Protect Your Eyes This Summer
Whether playing on the beach or pulling weeds in the backyard, everyone should wear eyewear that blocks 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays in conjunction with a brimmed hat. Wrap-around sunglasses are the most effective in protecting the delicate skin around the eyes as well. Click here to learn more.
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Now that all State Health Plan members are enrolled on one of the three PPO options, we want to remind our membership to take advantage of the Blue Extras programs. These Blue Extras programs are available to members at no additional cost and complement your health insurance plan. With these programs you receive discounts on a range of items and services--from vitamins and supplements to massage therapy and laser vision correction. With BluePoints you exercise, get points and earn prizes as you take charge of your health.
To receive your discount, present your State Health Plan ID card at a participating BlueExtras provider. For more information on the Blue Extras program, be sure to visit the State Health Plan Web site at www.shpnc.org, or call Customer Service at 1-888-234-2416.
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Introducing Jack W. Walker, New Executive Administrator
Jack W. Walker, PhD has been appointed executive administrator for the State Health Plan. Walker assumed this leadership role on July 9. He previously served as executive administrator from November 1999 to March 2005, before retiring.
Commenting on his appointment, Dr. Walker stated: "I am honored to return to the State Health Plan. Working closely with the executive committee and staff, I will focus on monitoring the financial condition of the Plan and implementing the necessary adjustments and changes. Throughout this process, we reaffirm our commitment to quality, cost-effective care for our members."
Click here for more information. |
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Training for New HBRs
Registrations are due by July 18, 2008 for the quarterly training for new Health Benefit Representatives (HBRs) and billing contacts. The training will be held at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina on August 5, 2008 through August 7, 2008. The training is recommended for, but not limited to, HBRs and/or billing contacts who have been in their positions for two years or less.
Click below to find more information on the training or for the registration form:
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NC HealthSmart Health Tip:
Stay Up-to-Date on Immunizations
Immunizations are important for members of all ages. Vaccines offer safe and effective protection from infectious diseases. By staying up-to-date on the recommended vaccines, you can protect yourself, your family and your community from serious, life-threatening infections.
Be aware of the vaccines that are recommended for infants, children, adolescents, adults and seniors. Receiving these vaccinations is critical to protecting yourself and our communities from disease.
As always, please be sure to check with your doctor for information on your immunization records! | |
Save Money Using Generics
One of the best ways to save money on your prescription medications is by using generics. Many popular brand name medications have recently been approved by the FDA as generics.
The following chart lists the brand name medications and the annual savings you could realize by using the generic equivalents:
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Brand Name Medication |
Generic Equivalent |
Annual Savings up to: |
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Activella® |
Estradiol/norethindrone |
$480 |
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Paxil CR® |
Paroxetine extended release |
$360 |
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Precose® |
Acarbose |
$360 |
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Prilosec 40mg |
Omeprazole |
$480 |
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Requip® |
Ropinirole |
$360 |
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Risperdal® |
Risperidone |
$360 |
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Sonata® |
Zaleplon |
$480 |
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Wellbutrin XL® 150mg |
Bupropion extended release |
$360 |
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Yasmin® |
Ethinyl estradiol/ Drospirenone |
$360 | As always, check with your provider to see if a generic medication may be right for you. | |
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