Univera Healthcare exceeds statewide quality average in critical areas

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1 WINTER 2002 Univera Healthcare exceeds statewide quality average in critical areas Univera Healthcare performed significantly better than other health plans statewide in critical care areas, according to data collected by the New York State Department of Health. The Department of Health recently released its annual eqarr report on managed care plans in New York. The report enables consumers to evaluate the quality of health care services provided by managed care plans throughout the state. Analyzing health plan data compiled in 1999 and 2000, the report reveals that Univera Healthcare members exceed the statewide average in heart attack treatment, well child visits, childhood immunizations, postpartum care, breast cancer and cervical cancer screenings and cholesterol screenings. Univera earned a rating of 97 for the percentage of eligible plan subscribers receiving beta blocker treatment following a heart attack, significantly better than the statewide average of 87 percent. These state ratings also underscore the value of our ongoing partnerships with health care providers, as we continue to work with physicians and hospitals to create guidelines for ensuring quality health care in our community. Lesleylinda Lannan Univera earned a rating a 91 percent for well child visits in the first 15 months of life, significantly above the state average of 80 percent. Univera achieved a rating of 84 percent for childhood immunizations, well above the statewide average of 72 percent. Univera earned a rating of 85 percent for cervical cancer screenings of women aged 21 to 64 who had one of more Pap tests within the last three years, better than the state average of 80 percent. Univera earned a rating of 82 percent for breast cancer screenings of women aged 52 to 69 who had a mammogram within the last two years, significantly above the state average of 75 percent. Univera earned a rating of 84 percent for postpartum care the percentage of women who had a check-up between 21 and 56 days after having a baby significantly higher than the state average of 73 percent. Univera earned a rating of 85 percent for cholesterol screenings, compared with the statewide average of 78 percent. The state health department s report demonstrates our commitment to providing members access to quality care when they need it, said Lesleylinda Lannan, chief operating officer, Univera Healthcare. These state ratings also underscore the value of our ongoing partnerships with health care providers, as we continue to work with physicians and hospitals to create guidelines for ensuring quality health care in our community. These consumer ratings are the latest recognition of Univera Healthcare s commitment to quality care. The National Committee for Quality Assurance awarded its highest accreditation status, Four Star Excellent, to Univera Healthcare s medical centers, its network of 3,000 affiliated providers and its SeniorChoice program for individuals with Medicare. Does your child have diabetes? INSIDE WINTER 2002 NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID BUFFALO, NY PERMIT NO TIME-SENSITIVE MATERIAL Univera Healthcare Winter Park Club Lane, New York Univera Healthcare will sponsor two diabetic children to attend Camp Sunshine, a residential summer camp operated by the American Diabetes Association. For information on how your child can win one of two free camperships, call Kandis at before March 22. Organ transplant services 3 High stroke rates 5 Antibiotic overuse 8 A healthy start for baby 8

2 In Brief Diabetes supply coverage The following is a clarification of coverage information that appeared in the fall issue of Univera Today: Members must pay a separate copayment, if any, for each 30 day supply of Insulin, oral diabetes medication and/or diabetic supplies. However, if a member buys the diabetic supplies and Insulin at the same time, the member will be charged only one copayment for both items. This policy stems from the New York State mandate for coverage of diabetic medication and supplies, which was implemented in Visit our website Univera Healthcare s web site is growing and changing almost daily. Among the recent additions are Univera Healthcare s medical policies for a number of treatments and procedures. These policies are used as guidelines for Univera s medical necessity coverage decisions. Members are invited to visit the site at Bookmark the site and visit often for the latest information. President and CEO Arthur R. Goshin, M.D. Medical Director L. Ralph Pothel, M.D. Univera Today, news for members of Univera Healthcare, is published four times a year by Univera Healthcare 205 Park Club Lane, NY Today Editor Deborah Williams March 26 Diabetes Alert Day See for list of events Are you moving? Throughout the year we will be sending you important information about your health insurance. If you are planning to move be sure to contact Univera Healthcare Customer Service at or 800/ so your records can be updated. Customer Services representatives can also help you if you have any questions relating to your coverage. 2 Help fight fraud Health care fraud is a serious problem adding as much as $100 billion annually to the nation s total bill for health care. Univera Healthcare is committed to combating fraud and providing quality yet affordable health care for all our members. Univera Healthcare needs your help to combat fraud and abuse. If you suspect provider, employer or member fraud, contact the Univera Healthcare Fraud & Abuse Hotline at this toll-free number: 877/ All reports to the hotline are strictly confidential. FRAUD & ABUSE HOTLINE 877/ Confidentiality policy THE 2001 NEW YORK CONSUMER GUIDE TO HEALTH INSURERS The 2001 edition of the New York Consumer Guide to Health Insurers evaluates the performance of HMOs and other insurers. TO OBTAIN YOUR FREE COPY, WRITE TO: New York State Insurance Department Publications Unit, Agency Building One, 5th Floor Albany, New York Or your request to: Publicat@ins.state.ny.us Guides are also available through the Insurance Department s Website: Univera Healthcare is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of patient, provider and proprietary information. Such information may be released only in accordance with state and federal law and the guidelines established by the Univera confidentiality policy. Confidentiality of patient specific medical information is the responsibility of all Univera employees, officers, agents, representatives and contractors. Employees are required to treat as confidential all member specific information and are aware that violations will result in serious disciplinary action. Univera participates in quality improvement and measurement activities in which member information is used. However, this information is not identifiable as related to specific members. The release of member information and/or records to outside parties by practitioners requires the authorization of the member. Help for smokers to quit New York residents who are trying to stop smoking can call the New York State Smokers Quitline for help. The Smokers Quitline, based at s Roswell Park Cancer Institute, provides information on a variety of stop smoking topics and services including tips to stop smoking, stop smoking aids and local stop smoking programs. The toll-free Quitline is staffed by information specialists who are trained to steer smokers along a non-smoking path. Callers will be sent a stop-smoking guide developed by Roswell Park along with information about smoking cessation programs in their area. The program is funded by the New York State Department of Health. Start a new smoke-free life by calling toll-free 1/888/ Please send a copy of the 2001 New York Consumer Guide to Health Insurers to: NAME: ADDRESS: CITY/STATE: ZIP CODE:

3 Univera Healthcare provides organ transplant services and coordination The recently released movie, John Q, starring Denzel Washington, raises the issue of organ donations and transplants. Here at Univera Healthcare, plan services include coverage for medically necessary transplants of an organ or body tissue for the treatment of disease. All transplants must be performed at hospitals specifically approved and designated by the plan to perform these procedures. Univera uses Lifetrac Centers of Excellence for members needing transplants. These Centers of Excellence are considered the nation s top transplant centers and are each recognized for their expertise with specific transplant procedures. Nearby Centers of Excellence approved for specific transplants include Cleveland Clinic and Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. Univera members are covered for medical and hospital services and related organ acquisition costs for approved organ transplants. Expenses incurred by a non-member donor for an authorized transplant to a member will be covered unless the non-member has other insurance coverage for such expenses. The following are not covered: Donor screening tests and donor search expenses, except those performed for the actual donor; Implants of artificial organs; and Travel and accommodations. How does the transplant process work? A member s physician contacts Univera s Care Support Case Management Department to request evaluation for a transplant. If the patient is approved for a transplant, the Univera R.N. Care Support Transplant Coordinator and a social worker will check eligibility and benefits and then contact the patient. The Univera R.N. Transplant Coordinator and the facility transplant coordinator will work in concert with the Univera Medical Director and the patient s primary care physician and specialist to ensure that the patient is linked to the appropriate Center of Excellence. During the inpatient stay for the transplant, a Univera R.N. Care Support Nurse will communicate with the treatment team at the Center of Excellence to plan discharge, organize referrals for postacute care, and arrange prescriptions or other necessary medical services, such as home care. Since a transplant patient is at risk for rejection, Univera Healthcare will continue to provide Case Management services for at least one year post-transplant. The Univera Care Support Transplant Coordination team will monitor the patient s outcome using Member and Provider Satisfaction Surveys, Quality of Life Surveys, and data from the transplant facility. The goal is for Univera members to receive quality care, before, during and after a transplant. 3 Lannan named executive vice president and chief operating officer Univera Healthcare has named Lesleylinda Lannan executive vice president and chief operating officer, responsible for all Western New York operations. Lannan had previously been Univera s senior vice president for marketing. Lannan has a Bachelors of Science degree from SUNY College at Cortland and has a Masters of Public Administration degree from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University. No authorization needed for behavioral health Beginning Jan. 1 it is now easier for members to access needed behavioral health or chemical dependency treatment. Members no longer need to contact the Behavioral Health Department for an authorization. You also do not need a referral from your primary care physician. Members seeking treatment should call any participating behavioral health or chemical dependency provider for covered outpatient services. If you have any questions about whether the provider is participating with Univera contact Customer Service. Univera Healthcare believes it is important to involve your primary care physician in your care. Your behavioral health provider may ask you to sign a consent form giving permission to share your records with your primary care physician. We encourage you to sign this consent form. An open dialogue with your primary care physician can help improve your health care. It is also important that you tell your primary care physician about any medications your behavioral health provider has prescribed. Women s Health & Cancer Rights Act The Woman s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 includes protection for patients who have had breast cancer surgery. Univera Healthcare covers all the services that were included in the law. As a member of Univera Healthcare, your coverage includes the following: Patients who, as a treatment for breast cancer, must undergo removal of lymph nodes (lymph node dissection), a breast lump (lumpectomy) or a breast (mastectomy) may remain in the hospital for as long as the patient and the physician feel it is necessary. Patients who have undergone a mastectomy have coverage for reconstruction of the affected breast or breasts. They also are covered for surgery and reconstruction of an unaffected breast for the purpose of obtaining symmetry. Patients have coverage for the treatment of physical complications at all stages of a mastectomy, including disorders of the lymph nodes (lymphadema). Patients who have had a breast or breasts removed have coverage for breast prostheses. These benefits are subject to the same copayments, deductibles and coinsurances as any other benefit provided under your health plan.

4 Mark your calendar Last year s first ever Komen Race for the Cure in was the city s largest inaugural 5K race with more than 2,000 participants. Race officials hope to double the number for this year s Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Race for the Cure on May 18 at the Delaware Park Rose Garden. Seventy-five percent of the net proceeds from the Komen Race for the Cure will be distributed locally to fund breast health education projects and research. The remaining twentyfive percent helps fund the Komen Foundation Research Program. Runners, volunteers and sponsors are needed for the WNY Komen Race for the Cure. Call 716/ No office visit co-pay for kids Beginning January 1, 2002 there are no co-pays for physician office visits for children and teens age 18 and under for many members. However, this new policy does not apply for all member contracts. If you have any questions contact your company Human Resources Dept. or Univera Healthcare Customer Service at 716/ or 800/ Co-pays will apply to ambulatory surgery facilities, outpatient alcoholism and substance abuse services and outpatient mental health services. Inpatient hospital and emergency room co-pays will apply as dictated by your subscriber agreement. Be a hero, sign your donor card today All of us have a unique opportunity to save lives by signing an organ donor card and sharing your decision with your family. Every 15 minutes a new patient with end stage organ failure is placed on a waiting list for a life-saving organ. Locally, in Western New York more than 300 patients are currently waiting for organs. More than 60,000 Americans currently await organ transplants, almost 10% from New York State. The waiting list has more than tripled since Eight to ten people in the U.S. will die today because of the organ shortage. All New York State driver s licenses have the organ donor option on the back of the license. A separate donor card is available by calling 85- DONOR ( ) or by visiting Upstate New York Transplant Services website at After signing the card be sure that family members know of your wishes since permission from family or next of kin must be obtained before any donation can take place. 4 2 Smart 2 Start leader wins award Olivia Belter, Univera Healthcare s 2 Smart 2 Start project coordinator was named Youth Advocate of the Year by the American Cancer Society. The award was given in recognition of Belter s commitment to raising awareness and changing public norms about tobacco use. She was cited for her work with the 2 Smart 2 Start program and her strong reputation for constantly going above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to keep kids off cigarettes. As a volunteer driven organization, our local anti-tobacco heroes serve a vital role in helping the American Cancer Society meet our mission to eliminate cancer, said Gretchen Leffler, American Cancer Society regional executive. After all, tobacco use accounts for at least 30 percent of all cancer deaths. The sad truth is that many of these deaths could have been prevented. More students sign the pledge 2 Smart 2 Start, Univera Healthcare s program designed to reduce smoking prevalence among children, is attracting new students daily. Since the program was launched in 1999, nearly 63,000 students have signed the 2 Smart 2 Start pledge to avoid tobacco products. Students who sign the pledge receive a discount card good for special offers at popular merchants. Other elements of the program include: A professional theater program to convey messages about self esteem, peer pressure and making healthy choices. A peer counseling initiative in which high school students deliver tobacco avoidance messages to elementary school students. Tar Wars, a national project sponsored by the American Academy of Family Physicians, implemented with the cooperation of local physicians and health professionals. For more information on 2 Smart 2 Start programs call 716/ and leave a message or visit the web site at 2Smart2Start.org. Free video available for breast cancer patients Univera Healthcare is making a new video entitled Initial Discovery and Diagnosis of Breast Cancer available for free viewing to breast cancer patients and their families. The tape is accompanied by a resource guide that contains related phone numbers, Internet sites and other helpful information. The video is the first in a series entitled Woman to Woman. Patients are able to view the video in the privacy of their own home as many times as they feel necessary. Its contents include frank discussions with breast cancer survivors about the emotions and concerns that accompanied the initial diagnosis, as well as advice and support for other newly diagnosed patients. To arrange to borrow the video contact Univera Healthcare at 716/

5 Stroke rates highest in Western New York Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States, killing nearly 160,000 Americans every year. Each year, approximately 730,000 people have a stroke. Every 45 seconds in the U.S. someone has a stroke and over a lifetime, four out of five U.S. families are affected by stroke. Stroke is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. Four million Americans are living with the effects of a stroke. Of these people, 90% have a stroke related deficit. And this group is at increased risk for another stroke. Most devastating for area residents Western New Yorkers suffer terribly high rates of stroke and are more likely to experience and die from stroke than in other parts of the state and country. These findings are part of a recently released study by the -based Research Center for Stroke & Heart Disease. Erie County experiences nearly five times as many deaths caused by stroke as Putnam County (in the Hudson Valley area) begging the question: what is to blame for this marked difference? the study asks. Stroke accounts for hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations nationally each year, In New York State in 1999 it was responsible for upwards of 56,000 hospital discharges with nearly 6,500 in Western New York. Following a stroke most patients will never regain full pre-hospitalization capabilities such as working, mobility and other activities of daily living. For each decade after 55, one s stroke risk doubles. A person aged 65 or older has seven times the risk of dying from stroke than the general population. Among women stroke kills two times as many American women every year as breast cancer. Women are more likely to die from stroke than their male counterparts. Among African Americans the incidence rate for stroke is almost double that for Caucasians. A 1996 National Stroke Association/Gallup Survey on stroke awareness found the following possible explanations for why stroke rates are already high and on the rise: Only 19% are aware that measures can be taken to reduce the risk for stroke. Only 40% would call 911 if they were having a stroke. Two-thirds of these respondents were unaware of the short window of opportunity during which a stroke victim must seek treatment to minimize disability. Largely, older Americans, those at highest risk, could not correctly identify stroke symptoms: 91% did not know that sudden blurred or decreased vision can signal a stroke; 85% did not know that loss of balance or coordination can be a sign of a stroke, and; 68% did not know that difficulty speaking or understanding speech is a stroke symptom. Risk factors for stroke and heart disease in WNY Why do Western New Yorkers have the dubious distinction of being number one in the rates of stroke and heart disease in the entire nation? According to a recently released study by the Research Center for Stroke & Heart Disease one explanation for these high rates is that Western New Yorkers are more likely to be overweight, to smoke and to have diabetes than people in other areas of the state and country. In fact, Western New Yorkers have grossly high rates of overweight and obesity, doubling what is typically seen in other parts of the state and U.S., the report states. Obesity is a major contributing factor in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease, diabetes and other health conditions. Some studies show that nearly one third of all Western New Yorkers In fact, Western New Yorkers have grossly high rates of overweight and obesity, doubling what is typically seen in other parts of the state and U.S., the report states. Obesity is a major contributing factor in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease, diabetes and other health conditions. 5 smoke, a major risk factor in both strokes and heart disease. In fact smoking doubles the risk of both stroke and heart disease. Surprisingly, fewer than 15% of smokers who have already suffered a stroke quit smoking. When a person stops smoking, his or her risk of stroke decreases within two years to nearly that of someone who has never smoked, according to the study. Diabetes in Western New York is higher than it is elsewhere in the state and country. People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to have heart disease or stroke than those without the condition. Physical inactivity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure are the other main risk factors for stroke and heart disease. WNYMEM 2/02

6 Univera Healthcare Member Rights and Responsibilities A a member of Univera Healthcare you have certain rights as well as corresponding responsibilities. We re committed to providing you with services that respect your rights. Your attention to the responsibilities of Univera Healthcare membership will greatly enhance the quality of the care and service you receive. YOUR RIGHTS You have the right to have impartial access to treatment. You have the right to all medically indicated treatment that is a covered benefit, regardless of race, color, ethnicity, age, substance abuse, genetic information, source of payment, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, cultural background, mental or physical disability, or financial status. You have the right to be treated with consideration, respect and dignity, including privacy in treatment. You or your representative have the right to participate with your providers in the decision-making regarding your health care, including treatment at and discharge from a healthcare facility. You have the right to create an Advance Directive and appoint a Health Care Proxy to make decisions for you if you become unable to make decisions for yourself. You have the right to refuse treatment and to be informed of the expected results of that decision. You have the right to a candid discussion of appropriate or Medically Necessary treatment options for your condition regardless of cost or benefit coverage under your contract. You have the right to receive information you may need in order to give informed consent for any procedure or treatment. The information shall include the procedure or treatment and why it s needed; the anticipated outcome; the potential risks; and alternative methods of care or treatment. You also have the right to a second opinion with a Univera Healthcare participating provider. You have a right to receive a copy of your medical records. Univera Healthcare will not release your medical information without your approval, except for use by Univera Healthcare, hospitals, our doctors, and to physicians who are fulfilling the contract between Univera Healthcare and the patient. Your medical information may also be released to comply with government requirements, and to conduct legitimate research or education. You have the right to refuse to participate in experimental research. You have the right to receive medical care in a safe, secure, clean and accessible environment. If you feel conditions do not meet these criteria, you have the right to report it. You have the right to receive information about Univera Healthcare, our providers, our services and Member s Rights and Responsibilities. You have the right to be informed about services provided by Univera Healthcare, including names of participating providers; procedures for obtaining authorization for specialty care; and information on where, when and how you can receive services, including off-hour and emergency care. You have the right to receive information, written in a language which is readable and easy to understand explaining your benefits, how to obtain care within Univera Healthcare, any restrictions or exclusions to your benefits and any charges for which you are responsible. You have the right to voice complaints about Univera Healthcare or the care provided to you and to appeal coverage decisions made by Univera Healthcare and to have those concerns/appeals resolved in a thorough, appropriate and timely manner. You have the right to express concerns about Univera Healthcare or the care provided to the New York State Department of Health or the New York State Insurance Department. If you are a Medicare Beneficiary, you also have the right to express concerns about Univera Healthcare or the care provided to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services, formerly HCFA. You have the right to select a Univera Healthcare Primary Care Physician. You have the right to be notified when you are affected by the termination of a physician and assistance in the selection of a new physician. You have the right to offer comments and suggestions concerning Univera Healthcare s services, providers and Member s Rights and Responsibilities. You have the right to receive information about applicable co-payments and co-insurance for all services and an itemized copy of your account statement upon request. You have the right to access emergency healthcare services consistent with the determination of the need for such services as a prudent lay person. YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES You have the responsibility for selecting a primary care physician and for being an active partner in all efforts to promote, maintain and restore your health. You have the responsibility for listening with an open mind to providers and staff, asking questions making certain you understand the explanations you are given and accepting responsibility for the outcome of your decisions about diagnosis, recommended treatment plans, and possible outcomes. You have the responsibility for helping your physician and other providers maintain accurate and current medical records and by being open and honest when providing information about your symptoms and health history. You have the responsibility for following all reasonable recommendations for care including proper use of prescribed medications, making and keeping recommended appointments. You have the responsibility for calling or returning to your provider for further care if a medical problem fails to improve. You have the responsibility to be courteous and respectful to providers, staff and fellow patients, showing the same consideration you would like to receive. You have the responsibility to keep schedule appointments and give adequate notice of cancellation. You have the responsibility to read and understand your subscriber agreement or group certificate. You have the responsibility of becoming fully informed about Univera Healthcare s policies and procedures so that you can make best use of the services that are available. You are responsible for fulfilling your financial obligations for all or part of the costs outlined in your Subscriber Agreement or Group Certificate. You have the responsibility to help Univera Healthcare maintain and improve the quality of care and service you receive by sharing your concerns and comments with Univera Healthcare. 6

7 Health Education classes available to our members Health education classes offered to Univera Healthcare members at a variety of locations are a valuable tool for patients who are pregnant, or have asthma, diabetes, or weight management/nutritional issues. The following is a list of various locations throughout Western New York and available classes. Some classes may carry a fee. Univera Healthcare (Health Education Office) Amherst University Medical Center Diabetes Weight Control Cholesterol Empire Drive Medical Center West Seneca Prenatal Weight Control Hamburg Medical Center Diabetes Weight Control Cholesterol Mosher Medical Center Diabetes Prenatal West Seneca Medical Center Diabetes Weight Control Cholesterol Catholic Health System Health Connection Kenmore Mercy Hospital Kenmore Asthma Diabetes Weight Control Mercy Hospital Diabetes Prenatal Weight Control St. Joseph s Hospital Cheektowaga Diabetes Weight Control Sisters of Charity Hospital Diabetes Prenatal Weight Control Kaleida Health System General Hospital Diabetes Children s Hospital of Prenatal DeGraff Memorial Hospital North Tonawanda Diabetes Millard Fillmore Hospital Diabetes Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital Williamsville Diabetes Prenatal Additional Programs American Cancer Society Various sites (800) ext. 107 American Lung Association Various sites Asthma Bertrand Chaffee Hospital Springville Diabetes Prenatal Weight Control Cardiology & Pulmonary Assoc. Williamsville EAP Consultant Services Niagara Falls Family Wellness Center Brockport Highgate Medical Group Williamsville Cindy Gross, R.N Inter-Community Memorial Hospital Newfane , ext. 501 Prenatal Linda Benedict, CRN Cuba, NY Lockport Memorial Hospital Lockport Diabetes ext ext Medina Memorial Hospital Medina Asthma Diabetes Mount St. Mary s Hospital Lewiston Diabetes Prenatal Weight Control Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center Prenatal Olean General Hospital Olean Prenatal Weight Control Roswell Park Cancer Institute Various sites Tri-County Memorial Hospital Gowanda ext Diabetes Weight Control United Medical Center Batavia Diabetes Weight Control VA Western NY Healthcare System Diabetes WCA Hospital Jamestown Diabetes Prenatal Westfield Memorial Hospital Westfield Prenatal Diabetes Wyoming County Community Hospital Warsaw Diabetes ext Prenatal Weight Control ext Nutrition counseling Would you to talk with a nutritionist about healthy eating for you and your family? Have you ever been told to follow a special diet for a medical condition? Nutrition counseling is available for a wide variety of topics. For more information call Behavioral Health The Surgeon General s Report on Mental Health estimates that one in five adults and children or more than 40 million Americans will experience some type of treatable mental health disorder in their lifetime. These include: Depression Anxiety Alcohol and drug abuse Stress reactions Family problems Parenting problems Attention Deficit Disorder & Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Univera Healthcare Behavioral Health has been providing short term counseling services for more than 16 years. Our team of therapists comprised of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and certified addiction counselors are available to meet your counseling needs. Programs include individual, couples, family and group psychotherapy. Groups are focused on: Adolescent parenting Sexual abuse Overcoming anxiety & phobias Managing attention deficit & hyperactivity Parenting challenging children Chemical abuse & dependency issues Acupuncture detoxification You do not require a physician referral to attend these programs. Members should call Behavioral Health at 800/ or to speak with an intake counselor. Co-pays apply.

8 Antibiotic overuse identified as widespread public health problem The number of bacterial strains becoming resistant to treatment with antibiotics is growing at an alarming rate. Area physicians and three area health insurance providers including Univera Healthcare have come together to educate the public and medical community about the appropriate use of antibiotics and the dangers of overuse. Antibiotics are inappropriately prescribed for more than 60% of diagnosed colds, according to a report in the Journal of Family Practice. This misuse costs millions of dollars annually. Antibiotics effectively treat bacterial infections such as some sinus and ear infections and strep throat. Antibiotics will not help viral infections such as flu, coughs and colds. However, patients with the flu or other non-bacterial infections often ask their doctors for antibiotics mistakenly believing they will alleviate their symptoms. Taking an antibiotic for a cold or the flu will not help you or make you feel better. In fact, using antibiotics when you have a cold or the flu may come back to haunt you. The overuse of antibiotics is making them less effective. Area physicians treating GM members have new tool Physicians who treat General Motors health plan enrollees in the Western New York area have access to a new tool to help them improve the quality of patient care, reduce medical errors and reduce health care costs. It s a Palm Pilot that has been programmed with Medscape s Palmbased handheld prescription writing system. The Palm Pilots are provided free to eligible physicians through a unique collaborative initiative of General Motors and Medscape. The program has been endorsed by the Western New York Electronic Prescribing Initiative of which Univera Healthcare is a participant. This initiative is about improving the quality of care, starting at the point of care for GM plan members, said Tom Weatherup, GM director of E-Health Implementation. Providing doctors with information at their fingertips helps our employees and retirees receive the most appropriate care, whether at the hospital bedside or in the doctor s office. This program aligns nicely with our ongoing initiatives focused on driving quality improvements and efficiency in the health care system. GM and Medscape successfully piloted the program in Shreveport, LA and Oklahoma City, OK. Representatives of the organizations plan to spend the next six months in Western New York offering the program to area physicians. Give your baby a healthy start Are you thinking of having a baby in 2002? There are some important steps to take before conceiving to help ensure a healthy baby. Get a checkup. If you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking any medications, ask your doctor how they might affect your pregnancy. Your doctor will test you to determine if you have had rubella and vaccinate you if necessary. Rubella in pregnant women can cause birth defects. Take your vitamins. At your doctor s direction, begin taking folic acid supplements. Studies have shown that folic acid will decrease the risk of spinal defects significantly. Give up your vices. Smoking and drinking alcohol can increase the risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, birth defects and other problems. Get in shape. Begin a regular program of physical exercise. The better shape you are in, the better your body will weather the natural stress and fatigue of pregnancy. However, certain activities such as scuba diving should be avoided during pregnancy. If in doubt about an exercise or activity discuss it with your doctor. Maintain a healthy body weight. If you are underweight or overweight you run an increased risk of problems during your pregnancy as well as an increased risk of a premature birth. Discuss any medications you may be taking. These include seemingly The National Committee for Quality Assurance awarded its highest accreditation status, Four Star Excellent, to Univera Healthcare s medical centers, its network of 3,000 affiliated providers and its SeniorChoice program for individuals with Medicare. harmless over-the-counter medications. Eat healthfully. This includes five servings of fruits and vegetables a day as well as other low-fat, low-salt choices. If you think you may be pregnant, notify your doctor immediately so you can begin regular prenatal visits. Prenatal visits should include a first visit at 6-8 weeks, then a visit every four weeks through the 28th week. From the 28-36th weeks visits should be every two weeks and weekly thereafter. After the baby s birth be sure to schedule a postpartum visit 3-8 weeks after delivery depending on your doctor s advice. Of course, highrisk pregnancies may require more frequent doctor visits. 8