spring/summer 2018 independenthealth.com asthma …€¦ · if medically necessary, a prescription...

SPRING/SUMMER 2018

Asthma & Allergy Spring survival guide

GET REWARDED FOR HEALTHY FOOD CHOICES

CONTACT A DOCTOR ANYTIME WITH TELADOC®

Teaming upwith the

Buffalo Bills See page 6.

INDEPENDENTHEALTH.COM

2 HEALTHSTYLES • SPRING/SUMMER 2018

Spring into health this season by participating in a variety of health and wellness activities throughout the region. See page 6 to learn how Independent Health and its community partners are helping Western New Yorkers stay fit and active. We also want to make sure you and your family are eating healthy. Check out page 7 to find out where you can enjoy Healthy Options menu items when dining out.

IN OUR COMMUNITY

3 FitWorks® brings wellness to the workplace7 Kids Run celebrates

30 years of family, fitness and fun

FOR YOUR BENEFIT

4 Take advantage of member discounts5 Online health tools

available to you

TAKE CHARGE

10 Start early to prevent heart trouble

INSIDE this issue

Buy more green, get some backIndependent Health’s Nutrition Benefit offers our members the opportunity to get money-back rewards on fresh fruits and vegetables.* The best part: It’s included as a wellness benefit option within many of our individual and small group market products, and it’s often available on large group health plans.

How our nutrition benefit worksMembers receive $1 back in rewards for every $2 they spend on fresh fruits and vegetables at Tops Friendly Markets. The reward dollars are paid out quarterly in the form of an in-store rewards card that can be used on future in-store grocery purchases, excluding tobacco products. Members can earn up to $1,000 on their produce purchases each year on a family plan and up to $500 on a single plan, with the benefit rewards tracked through the Tops BonusPlus® program.

Members earned more than $906,000 in total reward dollars by purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables at Tops in 2017. Since the nutrition benefit was launched in January 2014, nearly 38,400 rewards cards have been issued.

Register to start saving! If your plan includes the nutrition benefit, activate it by simply registering or logging in as an Independent Health member at independenthealth.com, and then enter your Tops BonusPlus or BonusCard number when prompted. You will then receive an email within 10 business days confirming that you can start earning points on eligible purchases at Tops. It’s that easy!

The nutrition benefit is just one of the many ways Independent Health is making it easier for our members to make wiser health care choices and adopt healthier behaviors. For more information about this innovative benefit, visit independenthealth.com/nutrition.

*Benefits vary by plan. $2 in fresh produce must be purchased in a single transaction. $2 in fresh produce spending is calculated after all store discounts have been subtracted for your order. Canned or frozen fruits and vegetables are excluded. Money back is in the form of store credit for future purchases. Rewards cards will expire one year after date of issuance. You can obtain rewards card balance information by following the instructions on the back of the card.

The Wellness Magazine for Independent Health Members

14 3-step guide to meditation

Receive our online newsletter, HealthStyles Monthly, by registering for your own member account at independenthealth.com.

get fit

INDEPENDENTHEALTH.COM 3

FitWorks®: Bringing wellness to the workplaceFor nearly 30 years, Independent Health has been providing employers with the programs, tools and expertise they need to keep both their employees and their bottom line healthy. Since most adults spend more than half of their waking hours at work, Independent Health believes that worksites are the perfect setting to promote healthy lifestyle behaviors.

Many of us need a little extra encouragement to stay on the path toward healthier living. Independent Health developed Health ExtrasSM* as a way to do just that. This popular benefit can help our members get more engaged in their health and develop sustainable, healthy lifestyle behaviors, while also saving them some money in the process.

Health Extras offers eligible members the freedom to choose from a variety of health-related activities and services for themselves or their dependents. It provides a $250 prepaid Health Extras Mastercard that members may use on fitness center memberships and programs, massage therapists, healthy prepared meals, vitamins and herbs, and more.

Recently, Independent Health welcomed Weight Watchers® as a new participating Health Extras partner. Members who have the Health Extras benefit can now use their Health Extras debit card to pay for a Weight Watchers membership. Plus, they can save 10% on Weight Watchers’ new Freestyle program pricing.

To get started with Weight Watchers using your Health Extras benefit or to view the complete list of participating Health Extras vendors, visit independenthealth.com/healthwise.

*Benefits vary by plan. Please check your summary of benefits to see whether one of these benefits is associated with your plan.

Weight Watchers® joins Health ExtrasSM network

At the core of our worksite efforts is FitWorks®, an online wellness tool that engages employees in meaningful activities and a variety of wellness challenges that can improve their health and help them build a better relationship with their doctor. FitWorks is unique because it’s available to groups of all sizes, regardless of whether a business or company employs five people or 500.

FitWorks® RewardsIf you are enrolled in a small group plan (employer has fewer than 100 employees), you are eligible to participate in FitWorks Rewards by creating a secure online account at ihfitworks.com. Upon activating your account, you can earn points by completing claims-verified clinical activities and screenings, along with self-reported wellness challenges that you can track online. For every 50 points you earn, you will be entered in a monthly drawing for either a $100 or $250 Visa® reward card. The reward is based on the type of challenges or activities you complete. Reward cards can be used for health and wellness services, such as a gym membership, workout apparel, healthy cookbooks and more.

FitWorks® PrimeThrough FitWorks Prime, our dedicated staff of corporate wellness specialists works directly with large group employers to design comprehensive worksite wellness programs based on a thorough analysis of needs and interests conducted prior to implementation. As a result, we can create customizable wellness programs for the entire year that are specific to each group’s needs. These programs

focus on a variety of topics, including eating healthy, getting active and fit, and managing stress. Each group has the flexibility to upload its own health and wellness challenges to FitWorks. Points earned by employees for completing these activities can then be linked to incentive programs.

If you don’t receive health insurance through an employer, don’t worry. We have your back, too! FitWorks Rewards is also included as part of all our individual plans. To learn more about our FitWorks programs, visit independenthealth.com/fitworks.

for your benefit

Beginning on your plan’s 2018 renewal date, Teladoc will now have a $0 copayment* or a low copayment, according to your plan benefits.

Common illnessesTeladoc connects you and your covered dependents to a national network of board certified doctors who average 15 years’ experience. Simply go online to www.teladoc.com/ih, use the Teladoc mobile app or call 1 (800) TELADOC (835-2362) to provide a medical history and request a consult.

Within minutes, a doctor will contact you, ready to listen and resolve your issues any time of the day. If medically necessary, a prescription will be sent to a pharmacy of your choice.


Contact a doctor anytime with telemedicine benefitAt Independent Health, we understand there may be times when you can’t reach your primary care physician. That’s why we offer a telemedicine benefit provided through Teladoc® that allows you to connect with a doctor by phone at any time from anywhere. Consultations are also available by online video, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week.

Independent Health has partnered with a variety of organizations and health care providers throughout the community to offer our members a wide range of special savings. Here are just some of the discounts you are eligible for:• Buffalo Bills Store—Receive 20% off a purchase of $50 or

more (excluding jerseys) when shopping at the Bills store at New Era Field.

• Buffalo Museum of Science—Save 10% on a museum membership, which you can use to check out Explore YOU, a health science studio presented by Independent Health.

• Buffalo RiverWorks—Receive discounts for many of the health- and wellness-related activities RiverWorks hosts during the year, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, pickleball, open skating and curling. Information about these activities is available at www.buffaloriverworks.com.

• D’Avolio Olive Oils, Vinegars & More—Receive a 10% discount on all store products except for prepared foods. Also, save additional 30% on D’Avolio seasonings.

• Alternative therapies—Receive 20% off services for acupuncture and massage therapy at select practitioners.

• Dental care—If you don’t have dental insurance, you may be eligible for a free exam with a $50 cleaning (twice per year) and 20% off other services at select dental providers.

• Hearing aids—If you do not have hearing aid device coverage, you may receive a discount on conventional or digital devices at select audiologists.

To receive these discounts, simply present your Independent Health member ID card at the time of purchase. For a list of all discounts, visit independenthealth.com/discounts.

Take advantage of exclusive member discounts

Teladoc is a faster way to feel better for non-emergency conditions, such as:• Allergies • Bronchitis • Cold and flu symptoms • Ear infections • Pinkeye • Poison ivy • Respiratory infections • Sinus problems • Urinary tract infections

Specialist recommendationsIf you’re wondering whether you are in need of specialist care, Teladoc doctors can offer advice about what type of specialist to see—helping you save time and money.

Pediatric careHave kids? If so, Teladoc pediatricians can

help. Teladoc is the only telehealth provider with a national network of board certified pediatricians able to treat children ages zero to 17.

Please note: Independent Health’s telemedicine benefit is not intended to replace your relationship with your primary care doctor. Instead, it offers you and your family members an alternative to seeking care from an urgent care facility or emergency room, or when it is difficult to obtain services from your PCP. To learn more, visit independenthealth.com/telemedicine.

*HSA-qualified plans by law require member liability (low copayment) for Teladoc services until a deductible is satisfied, after which a $0 copayment applies. Log on to your online account for your specific benefit information.


making it easy

Looking to review your benefits, check the status of a claim, update your contact information or print your member ID card? You can do all of this by registering for an online account at independenthealth.com. Simply click on the “Register” button in the “Log In” box, which is located in the upper left-hand corner of our website, and then follow the directions.

There are also a variety of essential tools and information at independenthealth.com that can help you take charge and live the healthy lifestyle you deserve. Here are just some of the online features that are available to you:• Health Dashboard—This tool provides

you with a personalized list of preventive care services for each member of your family—including annual checkups, flu shots, mammograms, colonoscopies and more. Create your online account to see what preventive tests or screenings you and your covered dependents may need.

• Compare costs—If you need a routine medical service, like an X-ray or MRI, you

At Independent Health, we want all of our members to make the best decisions when it comes to their health and the care they receive. That’s why we provide Healthwise®, a one-stop online resource that features:• Health decision tools that are designed to guide you

through key health decisions pertaining to medical tests, medications and surgery

• A medication interaction checker• A symptom checker• Support group information

By visiting independenthealth.com/healthwise, you will be able to access a variety of easy-to-use interactive tools and information that can be used to help you achieve your health and wellness goals.

Interactive toolsGet interactive. Easy-to-use personal calculators make learning about your health simple and engaging. Choose from several topics, categorized by “Health and Fitness,” “Lifestyle Checkup” and “Pregnancy.”

Giving you the tools you need to be Healthwise®

Video libraryWatch and become better educated. The new video library contains a large catalog of videos that can be filtered by:• Condition• Tests and treatments• Patient support• Wellness and family

Health topicsFind what you’re looking for. View a wide range of health topics, from A to Z, all at your fingertips. Topics include asthma, blood pressure management, diabetes, eating healthy, exercise, medications and vaccinations.

Learning centersLearn more. Health-related topics are categorized to provide easy-to-understand explanations of various conditions.

We encourage you to be health smart by visiting our website and using Healthwise.

• Healthy living tips and guidelines—Find informative health guidelines that will help you stay current with today’s latest health trends.

*For deductible plans only. The tracker applies to your in-network deductible and reflects claims that have been submitted by your provider(s) and processed by Independent Health.

may have options on where to go that could help you save money. View a list of services that may cost less at a freestanding facility than at a hospital and see the cost difference.

• Ways to save on health care—Learn more about your plan benefits and options so that you can be a wiser health care consumer and reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

• Deductible Tracker*—Get an instant snapshot of how much you have paid toward your in-network deductible by logging in to your online account.

• FitWorks®—This is an online wellness program that features a Well-Being Assessment, individual challenges, tracking tools, and links to wellness programs and services (see page 3).

• Find a doctor or medical facility—Search for doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, urgent care locations and other providers participating in Independent Health’s network.

Visit our website to access helpful tools and resources


good to knowin the community

Teaming up with the Buffalo Bills to improve health and wellness of WNYYou are invited to participate in the latest round of the Independent Health and Buffalo Bills Health & Wellness Challenge, a six-week fitness and nutrition program designed to help motivate Western New Yorkers to adopt healthy behaviors by offering opportunities to win prizes. Since the launch of the first Health & Wellness Challenge in October 2014, more than 21,000 individuals have registered for this community-wide initiative.

Plenty of ways to stay fit and active

Independent Health partners with a variety of local organizations to offer engaging community initiatives that promote healthy choices. For example:

• Independent Health joined forces with Shared Mobility, Inc., to bring 200 GPS-enabled bicycles to the streets of Buffalo through the Reddy bikeshare program. Bikes are available for short-term use at more than 50 stations throughout the city. To learn how to register for a discounted annual membership, as well as view prices and a map of bike stations, visit www.reddybikeshare.com.

• As the official health and wellness partner of Outer Harbor Buffalo, Independent Health offers the community a variety of healthy outdoor activities. Get moving on the 2-mile Independent Health Wellness Trail, which begins at Wilkeson Pointe and stretches just past Bell Slip, or participate in free fitness classes at Wilkeson Pointe. Independent Health members also receive a discount when renting kayaks, paddleboards and hydro bikes. Learn more at www.outerharborbuffalo.com.

• In conjunction with YMCA Buffalo Niagara, Independent Health offers Fitness in the Parks, a free weekly exercise program open to the entire community during the summer. Participants can enjoy pilates, yoga and Zumba® taught by YMCA-certified instructors at parks throughout Western New York. To view a schedule and participating parks, visit independenthealth.com/fitpark.

• Independent Health sponsors Slow Roll Buffalo, a free group bicycle ride that meets every Monday night now through October at different venues around Buffalo, takes a unique route throughout the city. All ages, skill levels and bicycles are welcome. A complete schedule is at www.slowrollbuffalo.org.

YOU CAN TAKE PARTA list of all the community programs and events Independent Health offers and supports can be found at independenthealth.com/events.

Get healthy and win prizesBy integrating physical activity and good nutrition into their daily lives, participants in this spring’s Health & Wellness Challenge—which began on April 23 and runs through June 3—have a chance to win a variety of daily prizes, such as autographed Bills memorabilia and fitness trackers, and a weekly $500 cash prize. Plus, one lucky participant will be chosen as the grand-prize winner of $5,000.

How the Challenge worksRegistered participants earn points by meeting three main daily goals: • Get 20 minutes of physical activity.

• Eat five servings of fruits and vegetables.

• Drink eight glasses of water.

Individuals can also complete one “extra points” challenge each day. As an added bonus, participants who refer their friends, family and coworkers can earn 10 extra points for each person who registers.

Sign up today! Go to buffalobills.com/thechallenge to register for the latest Challenge and keep track of your progress. Remember, the more points you earn, the more chances you have to win.

Serving up healthier menu items thanks to the Healthy Options programSince 2004, the Independent Health Foundation’s Healthy Options Buffalo program has been assisting Western New Yorkers in making more informed decisions when dining out as a way to address the high rates of stroke and heart disease prevalent in our region.

The Foundation currently works with more than 250 local restaurants and food trucks in the area to make sure customers have the opportunity to choose heart-healthy food options that are considered lower in fat, saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium.

Fun facts about the Healthy Options program• With the help of the Healthy Options

program, all food trucks participating in Food Truck Tuesdays at Larkin Square are once again required to offer a healthy options menu item this year. The weekly community event takes place every Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. through October.

• For the past 12 years, the Independent Health Foundation has partnered with the Taste of Buffalo to require each restaurant serve a healthy dish. The Taste was the first food festival in the United States with this menu requirement. This year’s event will be held July 7 and 8.

• Healthy options are available at concession stands throughout New Era Field during Buffalo Bills games. Among the healthier items fans can purchase are chicken tacos, turkey jerky, yogurt parfaits and fresh fruit cups.

• You can order healthy option menu items at the Buffalo Zoo, Buffalo RiverWorks and at festivals throughout Western New York, including the Erie County Fair, Taste of Lewiston and Taste of Lockport.

• The Healthy Options program offers three cooking classes a month featuring local restaurant chefs and their healthy dishes.

The Healthy Options program is proudly supported by HealthEdge, Personal Computers Inc. (PCI), Phillips Lytle LLP, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Gelia, Beacon Health Strategies and the Buffalo Bills Foundation.

Visit healthyoptionsbuffalo.com to view a list of all Healthy Options participating restaurants and food trucks, register for Healthy Options Cooking Classes, download healthy recipes and learn tips for making healthier choices when dining out.


foundation news

Celebrate 30 years of family fun at this year’s Kids Run

The Independent Health Foundation invites you and your family to register for this year’s Kids Run, which will be held at 9 a.m., Saturday, June 2, in Delaware Park, near the corner of Colvin Avenue and Amherst Street.

The 30th annual free event will include a mini-dash for children ages 2 to 5 and a 1.8-mile family run/walk for all ages. Trophies will be awarded to the top three boys and girls in a variety of age categories, and each child who participates will receive a medal at the finish line (while supplies last).

Nickel City Reptiles and Exotics and several health and wellness vendors will be on hand to provide fun activities before the event. Immediately following the race, all participants will be able to enjoy the Buffalo Zoo at a discounted price of $2 per person (children ages 23 months and younger are free). Limited free parking will also be available in the zoo parking lot and surrounding streets.

Sign up by May 17! Registration for the Kids Run is limited to the first 5,000 participants and is open through May 17, or until capacity is reached. You can register individually or as a team. Registered participants will each receive an official race number (race packets will be mailed in advance). Competitive runners, ages 6 to 18, will also receive timing chips to get their personal race results. You can even get in the team spirit by ordering matching shirts.

For more information or to register online, visit www.kidsrunbuffalo.com. This year’s Kids Run is sponsored by Wegman’s.


How to prepare for your annual examCars need regular oil changes. Bridges need regular safety inspections. And your body needs routine checkups. Just think of it as maintenance—the price of keeping your body running smoothly.

good to know

People who plan for care at the end of life are more likely to get the medical treatment they want, and their family members experience less stress, anxiety and depression, according to research. Preparing a health care proxy is one way to communicate your choices and help doctors and loved ones decide on your care.

If your loved ones do not know what your wishes are should you become incapacitated, Independent Health encourages you to have the conversation with them and complete a health care proxy. Plan ahead with these four easy steps:1. Think about what is important

to you and how you want to receive care.

2. Select a person (health care agent) to speak for you if you are unable to speak for yourself. You may choose an alternate agent to speak for you if your primary agent is not available. Make sure it’s someone you can trust, such as a family member or close friend.

3. Talk about your health care wishes.

4. Put your health care choices in writing using the Health Care Proxy form for New York State.

Health care proxy forms are available from your doctor and at hospitals. In addition, you can download a form by clicking on “Frequently Used Forms” in the “Tools, Forms & More” section at independenthealth.com. Once your form is signed, keep the original and give copies to your doctors and your health care agent.

Only in this case, that price is very, very low. As in $0. That’s because Independent Health offers a free annual routine checkup to all members.

Considering that these annual visits cost you nothing, and that the CDC says 100,000 fewer Americans would die each year if everyone in the country got recommended preventive care, we hope you take advantage of this important offering.

Follow these steps to make the most of this annual visit:

Before you go to the doctorAs your appointment date approaches, take some time to prepare for your visit. It may help you to bring written notes so you don’t forget anything. Start with these specifics:• Existing medical conditions you have and

any changes since your last visit• Your family health history • A list of the prescription and over-the-

counter medicines you take, including vitamins and supplements. Be sure to include how often you take the medications.

These details will help your doctor better understand your needs.

What to expect at your visitThe annual routine checkup is a chance for you and your doctor to devise a strategy to keep you healthy.

During this visit, your doctor will likely record some measurements and perform some routine tests. He or she may check your blood pressure, vision, weight and height.

Your doctor may also screen you for some common conditions and give you information about preventive care. These recommendations may include medical treatment, lifestyle changes or new prescriptions.

What to do during your visitYou can be proactive during these checkups. Refer to the notes you’ve brought with you and be an active participant in your health care strategy. You may choose to ask your doctor about: • Lifestyle changes you can make• Screenings and immunizations you need • Physical activity recommendations• Smoking-cessation assistance• Weight-loss techniques

Personalize your list of questions and use your $0 annual routine checkup to give your body the maintenance it needs.

Advance planning can ease difficult end-of-life decisions


How to store your meds—And how to throw them away

That bathroom medicine cabinet certainly seems convenient. But it could be the worst possible place for your prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications.

In fact, the warmth and humidity in a steamy bathroom can break down many types of drugs, especially tablets and capsules. Kitchens, too, with their sinks and stoves, can be less-than-ideal storage spots for medication.

What works best for storing prescription and OTC medications, vitamins and supplements is a cool, dry place. This kind of environment can actually help your medicines maintain their quality and last longer. For example, you might choose a locked cabinet or closet in your bedroom. If you have children, placing medications somewhere out of reach is best.

More store-it guidelinesIn addition to finding the right location to store your meds, you can take other steps to help maintain their effectiveness:• Keep all medicines in their original

packaging, along with any additional instructions, so you can find the directions when you need them.

• Get rid of pills that have changed color, consistency or smell, as well as tablets or capsules that stick together or are cracked or chipped. And to play it safe, pitch any medications that have gone beyond their expiration dates.

How to dispose of medicines safelyMany drugs can be discarded in the regular trash if you follow some basic guidelines:

• Take the medications out of their containers and mix them with other undesirable trash, such as kitty litter or old coffee grounds, in a sealable bag.

• Don’t flush the medicine unless the instructions specifically say so.

• When throwing out medication containers, cover up any personal information with a marker to protect your privacy.

However, certain prescription pain medications need special handling so they don’t harm people, pets or the environment. Check with your pharmacist for any special disposal tips or visit www.fda.gov/drugs.

medications

THE PROBLEM: Can’t remember Taking a new medication is just like starting any new habit; it takes a few times of doing it before it sticks. The issue is that medication needs to be taken just as the doctor ordered from day one to make sure it works right.

What you can do: Try out different tools to help you remember when to take your medication. Use an app, send yourself an email reminder or set your cellphone alarm to go off when it’s time to take your medication. Post reminders on your calendar, the fridge or the bathroom mirror. A simple plastic pillbox, filled with the week’s medications, can also help you keep track of doses.

THE PROBLEM: Confusing directions Medication directions are sometimes difficult to understand.

What you can do: If you’re confused about any instruction, you could end up taking your medication the wrong way. Make sure you understand directions before leaving your doctor’s office. Don’t be shy about asking questions if something is unclear. If directions on the medication label are confusing, ask your pharmacist.

3 tips for staying on track with medication You’re not alone if you’re struggling to follow your medication instructions. It’s a problem for many people—even those without health conditions. A study from the New England Journal of Medicine suggests common reasons why we have trouble. You’d be surprised how simple some are to avoid.

THE PROBLEM: Troublesome side effects Many people quit taking their medication because they think it isn’t working or because it’s made them feel worse. Stopping medication suddenly can also sometimes cause unwanted side effects.

What you can do: If that happens to you, don’t quit taking your medication until you talk with your doctor. Explain your symptoms. Your doctor might be able to adjust your treatment plan or suggest a new medication that may work well without side effects.


Young adults can develop heart problems, too. The rise in obesity and diabetes at earlier ages can add to the risk. For 25- to 34-year-olds, heart disease is the fifth leading cause of death in men and women. For 35- to 44-year-olds, heart disease is even deadlier—the third biggest killer in both sexes.

Taking care of your heart not only protects you now but also lays the groundwork for a longer, healthier future.

High blood pressureBlood pressure tends to rise with age. Yet by their 20s and early 30s, about 7% of men and 4% of women already have high blood pressure. Compared with their older counterparts, young adults with high blood pressure are less likely to receive treatment and get their blood pressure under control.

High blood pressure that isn’t controlled may lead to problems down the road, including:• Heart attack• Heart failure• Stroke• Aneurysm (bulge in an artery wall)• Peripheral artery disease (poor blood flow to the legs)

be proactive

When it comes to treating potentially serious conditions, early diagnosis is key. Generally, the earlier you begin treatment for a condition, the greater your chance for a full recovery. That’s why preventive care is the most important step you can take to better manage your health.

Independent Health is proud to offer more than 60 preventive care services and screenings at a $0 copayment when performed by an in-network health care provider*, including:• Annual physicals (see page 7)• Mammograms

Get preventive care services and screenings for free

• Cholesterol screenings• Colonoscopies• Diabetes screening• Women and children well visits• Immunizations, such as the flu shot

These services are even excluded from deductibles—so those enrolled in a deductible plan can take advantage of these services right from the start.

A complete list of preventive services that are covered in full can be accessed at independenthealth.com/knowyourzero. We encourage you to talk with your doctor to make sure you are up-to-date on your preventive care.

High cholesterolHigh cholesterol also raises the risk for heart disease and stroke over time. The chance of having high cholesterol increases with age. But among people in their 20s and early 30s, about 7% of men and 6% of women already have the problem.

What you can doDon’t let your heart get old before its time. Take these heart-smart steps:• Make healthy lifestyle choices. Eat a nutritious diet, be

physically active and don’t smoke.• Choose a primary care doctor. Ask how often you should get

your blood pressure and cholesterol checked. Tell your doctor about any family history of high cholesterol and cardiovascular problems, including heart disease and stroke.

• If you have an ongoing heart condition, work with your health care team to manage it. Take any medicine as directed.

Remember: The younger you are, the longer you want your heart to last.

Think you’re too young for heart problems? Think again!Heart disease becomes more common with age. If you’re in your 20s, 30s or 40s, you might believe it’s something you don’t need to worry about right now. Yet it’s never too early to start paying attention to your heart health.

*A well visit or preventive service can sometimes turn into a “sick visit,” in which you will be responsible for paying an office visit copayment or, if enrolled in a deductible plan, all charges until your deductible level is met. There may be other services performed in conjunction with a $0 preventive care service. These other services will be subject to any applicable liability as described in your contract. Does not include procedures, injections, diagnostic services, laboratory and X-ray services, or any other services not billed as an Evaluations and Management (E& M) code.


diabetes care

Ways we’re helping our members who have diabetes

Managing diabetes takes a lot of work and a lot of careful planning. That’s why Independent Health has partnered with Brook, an innovative Seattle-based technology company, to offer a digital personal assistant for smartphones that our members with diabetes can use to help them better manage their condition.

The Brook Personal Assistant provides personalized support between doctor visits and guidance to get individuals back on track when their blood sugar falls outside the “safe zone.” It also helps monitor one’s meals, medications, daily activities and sleeping patterns. Plus, users can access a public diabetes forum and chat one-on-one with Brook experts for advice and support when they need it most, seven days a week. To download the Brook Personal Assistant for free, visit www.brook.ai.

In addition, if you have been diagnosed with prediabetes or are at risk of developing diabetes, we encourage you to sign up for a National Diabetes Prevention Program hosted by YMCA Buffalo Niagara. Prediabetes means your blood glucose (sugar) is higher than normal, but you don’t yet have diabetes.

New this year, the 12-month prevention program is now free to all Independent Health members. It includes 16 weekly one-hour sessions covering diet, exercise and behavior modification. Participants then meet monthly for continued support and maintenance. For more information, call your nearest YMCA or visit www.ymcabuffaloniagara.org.

Tests you may need if you have diabetesMonitoring your blood glucose (sugar) may be the first thing you think of when it comes to keeping tabs on your diabetes. But although this is an important measure of how you’re managing your condition, diabetes is complicated—it affects major organs throughout your body.

• Retinal eye examination—at least once a year. An ophthalmologist or optometrist checks the health of the eye and looks for damage to blood vessels in the retina. This condition, called diabetic retinopathy, can cause severe vision loss or blindness. If you don’t have any signs of eye damage, your doctor may recommend getting tested every two years.

• Comprehensive foot examination—at least once a year. In addition, your doctor will likely check your feet at every visit. Regular exams and proper foot care help prevent complications, such as foot ulcers, infections and amputations.

In addition, always take your medication as directed by your doctor. If your doctor tells you to use a glucometer to check your blood glucose levels at home, be sure your equipment is clean and working well, and that you have sufficient supplies on hand. Follow your doctor’s recommendations about the frequency of testing, and what to do if your glucose is too high or too low.

Periodically you’ll need these tests to find out how diabetes is affecting your overall health:• Kidney disease test—once a year. Your

doctor will measure protein levels in your urine and do a blood test to see how well your kidneys are filtering your blood.

• Hemoglobin A1c (Hb A1c)—at least twice a year. This test, which requires a blood sample, shows how well glucose was controlled for the previous three months. A test result of less than 7% is the goal for many people with diabetes, but it may be different for you.

• Blood pressure—every doctor’s visit. High blood pressure is common in people with diabetes, and it raises the risk for complications, such as heart disease. If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may recommend that you take readings at home as well.

• Cholesterol lipids—at least once a year. People with diabetes are more likely to have unhealthy cholesterol levels, which may also be a risk factor for heart disease.


We want to make sure you receive quality care

Independent Health’s Quality Management approach is guided by a commitment to our principles, which incorporate a continual improvement methodology.

Quality is a way of thinking, a way of acting and a way of understanding the data generated by our processes. It’s more than graphs and numbers. It’s our ability to understand the messages contained in our data.

Independent Health’s Quality Management Program is a coordinated and collaborative effort that involves management, multiple departments and disciplines, as

well as physicians and other professionals working together as a team, collaborating to improve our organizational performance and the physical and behavioral health outcomes of our members.

If you would like to receive a paper copy of Independent Health’s Quality Management Program, please call our Member Services Department at (716) 631-8701 or 1 (800) 501-3439. You also may view it online at independenthealth.com.

breathe easier

Asthma and allergies: Your spring survival guide

Make a plan.Do you start coughing and wheezing at the first signs of spring? Talk with your primary doctor, allergist or pulmonologist to figure out what’s causing your symptoms. He or she can work with you to create a plan that controls your exposure to whatever is affecting you or may prescribe medicine to help control your symptoms.

Check the air quality.While some air pollution exists all year, certain types can get worse in the summer during hot afternoons and evenings. If the air is polluted, you may find it harder to breathe when you are active outside. Air pollution can also make you more sensitive to other triggers. You may notice asthma symptoms the day after you’ve been breathing polluted air.

Sometimes it’s obvious when the air is polluted, such as on a hazy or smoggy day, but in other cases, it’s not. If you are sensitive to air pollution, you may want to check the air quality before you plan any outside activities. You can usually find reports about the air quality in your area in local newspapers or on TV or radio stations. These reports are also available on the government’s Environmental Protection Agency website, www.airnow.gov.

Protect against pollen.For many allergy sufferers, pollen and mold are the main problems this time of year. It’s important that you try to keep these tiny particles from irritating your asthma.

Be proactive in controlling your asthma by following these tips:• Close your windows at night to keep pollen and mold from

coming in.• Don’t hang clothes or sheets outside to dry.• Shower and change clothes after spending time outside. This

helps remove any pollen or mold on your clothing, hair or skin.• Take your asthma or allergy medicine as directed. If you have

asthma, find out from your doctor in advance what you should do if your symptoms get more severe or if you feel like you are having an asthma attack.

Get help if you need it.The spring and summer months can be difficult for many people with asthma, but there’s no need to suffer. If you are still having trouble with your asthma despite trying to avoid triggers and taking medication, talk with your doctor.

How’s the air?• Go to www.airnow.gov. Enter your ZIP code at the top and

click “Go.” Look at the Current Conditions section. Check for colors that indicate good (green), moderate (yellow) or unhealthy (red), and any special health messages.

Spring is in the air. And for people with asthma and allergies, pollen and pollution can cause your symptoms to flare up. But the change in seasons doesn’t mean you have to stay inside all the time. Take these four steps toward relief.

wise choices


You can protect your skin from the sun and UV rays and decrease your chances of developing skin cancer by wearing protective clothing and sunscreen as follows:• Wear clothing to cover as much skin as

possible. Darker colors protect more than light colors.

• Wearing a hat with at least a 2- to 3-inch brim all around protects areas that are often exposed to intense sun, such as the ears, eyes, forehead, nose and scalp, where skin cancers commonly develop.

• UV-blocking sunglasses are important for protecting the delicate skin around the eyes and decreasing the chances of developing certain eye diseases.

• Sunscreens with broad spectrum protection (against both UVA and UVB rays) with SPF values of 30 or higher are recommended.

• Apply the sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and follow the label directions.

Take these precautionary steps to protect yourself from insect bites that can spread harmful illnesses, such as Zika, West Nile and Lyme disease:• Wear clothing that minimizes exposed

skin, such as long sleeves, pants and closed-toe shoes. You may even consider clothing that has insect repellent in the fabric.

• Check your skin for ticks during outdoor activities and at the end of the day. Prompt removal can help prevent infection. Wash the area with alcohol or soap and water, and watch for signs of rash or fever, which could indicate an infection.

• Apply insect repellent before heading outdoors, according to the label instructions. Products containing DEET, picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus have been found effective in protecting against bug and tick bites.

Don’t let poisonous plants keep you from the outdoors. Instead, protect your skin by:

Protect the skin you’re inWith the weather getting warmer, we are starting to spend as much time as possible outside. While being outdoors is a great way to boost your mood and vitamin D production, it can also lead to skin damage, insect bites and exposure to poisonous plants. If you know how to protect yourself properly, you can still enjoy all the benefits of the great outdoors.

Resources offered to those who have HIV or AIDS

Human immunodeficiency virus, commonly known as HIV, is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. Over time, most people infected with HIV become less able to fight off life-threatening infections and cancers. AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is the last stage of HIV disease.

HIV knows no boundaries. A person of any age, sex, race, ethnic group, religion, economic background or sexual orientation can become infected with this virus if he or she participates in unprotected sex or needle-sharing activities with someone who is already infected. Women with HIV can also pass the virus to their babies during pregnancy, delivery or breast-feeding.

It’s very important to seek medical guidance if you feel you have been exposed to HIV.

The New York State Department of Health has the following resources for people exposed to HIV: • 1 (800) 541-2437 (AIDS General Information)• 1 (800) 872-2777 (HIV Counseling)• 1 (800) 542-2437 (AIDS Drug Assistance Program)• 1 (800) 233-7432 Español (Spanish AIDS Hotline)

In addition, Independent Health’s Case Management Department is available for members with HIV or AIDS and can work with you to help you receive proper treatment. If you would like more information, please call 1 (800) 501-3439 and ask to speak with a member of our case management team. All calls are kept confidential.

• Wearing gloves and long sleeves when gardening

• Learning how to identify common poisonous plants in your area

• Putting on closed-toe shoes with socks while out for a nature walk

Remember, your skin is 90% of your selfie. Make sure to take care of it!


mindfulness

Incorporating mindfulness into your lifeThere has been a lot of buzz lately about practicing mindfulness, but what does that mean exactly? Mindfulness can be translated into the meaning of “awareness.” To be mindful, we need to be present in the moment without judgment or preconceived thoughts. Similar to training our bodies to perform yoga moves, we need to train our attention and minds to be a certain way.

How mindfulness helpsBy practicing mindfulness, we can reduce our tendency to be on autopilot, allowing us to respond and react to situations. This will not eliminate life’s pressures and stressors, but it can help us respond to them in a calmer manner, which is good for our hearts, minds and bodies. Some benefits of practicing mindfulness include:• Reduction in stress, anxiety and depression• Seeing situations more clearly• Less negative thinking and distraction• Ability to be more creative• Achieving balance and resilience at work and at home

How do you practice mindfulness?The more we practice the art of being in the present moment

and allowing our brains to focus on purpose and attentiveness, the more we develop the neuropathways in the brain that are associated with mindfulness. It is important to recognize that, when you’re trying to be mindful, other thoughts may enter your brain. Just acknowledge those thoughts, let them go without judgment and return to your practice.

For example, make the familiar new again. Grab some small objects from your house, such as a toothbrush, fork and remote. Look at these objects with fresh eyes. Identify one new detail about each object that you didn’t see before. As you become more aware of your world, you might become fonder of the things around you.

You may also consider practicing meditation as a way to feel better, reduce your stress and enjoy life a little more. See the below infographic on how to get started!

mother and baby


Should I wait?Having children fairly close together is attractive to many moms for different reasons. But it is important to space your children far enough apart that it does not cause health concerns for you or baby. Rule of thumb? Give your body 18 months to recover before getting pregnant again. Any sooner may increase the risk for preterm birth.

Will I look different?Do not be surprised if you need to break out your maternity clothes a little earlier during your second pregnancy. Typically, women who have already had one child sport their baby bump sooner than they did the first time.

When will I feel the baby?Feeling your baby move inside you is one of the greatest joys of pregnancy. And as a second-time mom, you’ll likely be rewarded with tiny kicks even sooner—in some cases, up to two months earlier. It’s common to feel baby around 18 to 25 weeks, whereas new moms may feel those first flutters closer to 25 weeks. It’s possible for veteran moms to feel the baby as early as 13 weeks.

Will pregnancy be easier?Each pregnancy is different. And it is impossible to predict how your second pregnancy will feel. However, because you have another child to take care of this time around, you may feel more fatigued or have challenges focusing on yourself. To feel your best through pregnancy, find time to exercise, eat healthy foods and get the rest you need.

Will I have the same medical problems?If you had medical issues during your last pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, you may be at higher risk of experiencing them again. But remember, knowledge is power. Before trying for baby number two, talk with your doctor. Discuss ways you can help lower your risk.

Will labor and delivery be quicker?Although babies usually don’t come quickly, you may experience a speedier delivery the second time around. Both early labor pains as well as time spent pushing may be shorter after your first.

6 questions about having baby number 2If you have had a baby, you most likely have the maternity clothes, the birth stories and even the stretch marks to prove it. As an experienced mother, you understand pregnancy and delivery. But are you prepared for infant number two? Below are common questions about pregnancy the second time around.

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Material published in HealthStyles® is not intended to provide personal medical advice. Consult your physician before making changes in your health care regimen. Benefits discussed in HealthStyles® may vary by plan. Developed by StayWell. © 2018

The study, led by Stanford University researchers, used data from a smartphone app that measured daily steps. Researchers analyzed data from more than 717,000 people in 111 countries. Their steps were tracked for about three months, on average. Results were published in the journal Nature.

When more people walk regularly, fewer are obeseResearchers homed in on “activity inequality”—the size of the difference in the number of steps between people in a given country who walked the most and those who walked the least. A bigger gap between these groups was associated with a higher obesity rate.

For example, the U.S. had a large activity gap, indicating that a sizable chunk of the population was very inactive. The obesity rate here is high. In contrast, Sweden had a small activity gap, indicating that most Swedes walked a similar amount. The obesity rate there is much lower.

For more ways to keep yourself healthy, follow us on Facebook or Twitter!

Brisk walking drops disease riskAlong with burning calories, walking briskly reduces your risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes. Take a step in the right direction with these tips:• During the workday, go for a walk on

your break or use a walking station if your employer offers them.

• Walk in a variety of places. Change your route often to keep things fresh. A walk on the 2-mile Independent Health Wellness Trail at the Outer Harbor gives you the chance to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature along the Lake Erie shoreline (see page 6).

• Find a walking buddy. You’re more likely to go when someone is waiting for you.

• Log your walks. Use a paper chart, phone app or wearable fitness tracker. Walking at least 150 minutes a week is an easy way to earn FitWorks points (see page 3).

Visit www.heart.org/walking to find more tips on how to make walking a healthy habit.

Walking regularly linked to lower obesity rates Walking more is a great way to increase your daily physical activity. It doesn’t require special training or equipment, and it’s adaptable to many health needs and fitness levels. Now a new study underscores the link between walking regularly and having a lower risk for obesity.

spring/summer 2018 independenthealth.com asthma …€¦ · if medically necessary, a prescription...

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