WELLNESS 2021: "Take Action" ESHCA Wellness Newsletter September 2021 The shareable link (printable) for this issue: https://conta.cc/2WE3zU6 For complete member services visit us at: www.eshca.org

Dental Benefits

1) Know the Basics! The ESHCA Health Plan covers Routine Oral Examinations (cleanings) twice per calendar year for each Participant. Note: There is no "network" for dentists, any licensed dentist can be used. Review Dental Service Details as outlined in the Summary Plan Description Questions? Contact: Donna (ESHCA office) or MVP 800-480-5640

2) Communicate with your doctors, ask questions! A few years back, I was told I needed a crown to replace an old filling: Dentist: "We will need to schedule that appointment for sometime over the next couple of weeks." Me: "How much is that going to cost, hundreds of dollars or thousands of dollars?" Dentist: "Good question, yes, somewhere in there." Me: "Can you run that through my insurance company and tell me exactly how much that is going to cost before I schedule the appointment?" Dentist: "Yes, we can do that." Outcome: The numbers were run, I was comfortable with the cost and treatment, so I scheduled it. Obviously, I am not a dentist and do not want to dictate my treatment but I do not want to be surprised by an "outrageous" medical bill. If it is more than I could afford, more viable options (payment plans, alternate treatments, etc.) could be discussed.

Why should I use my Routine Oral Examinations? Poor Oral Hygiene correlates to: Alzheimer's Disease Heart Disease Diabetes Inflammation Fetal Health Damaged gums and teeth provide a direct path for harmful bacteria to enter into the blood stream. Maintain good oral hygiene (ADA): 1) Brush 2 times per day for 2 minutes using a flouride toothpaste 2) Floss daily clean between your teeth 3) Limit sugary drinks and snacks Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth 4) See your dentist regularly checkup/cleanings 2 times per year

Behavioral Health

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month (NAMI) 2nd leading cause of death in people 10-34 years old 10th leading cause overall 78% of deaths are men however, more women then men attempt suicide 35% increase since 1999 46% diagnosed with mental health issue 90% of cases demonstrate mental health symptoms

This is a tough topic that has touched many of our lives. Be aware of how you can get help for yourself or a loved one: 1) Should I seek treatment for myself or a love one? Warning Signs and Risk Factors 2) What does the ESHCA Health Benefit offer you and your family to treat behavioral health issues? Mental Health and Substance Abuse (SPD) MyVisitNow not just an Urgent Care service, they also offer virtual behavioral health counseling in the privacy and comfort of your home Emergency numbers (free services): National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-TALK (8255) Text "NAMI" to 741741

Is Zucchini the Key to Low Blood Sugar?

Are you being "overrun" with zucchini? Seems like everyone with a garden is either trying to give it away or find some creative use for it. The good news, zucchini is high in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants making it an ideal choice to fight chronic diseases including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and obesity. Type 2 diabetes is a harmful and "expensive" disease, focusing on good nutrition is a positive step in prevention and maintenance! 34-Million Americans have Diabetes 88-Million Americans have Prediabetes 90% of them are unaware Zucchini can be eaten raw, steamed, grilled or baked. As this recipe demonstrates , we are only limited by our imaginations as to how zucchini can be used. Zucchini Meatballs are low in calories, fat, and sodium providing a delicious alternative to one of our favorite foods. George, the ESHCA Apprentice Training Coordinator, provided me with the following recipe and gave it "two thumbs up"!

Zucchini Meatballs Recipe

$25 September Incentive Challenge Click on the link and take the assessment (ADA) Submit your answers and review the feedback page. Email, mail or fax me a picture or screen shot of the feedback page and I will send your $25 incentive. Reminder: each member of the household is encouraged to participate but only one (1) incentive card can be sent to each member-household with the exception that more than one member-employee lives in the household. Each household is eligible to complete 6 newsletter challenges per year.

Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment

Only a blood test (glucose and A1C) can determine if you have prediabetes or diabetes. A glucose test is a standard measure of the annual physical bloodwork, results determine if your A1C needs to be evaluated. "Know Your Numbers": Blood Glucose, Cholesterol, Blood Pressure and Body Weight are indicators of current and future health. Complete your Annual Physical Incentive ($200) 

Financial Wellness

Review the quarterly performance for the retirement plan! Note: this information is posted on the ESHCA website and will be updated in early October! Investment Performance through June 30, 2021 Schedule your annual retirement review with QCI, it is free and there is a $25 incentive to participate! Contact QCI 

Are you collecting your "Wellness Bucks"? ESHCA encourages you to live a healthy lifestyle while being informed on your health and retirement benefits Click the link to review Wellness Incentives for 2021 Incentives encourage members to "Take Action": use preventative services (annual physical) engage in healthy lifestyle activities: exercise and nutrition stay connected through email and text notifications (online newsletter) Contact Patrick if you have questions or need assistance!