call programs like that an ‘extra-

plus’,” said Perrin. “Providing seminars

about health and wellness, and the dia-

betes program in particular — they don’t have

to do that.”

Jonesboro currently is participating in the newly or-

ganized employer alliance, Community HealthCheck, the

goals of which include improving the quality of health of

employees and members in the community.

“Having Arkansas Blue Cross here is not just good

for the City of Jonesboro, it’s good for our citizens as

well,” said Perrin. “It helps Jonesboro, trust me. It’s a

great selling point for economic development in Jones-

boro. We are the medical community in Northeast

Arkansas and Arkansas Blue Cross is a big part of that.”

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Putting SilverSneakers at the top of his list

After losing his footing, Aubrey Scott fell 10 feet to the ground.

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Ask Aubrey Scott about

exercise and he’ll tell you, “It’s on

the top of my list today.” But when

he fell from the top — to the bottom

— of a 10-foot ladder, Aubrey found

out just how important his exercise

regimen with the SilverSneakers

Fitness Program through Arkansas

Blue Cross and Blue Shield really is!

Aubrey, 86, was referred to

SilverSneakers at the Northeast

Arkansas Wellness Center in Jones-

boro, by his long-time friend and

physician, Ray Hall, M.D., in January

2008. All Medi-Pak and

Medi-Pak Advantage

members are eligible

for this free exercise

program.

It didn’t take long before Au-

brey was participating in the muscle

strength and range-of-motion class

and joining the free-form activities.

Even walking at the center gives him

a chance to catch up with old friends

and make new ones. And while

it may feel as if he and his wife,

Margaret, also 86, are just enjoy-

ing time with friends, they also are

preventing disease, improving their

mental health and acuity, increasing

cardiovascular endurance, improving

muscle strength and gaining flexibil-

ity through greater range of motion.

And that can add even more years

to the 61 they already have enjoyed

together.

All his physical agility was put

to the test recently when Aubrey

decided to climb the ladder to his

son’s attic. After losing his foot-

ing, he fell 10 feet to the

ground. Shaken, Aubrey

and Margaret immediately

went to the doctor to as-

sess his injuries, fearing the worst.

Instead, he was delighted to hear he

had no injuries at all. Aubrey said he

feels certain his active lifestyle and

participation in the SilverSneakers

Fitness Program made all the differ-

ence in the outcome of his fall.

“Kara Phillips does a wonderful

job of keeping us very active from

the top of our head to the soles of

our feet,” Aubrey said of the Sil-

verSneakers professional fitness

trainer at the center. Instructors in

the SilverSneakers Fitness Program

are certified and receive in-depth

training in providing exercise that

is specific to the needs of seniors.

Aubrey said Kara “provides a per-

sonal touch” to the program. He and

Margaret enjoy the classes so much

that they have asked for additional

classes to be offered. “It is a very

beneficial program for maintaining a

level of fitness year round, especially

when the weather may prevent

outside activities.”

To enroll in SilverSneakers,

Medi-Pak and Medi-Pak Advantage

members can go to a participating

fitness center near them and

show their ID card. Participating

locations in Arkansas can be found

at silversneakers.com. The Fitness

center staff will assist with enroll-

ment and provide tours of the

locations.

Aubrey Scott said he feels

certain his active lifestyle

and participation in

the SilverSneakers Fitness Program

made all the difference in

the outcome of his fall.

12


The U.S. Food and Drug Admin-

istration (FDA) is seeking a recall on

weight-loss pills that could poten-

tially pose serious health risks to

consumers. Some products being

touted as “dietary supplements”

claiming to be “natural” or contain-

ing “herbal” ingredients actually

contain “undeclared, active phar-

maceutical ingredients that may put

consumers’ health at risk.” The FDA

is urging consumers to not purchase

or take these weight-loss pills due

to health risks such as high blood

pressure, seizures, or even heart

attack or stroke. Just one more rea-

son to lose weight the natural and

healthy way.

For a full list of products be-

ing recalled, visit the FDA’s Web

site at www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/

NEWS/2008/NEW01933.html.

Simply complete, sign and return the attached enrollment form in the self- addressed, postage-paid envelope.

The Healthy Weigh! Educa-

tion Program is free for members

of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue

Shield, Health Advantage, Blue

Cross and Blue Shield Service

Benefit Plan (Federal Employee

Program), and eligible members

of BlueAdvantage Administrators

of Arkansas.

To enroll, complete the at-

tached enrollment form and return

it in the self-addressed, postage-

paid envelope included in this

magazine. The program starts

when you enroll.

After enrollment,

you will begin to receive

information through the

mail, which you can read

in the privacy of your

own home and at your

own pace. The program

is completely voluntary,

and you may leave the

program at any time. If

you have further ques-

tions about the program,

call the Health Education

Program’s toll-free num-

ber at 1-800-686-2609.

Lose weightThe Healthy Weigh!

Weight-loss pills

warning

13


If your husband or son or father is overweight, we know he has a risk factor for heart disease. Howev-er, most people may think that just a few extra pounds is OK. Not true. A study, recently published in the medical journal, Circulation, showed that a few extra pounds along with inactivity raises the risk of heart

failure in men.

As much as two thirds of the

adult population are overweight,

if not obese. Basically, the study

showed that it doesn’t matter if you

are an overweight couch potato or

a lean couch potato, exercise could

extend your life.

A new study suggests a link be-

tween obesity in women and ovarian

cancer, which is the fifth leading cancer

of U.S. women. Researchers found

that obese women were 26 percent

more likely to develop ovarian cancer

than those at a healthy weight, but that

figure increased to 80 percent for obese

postmenopausal women who never

used hormone replacement therapy. The

findings suggest that obesity increases

the risk of ovarian cancer through hor-

monal effects. The major implication is

a familiar one — maintaining a healthy

weight is important.

Source: Medline Plus

Don’t be a couch potato!

Obesity linked to ovarian cancer

14


Does someone you know have an upset stomach

that won’t settle down? He or she may want to get

checked for celiac disease. Celiac disease is a lifelong,

autoimmune disorder that causes the body to attack

itself when a person eats foods that contain a protein

called gluten. Gluten is found in wheat, rye, barley and

many other grains. If celiac

disease is left untreated, dam-

age to the small bowel can be

chronic and life threatening.

Symptoms of celiac

disease may include:

• Recurringbloating,gasor

abdominal pain

• Chronicdiarrheaorconstipationwithpale,foul-

smelling stool

• Unexplainedweightlossorgain

• Anemia,fatigue,weaknessorlackofenergy

• Boneorjointpain

• Behaviorchanges/depression/irritability

• VitaminKdeficiency

• Cankersores,toothdiscolorationorlossofenamel

Because celiac disease is chronic, the only treat-

ment is a gluten-free diet. Adapting to the gluten-free

diet requires some lifestyle changes. It is essential to

read labels and learn how to

identify foods that are gluten

free. (Potential harmful ingredi-

ents include starches, binders,

fillers and malt.)

Gluten also may be used

as a binder in some pharma-

ceutical products. You can ask your pharmacist for help

in identifying medications that contain gluten.

Source: National Institutes of Health

Celiac disease requires lifestyle changes


If you have an individual or family policy (not

through an employer) with Arkansas Blue Cross and

Blue Shield, we now offer two convenient and secure

ways to pay your premium.

1. You can call Customer Service at 1-800-238-8379,

and a representative can take your payment informa-

tion over the telephone.

2. Or, you can pay your premium online for free:

Pay your premium over the telephone or on the Web! Making your payment just got easier.

a. Go to arkansasbluecross.com.

b. Visit(orregisterfor)thememberself-service

center (My Blueprint).

c. Select “Pay Premiums Online” and follow the

instructions.

If you have any questions about either of the pre-

mium payment options, please call Customer Service

at 1-800-238-8379.

Celiac disease can

be chronic and

life threatening.

15


The warm winds of spring usu-

ally are a welcomed respite after a

long, cold winter. But those bloom-

ing flowers and trees, while provid-

ing a colorful relief from gray skies,

also bring something else.

Allergies.

It is estimated that almost

40 million Americans suffer from

seasonal allergies — what we often

refer to as “hay fever.” This results

in approximately 8 million annual

visits to the doctor and billions of

dollars spent on medications.

U. S. companies always report high-

er absenteeism during the spring,

as a direct result of allergies.

So, what exactly causes all

this fuss? It can be any number

of things. But a seasonal allergy

is essentially an allergic reaction

to something that is only present

for part of the year — usually in

the spring or fall. In the spring, the

culprit is almost certainly pollen — a

powdery grain released from flower-

ing plants.

In a state like Arkansas, known

for its natural beauty, the potential

for large amounts of pollen in the

air during the spring and summer

months is rather high.

What’s a person to do?

If your allergies are severe, an

allergist can help you determine

which allergens affect you the most.

In some cases, allergy shots are

necessary to alleviate symptoms. In

most people, however, some simple

Spring and allergies:

steps can help a great deal in reduc-

ing your exposure to pollen and its

ill effects.

• Keepwindowsclosedtoprevent

pollen from getting in your home.

• Keepcarwindowsclosedwhile

driving.

• Stayindoorswhenthepollen

count is expected to be high.

• Avoidearly-morningoutdoor

activity. Pollen is usually emitted

between 5 and 10 a.m.

• Takeavacationtosomewhere

with less pollen, like the beach,

during the height of the pollen

season.

• Machinedryyourlaundry.Pollen

collects on laundry that is line

dried.

Springtime allergens are inevi-

table. But you can fight back.

Sources: Centers for Diseases

Control and Prevention, U.S. Depart-

ment of Health and Human Services

A seasonal allergy is

essentially an

allergic reaction

to something that is

only present for part

of the year.

BOTH IN BLOOM

16


We all have stress in our lives. It’s impossible to avoid it. Unfortu-

nately, too much stress can have a negative affect on our health. While we

can’t avoid it entirely, there may be some things we can do to help relieve

stress in our lives. Just remember your ABCs.

A• Avoidstresswhenpossiblebylearningtosa

y,“no,”andcuttingdown

that out-of-control to-do list.

• Accepttheunavoidableorunchangeable–youcan’tchang

eeverything.

• Adjustunreasonableexpectations.

B• Breathe—Stopandtakeadeepbreath

;then,reassessthestressful

situation from a calmer perspective. Breathing exercises can help you

to refocus, relax and reduce your heart rate.

• Bekindtoyourselfbysettingasidetimetodosomethingyouenjoylike

taking a walk, reading a book or magazine or talking with a friend.

C• Changeyourexpectationsan

dattitudebyfindingthepositivesortaking

a new look at the problem.

• Compromisebyfindingamiddlegroundratherthanalwaysexpecting

change to come from others.

Source: Helpguide, Texas Woman’s University and WebMD

If you have used a

skin-numbing product, take

note — according to the

U.S. Food and Drug Admin-

istration (FDA), they may

cause serious side effects

including irregular heartbeat,

seizures, difficulty breathing,

ABCs of stress relief

Have you used a skin-numbing product?coma or death.

So what are they? Skin-numbing products, or topi-

cal anesthetics, are used to numb the surface of the

skin. Trained medical professionals frequently use them

in medical procedures, but they also may be used in

cosmetic procedures or used to relieve pain, burning or

itching due to a variety of medical conditions. They are

available with a prescription and over the counter. They


For more ways to beat stress, check out the Relax® program behind My Blueprint on our Web sites.

17


“I don’t know how I got poison ivy.”

Well, it’s probably easier than you think. Did you give your dog a hug after he came in

from the backyard? Take a hike down a local trail? Burn some brush and sticks while on a

camping trip?

Poison ivy, oak or sumac can be just about anywhere, and it sticks to everything. If you

have ever had a case of the infamous itch, you know you want to avoid it.

Poison ivy, sumac and oak contain an oil called urushiol (you-ROO-shee-all). When this oil

touches the skin, many people develop an allergic reaction that causes a rash.

The best way to prevent an allergic reaction is to be able to recognize these plants — and

then avoid them — when you see them in the woods or in your backyard.

If you accidently come in contact with one of these plants, wash your skin well with luke-

warm water and soap. All clothing should be laundered, and everything else that may be con-

taminated with urushiol should be washed thoroughly. Urushiol can remain active for a long

time. For mild cases, cool showers and an over-the-counter product that eases itching can be

effective. Oatmeal baths and baking-soda mixtures also can sooth the discomfort. When a se-

vere reaction develops, contact your physician or dermatologist. Prescription medication may

be needed to reduce the swelling and itch.

Have you used a skin-numbing product?contain anesthetic drugs such as lidocaine or benzo-

caine and come as creams, ointments or gels that are

applied to the surface of the skin and then absorbed

into the blood stream.

According to the FDA, with topical anesthetics, you

should not:

• Applyheavilyoverlargeareasoftheskin

• Useformulasstrongerthannecessary

Leaves of three let them be

Poison ivy

Poison sumac

Poison oak

• Applytobrokenorirritatedskin

• Wraptreatedskinwithplasticorotherdressings

• Applyheatfromaheatingpadtotreatedareas

As with any medication, remember to use only

as directed.

Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration

18


Your husband’s doctor has recommended surgery

or a procedure that requires he spend time in the hospi-

tal. So you may want to compare the quality of the care

that different hospitals have provided for the recom-

mended surgery or procedure. There are differences

between hospitals, and Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue

Shield can provide you with information on how

hospitals perform.

You may want information on how many pa-

tients have been admitted for this surgery, or the

number of deaths or complications related to this

surgery at this hospital, or how many days some-

one who had this surgery remained in the hospital. And

now, if you are looking for cost information related to

this type of surgery, it also is available online.

To get this information and much more, visit the

member self-service center (My Blueprint) of our Web

sites (see complete list on Page 23) and select “Com-

pare hospital quality.” This will allow you to compare

hospitals in your area. With this tool (WebMD Hospital

Advisor), members may compare how the hospitals se-

lected have performed when treating other members of

the health plan or when treating those on Medicare.

The “Cost” category represents the amount a

hospital may be paid by the health plan in compari-

son to other hospitals in the state. This category

does not represent the amount you pay. The

hospitals are rated by the following categories —

Low Cost, Average Cost and High Cost — in com-

parison to other hospitals.

VisitourWebsiteandyou’llfindhospitalinforma-

tion you need to help you make informed decisions

about your health care and the health-care needs of

your family.

Compare hospital

costs online18

19


On Jan. 1, 2009, a new

federal health coverage reporting

law came into effect that re-

quires health insurers and third-

party administrators to provide

Social Security numbers from

members of group health plans

to the Centers for Medicare and

Medicaid Services (CMS). This

information will allow Medicare

to properly coordinate payments

with other health plans and/or

workers’ compensation benefits.

Section 111 of Public Law

110-173, also known as the

Medicare, Medicaid and SCHIP

Extension Act of 2007, requires

group health plans, insurers,

third-party administrators and

plan administrators or fiduciaries

of self-insured/self-administered

group health plans to report infor-

mation required for purposes of

coordination of benefits.

Because of this law, you

may receive a letter in the mail

from Arkansas Blue Cross and

Blue Shield, Health Advantage or

BlueAdvantage Administrators of

Arkansas asking for Social Secu-

rity numbers for you and/or your

dependent(s). Simply write in the

information and return the letter

using the enclosed postage paid

envelope by the date requested.

Arkansas Blue Cross (and its

family of companies) is commit-

ted to your privacy and holds

your information in complete

confidence. In accordance with

applicable laws, including the

Privacy Act of 1074 and the

Health Insurance Portability and

Accountability Act Privacy Rule,

CMS also maintains your confi-

dentiality.

We appreciate your assis-

tance in providing this informa-

tion. Please call the Customer

Service number for your health

plan listed on Page 23 if you

have any questions.

If you have applied for Arkansas

Blue Cross and Blue Shield individual

coverage, you may have noticed a “sur-

charge” on your policy. A surcharge is

an additional cost added to your premi-

um for a medical condition (for example,

high blood pressure, high cholesterol,

allergies, etc.).

Offering affordable health insurance

is important at Arkansas Blue Cross.

One way we reduce the cost of indi-

vidual health insurance is to underwrite

applicants. Underwriting allows us to

assess the potential for risk associated

with each applicant. If an applicant is

high risk, we have three options:

1. Charge a higher premium.

2. Exclude the condition that has

increased the risk.

3. Decline to offer coverage.

We use the first two options when

necessary and only decline coverage as

a last resort. Sometimes, the only way

we can offer coverage is to add an addi-

tional cost (surcharge) to the premium.

For more information about indi-

vidual and family insurance plans (for

those under age 65 and not covered

by Medicare), visit arkansasbluecross.

com or call 1-800-392-2583 or your local

independent or Farm Bureau agent.

Surcharges on individual and family policies:

What and why?

New law requires members’ Social Security numbers


19

20


On the move with the Fitness Challenge

The Blue & You Fitness Chal-

lenge is in full swing after a record

205 groups (with an eligible popula-

tion of more than 110,000 partici-

pants) from throughout the United

States have pledged to “invest in

fitness” for 2009.

“Exercise requires only a small

investment of time and movement

and promises a great rate of re-

turn on your health,” said Richard

Cooper, vice president of Human

Resources and team champion

for Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue

Shield. “More than 110,000 Ameri-

cans are eligible to make a move

toward better health by participating

in the Challenge this year.”

This is the sixth year for the

Challenge, which is hosted by

Arkansas Blue Cross, the Arkansas

Department of Health and the Ar-

kansas Department of Human Ser-

vices. The exercise contest encour-

ages participants to work toward

the public health recommendation

of adult physical activity 30 minutes

each day, most days of the week.

Groups — representing large

and small companies, banks,

schools and universities, physician

offices, churches, hospitals and gov-

ernment agencies — are ranked by

size for the competition. At the end

of the contest, winners will be an-

nounced in each group size catego-

ry. Groups whose participants have

the greatest participation and

score the highest in

four categories of measurements

will be the overall winners of the

Blue & You Fitness Challenge.

Governor Mike Beebe

declared February 24 as “Fit-

ness Challenge” day in

Arkansas in recognition of the con-

test in a decree that was unveiled at

the contest kickoff.

Didn’t get signed up this year?

Watch groups as they progress in

real time at BlueAndYouFitnessChal-

lenge-ark.com this year and plan to

be part of the fun in 2010.

Special note: Before beginning any

exercise program, always consult

your physician.

More than

110,000

eligible

participants

for 2009.

21


by Ray Bredfeldt, M.D.,Regional Medical DirectorNorthwest Region, Fayetteville

TheDoctor’s Corner

Free drug samples come

with a cost.

Has your doctor ever given

you a free sample of a medication?

Probably. Your doctor gets those

samples from the pharmaceutical

companies as a way to advertise

their products. However, a new

study shows that these samples

may not be such a good deal for

you. Pharmaceutical companies

usually provide samples of the

most expensive medications. On

average, people who receive free

samples spend 50 percent more on

medications than those who receive

a prescription for a less expensive

medication. So, go ahead and be

thankful for those free samples —

just remember to ask your doctor if

there is a less expensive alternative

when the sample runs out.

Colonoscopies and PSAs

after age 75?

The U.S. Preventive Services

Task Force, the most respected

preventive health organization in

the country, recently recommend-

ed against receiving a screening

colonoscopy after age 75. The Task

Force also recommended that men

above age 75 no longer receive the

PSA (prostate-specific antigen test).

The Task Force believes that the

risks associated with screening and

follow-up testing and treatment of

abnormal results cause more harm

than good after that age. In addition,

the Task Force recommended that

men younger than 75 ask their doc-

tors about the potential risks and

lack of evidence for PSA screening.

Take your Vitamin D!

IsVitaminDthenewwonder

drug? According to several studies,

VitaminDseemstoplayanimpor-

tant role not only in bone formation

but many other things. A recent

study in the Archives of Internal

MedicinehasshownthatVitaminD

deficiency is linked to an increased

risk for coronary artery disease,

several types of cancer, migraine

headaches, epilepsy, chronic pain,

and inflammatory bowel disease.

Arthritis of the knee?

Surgery may not be the

best bet.

Arthroscopic surgery into the

knee joint to remove debris from

the knee is a common procedure for

people with degenerative arthritis.

The hope is that knee pain will

improve after the debris is removed.

Each year in the United States, sev-

eral hundred thousand arthroscopic

surgeries are performed for this rea-

son. However, a recent study in the

New England Journal of Medicine

reported that the people who had

the surgery along with medication

and physical therapy did not have a

better outcome than those who only

received medication and physical

therapy. The surgery appears to add

no benefit but does add unneeded

risk and cost.

22


Sick with the flu? Stay home!

by Brandon Griffin, Pharm D.,Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield

The flu season got a slow start

this year, but don’t be fooled; chanc-

es are we still will get our fair share

of sore throats, aches and fever.

If you haven’t already gotten

one, it isn’t too late for a flu shot.

The Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention (CDC) recently said that

the 2008-09 vaccine is effective in

preventing or reducing the severity

of illness with currently circulating

flu viruses. The CDC also warned,

however, that the flu virus circu-

lating this year is resistant to the

antiviral medication oseltamivir, also

known as Tamiflu, but that other

antiviral medications are working

against the virus.

So, as a pharmacist, what’s the

best advice I have if that weak, achy

feeling starts to hit you? Stay home!

And don’t think your boss will be

mad if you do. According to the

2007 CCH Unscheduled Absence

Survey, 87 percent of employers

report that sick employees who

show up to work are suffering from

short-term illnesses such as a cold

or flu, which can be easily spread.

CCH is a leading provider of human

resources and employment law

information and services.

When sick employees show

up for work, known as “presentee-

ism,” there is a significant and costly

impact on an organization, not only

in terms of risking the spread of

disease, but also in terms of di-

minished productivity, quality and

attention to safety. Overall, the CCH

Survey found that 38 percent of em-

ployers report presenteeism being a

problem in their organizations.

The CDC estimates that indi-

viduals who get the flu may be able

to infect others from the day before

their symptoms develop, to five

days after becoming sick.

Technology today allows many

of us the ability to work from home

if needed. If you simply can’t stay

away from the office, here are some

ways to stop the spread of germs:

• Avoidhigh-trafficareasinyour

building where your co-workers

may come in contact with you.

• Doasmuchcommunicationas

possible by telephone and e-mail.

Shut your office door to keep out

visitors.

• Coveryourmouthandnose

when you sneeze or cough.

• Cleanyourhandsoftenanduse

antiseptic lotions.

• Avoidtouchingyoureyes,nose

or mouth.

Sources: The Centers for Disease

Control and Prevention, CCH

When sick employees show up for work, known as

“presenteeism,” there is a significant and costly impact on

an organization.

From the Pharmacist

23


We love to hear from you!May we help? For customer service please call:

Little Rock Toll-free Number (501) Number

Medi-Pak members 378-3062 1-800-338-2312

Medi-Pak Advantage or Medi-Pak Rx 1-866-390-3369

Arkansas Blue Cross members 378-2010 1-800-238-8379

Pharmacy questions 1-800-863-5561

Specialty Rx Pharmacy questions 1-866-295-2779

Health Advantage members 378-2363 1-800-843-1329


BlueAdvantage members 378-3600 1-888-872-2531


State and Public School members 378-2364 1-800-482-8416

Federal Employee members 378-2531 1-800-482-6655

Looking for health or dental insurance? We can help!

For individuals, families and those age 65 or older 378-2937 1-800-392-2583

For employer groups 378-3070 1-800-421-1112 (Arkansas Blue Cross Group Services, which includes Health Advantage and BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas)

Prefer to speak with someone close to home? Regional Office telephone numbers:

Pine Bluff/Southeast Region 1-800-236-0369 1800 West 73rd St.Jonesboro/Northeast Region 1-800-299-4124 707 East Matthews Ave.Hot Springs/South Central Region 1-800-588-5733 100 Greenwood Ave., Suite CTexarkana/Southwest Region 1-800-470-9621 1710 Arkansas BoulevardFayetteville/Northwest Region 1-800-817-7726 516 East Milsap Rd., Suite 103Fort Smith/West Central Region 1-866-254-9117 3501 Old Greenwood Rd., Suite 5Little Rock/Central Region 1-800-421-1112 320 West Capitol Ave., Suite 900

Web sites: arkansasbluecross.comhealthadvantage-hmo.com

blueadvantagearkansas.com blueandyoufoundationarkansas.org

blueannewe-ark.com

Do you have a Health Savings Account High De-

ductible Health Plan through Health Advantage? If you

do, you might not realize that you are eligible for net-

work discounts at your pharmacy. Also be sure your

pharmacy submits your claims through your insurance

so that they can be applied to your deductible.

There are a few pharmacies that have not submit-

ted claims to the insurance companies because the

pharmacist has stated that he/she could offer a better

cash price than what the insurance company would

otherwise allow. However, when a pharmacy offers a

price lower than what your insurance normally charges,

they still should send the cash price to the insurance

company as the submitted cost.

If your pharmacist informs you that your medica-

tion would cost less if you paid cash without running

the claim through your insurance, please ask him/her to

submit the cash price to the insurance company. If the

cash price is less than what we would normally allow,

then the claim system will only charge you the cash

price (the lower price). Running the claim through insur-

ance also allows the paid amount to be applied to your

deductible.

If your pharmacy refuses to submit their cash price

to your insurance company, please contact your insur-

ance company’s customer service department so that

this situation can be remedied.

Health Savings Account pharmacy benefit reminder

24


At Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, we are always looking for new ways to be "Good for You." Here are some of our latest accomplishments.

Our news is good newsVisit“Newsroom”onarkansasabluecross.comforall

the latest news from Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue

Shield. Plus, find company information, photos and

bios of our executives, key statistics and information

about how we are good for you!

Looking for insurance?VisitourWebsitesunder“LookingforInsurance?”and

find insurance to meet the needs of you and your fam-

ily. We have Medicare plans if you are aging into those

plans, individual plans if your company no longer offers

health insurance, and employer health plans and dental

plans. Call us at 1-800-421-1112 to help you find a plan

that fits your needs and budget.

We're in your neighborhood! Helpisrightaroundthecornerwhenyouneedit.Visit

one of our local regional offices when you need help

right away. (A complete list of addresses and telephone

numbers is on the inside back cover.) We’re here

for you!

Spring Break plans?As a member of an Arkansas Blue

Cross and Blue Shield health plan,

your ID card is your link to coverage

and doctors and hospitals through-

out the United States when you are traveling. If you

are traveling out of state and need medical care, call

1-800-810-BLUE (2583) to find the name of the nearest

participating hospital. (If it is an emergency, go directly

to the nearest hospital’s emergency room.)

OR, before you travel you can go online to our Web

sites to access the BlueCard Doctor and Hospital Finder

through the Provider Directory.

Documents

2009 - Spring