Communication Update from Magellan, SMU’s EAP Program Manager

Posted on May 21, 2013 by Mary Stall

magellan

May 21, 2013

Follow up – Moore, OK tornado disaster
As Magellan has learned more information and details about the tornado that hit Moore, OK additional tools, resources, and material have been made available to their clients.

Magellan issued a press release earlier today – stating their commitment to Moore, OK and the surrounding communities by opening up a 24 hour hotline to help people cope and deal with this tragedy (see the SMU blog post).  This hotline is available to members and non-members. The toll-free telephone number is 1-800- 327-7451.  Magellan will also be posting the 24 hour hotline number on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Magellan has posted a toolkit of materials on their corporate website.  The tool kit is available at: http://www.magellanhealth.com/our-company/magellan-cares/moore-tornado-.aspx

Materials and tip sheets will also be posted on the Magellan member website by Thursday May 23rd.  Material will be posted on the “In the news” section of the member website at www.magellanhealth.com\member.

Read more about the SMU Employee Assistance Program including the benefits available to SMU employees and Magellan contact information.

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SMU’s EAP Program Announces Resources for Employees Coping with Natural Disasters

Posted on May 21, 2013 by Mary Stall

magellanMAGELLAN HEALTH SERVICES ESTABLISHES NATIONAL TOLL-FREE HOTLINE FOLLOWING MOORE, OKLAHOMA TORNADO


Counselors available to help individuals cope with natural disaster-

- Natural disaster toolkit available on website –

 AVON, Conn. – May 21, 2013 – Magellan Health Services Inc. (NASDAQ: MGLN) today announced that in response to the Moore, Oklahoma tornado, it has set up a 24-hour toll-free hotline to help individuals process feelings of grief, sorrow and depression following the storm, regardless of whether or not they are Magellan customers.  The site can also provide information with regard to shelters and available sources for food and water.  Additionally, the company has posted a toolkit of materials on its website.  These materials are available at http://www.magellanhealth.com/our-company/magellan-cares/moore-tornado-.aspx. The hotline is staffed by behavioral health professionals to offer counseling services to help people deal with the feelings of fear, sadness, anger and hopelessness that can occur following natural disasters.  The number is 1-800-327-7451.

“The massive tornado that struck Moore, Oklahoma was historic in its scale and devastation, and it’s important at this time of need that all of us step up to help those impacted,” said Barry M. Smith, Magellan’s CEO.  “As a national leader in behavioral health, we want to make certain that people have access to information that can help and professionals who can counsel them.  We have trained professionals standing by to counsel anyone who was directly, or indirectly, affected by this natural disaster and needs help coping.”

About Magellan Health Services

Headquartered in Avon, Conn., Magellan Health Services Inc. is a leading specialty health care management organization with expertise in managing behavioral health, radiology and specialty pharmaceuticals, as well as pharmacy benefits programs.  Magellan delivers innovative solutions to improve quality outcomes and optimize the cost of care for those we serve.  As of March 31, 2013, Magellan’s customers include health plans, employers and government agencies, serving approximately 33.9 million members in our behavioral health business, 17.1 million members in our radiology benefits management segment, and 7.4 million members in our medical pharmacy management product.  In addition, the pharmacy solutions segment served 41 health plans and employers, 24 states and the District of Columbia, and several pharmaceutical manufacturers.  For more information, visit www.MagellanHealth.com.

 

 

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Welcome to Our New Employees Who Recently Attended SMU & YOU

Posted on May 15, 2013 by Mary Stall

The following employees attended SMU & YOU, an element of the Total Orientation Process at SMU.  During this workshop, they learned about the culture, mission, and values of the University community.

smuu

Back Row Left to Right: Carlos Barocio Leon, Jolene de Verges, Denise Gauthier, Geoffrey Brown, Greg Needel, Alex Aldaz

Front Row: Lela Abraham, Emily Grund, Alexandra Luzarraga, Nicole Brewster, Iris Briscoe

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Blue365® Program Exclusively For SMU Medical Plan Participants

Posted on May 3, 2013 by Holly Carter

blue365-family with bikeWith the Blue365® program, members can save money on health care products and services such as fitness gear, gym memberships, family activities, healthy eating options and much more — all offered by top national and local retailers.

Using the program is easy, too. There aren’t any claims to file, and no referrals or pre-authorizations to worry about.

Once members register on the Blue365 website, they will have access to all HCSC discounts. In addition, they will receive weekly “featured deals” that are available for only a short time and offer more discounts from leading health companies and online retailers. 
                 Texas:  Blue365deals.com/BCBSTX

For more information, take a look at the Blue 365 Member Flyer at the bottom of the page on the SMU Medical Plan Website.

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Got Drugs? National Take-Back Day on April 27, 2013

Posted on April 22, 2013 by Holly Carter

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 1 in 9 teens have abused prescription drugs. Often these medications are found in the home. Parents and adults can do their part to rid their homes of dangerous prescription drugs by cleaning out their medicine cabinets and disposing of them during the Drug Enforcement Agency’s National Take-Back Day.

The Highland Park Department of Public Safety and University Park Police Department are both participating in the DEA’s National Take-Back Day on Saturday, April 27, 2013 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in addition to various other locations across the metroplex. You can bring unused prescription drugs to these designated drop-off locations or you may find the nearest location by clicking here.

You may dispose of pill-form medication either in its original container or by removing the medication from its container and dropping it directly into the disposal box.  Liquid prescriptions, such as cough syrup, should remain in its original bottle.  Please make sure the lid is tightly sealed to avoid spillage. An officer will be on hand to keep the DEA container secured. Participants will remain anonymous and no questions will be asked.drug2drug3

National Drug Take-Back Day

Saturday, April 27, 2013

10:00AM – 2:00PM

           Highland Park DPS
               4700 Drexel Dr
 
  University Park Police Dept 
      3800 University Blvd 
 
 

The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposal, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of these medications. This is a great opportunity to safely dispose of unwanted or unused prescription drugs. National Take-Back Day is open to everyone.

For additional information, please contact (214) 521-5000.

Sources: Drug Enforcement Administration and My Southlake News

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How Soon is Now? Talking to Kids about Alcohol!

Posted on April 18, 2013 by Holly Carter

The road to adulthood can be paved with more than one uncomfortable conversation. But don’t wait too long to bring up the subject of alcohol with your children. Even some children in elementary school are making decisions about whether to take a drink.

Children see people drinking and misusing alcohol everywhere; they are bombarded with ads on television and online. Plus, their friends might be giving them a lot of pressure to fit in and drink. Children might even see adults in their family abusing alcohol. And the pressure to drink starts earlier than you might think.

More than 7 percent of eighth graders, 16 percent of sophomores and 23 percent of seniors report recent binge drinking, which is defined as five or more drinks on the same occasion.alcohol talk

The good news is that it’s never too early or too late to influence your children. In fact, research has shown that kids who have conversations with their parents and learn a lot about the dangers of alcohol and drug use are 50 percent less likely to use alcohol and drugs than those who don’t have such conversations.

Research shows that kids of all ages are less apt to drink if they:
·     Enjoy a good relationship with their parents
·     Stay active in extracurricular activities
·     Understand the harmful health effects of alcohol abuse

Here are some tips to keep your kids out of trouble with alcohol:
·     Know where they are. Too much unstructured time can lead to experimentation with drinking and other risky behaviors.
·     Keep track of your children’s friends. It’ll be easier for kids to say no if they’re not surrounded by drinkers.
·     Set clear rules about alcohol use.

Teach your kids how to say no. Refusing to participate without losing friends is a skill that requires practice. Help your children by role-playing appropriate responses in different situations.
Help your kids learn to read into the glamorous portrayal of alcohol in the media. Be sure your children know the potential consequences of excessive drinking such as hangovers, unwanted or unsafe sex, weight gain, car accidents and liver damage.

For more information and resources for talking to kids about alcohol visit the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. 

Sources:Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Federal Trade Commission, National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. And many thanks to Blue Cross Blue Shield for sharing these tips!
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Magellan’s EAP Program Communications Update on the West, TX Explosion

Posted on April 18, 2013 by Mary Stall

West, TX Explosion

Recovering from a disaster can be physically and mentally draining. When a fire or explosion occurs such as the one in West, TX, lives are suddenly turned around. One of the hardest things about a community tragedy is knowing where to begin and who to contact.

Securing yourself and the site

Contact your local disaster relief services such as the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army to help with immediate needs.

For information on family and loved ones in West, TX, there is an emergency hotline set up: 254-202-1100.

Local Resources:

American Red Cross of Central Texas http://www.redcross.org/tx/austin
512-928-4271

Salvation Army in Texas
http://www.redcross.org/tx/austin

Federal Emergency Management Assistance (FEMA):
www.FEMA.gov

Local Shelters available:

•     Central United Methodist Church
•     Texas State Technical State College in Waco
•     Blair’s Cove Apartment in Waco
•     Gholson ISD
•     Gholson Baptist Church
•     Latham Springs Inn
•     Aquilla ISD
•     Alliance Auto Auction on I-35
•     Sykora Family Ford in West
•     Abbot Community Center
•     La Vega Veterinary Clinic- taking in small animals for the night
•     Pharmacy at H-E-B store on Woodway is open
•     The Home Depot in Bellmead has reopened for anyone needing to buy supplies.
•     Organizations taking donations or items (clothing, blankets, etc.) for victims:

o  Scott and White Blood and Donation Center- taking blood donations overnight
o  Point West Bank – drop off or send to 200 West Oak Street, West 76691

What to do if you have been evacuated

•     Be sure to contact your family and friends to inform them of where you are.
•     Bring cell phone chargers, batteries, personal belongings and other items that you may need if you are out of your home for more than a few days.

If your home is damaged

Be sure not to throw any damaged goods away until after an inventory is made. All damage is taken into consideration in developing an insurance claim.

Resources Are Available

Additional information, self-help tools and other resources are available online at www.MagellanHealth.com/member. Or call us for more information, help and support. Counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide confidential assistance at no cost to you.

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Compass Health Pro: Avoid Unnecessary Charges on Your Surgery…Know Your Costs Upfront!

Posted on April 15, 2013 by Holly Carter

Jeremy Garrett, your Compass Health Pro, is always here to help you make the most of your healthcare dollars. One of the areas where people spend the most money is on surgery. There can be so many more costs than expected. From the hospital charges to the anesthesiologist, there can be many overwhelming bills.

This is where Jeremy Garrett, your Compass Healtcompass-doctorh Pro, comes in. If there is any chance you may be having surgery or even a diagnostic test, contact him and let him assist you in every step of the process! He can compare the costs of various healthcare facilities and specialists in your area.  Combine that with Compass Health Pro’s doctor recommendations and you’ll get the best quality care at the lowest possible price.

Whether already scheduled or not, please provide any upcoming procedure details to help Compass get started on your recommendations and out-of-pocket estimates! 

If you are having or considering Orthopedic surgery in the near future check out this video:

Orthopedic Surgeons – What Consumers Need To Know

Avoid being overcharged! Let Jeremy Garrett, your Compass Health Pro, assist with all of your surgical and healthcare needs today!

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Catch Your Zzzs for Free

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Holly Carter

Three out of five Americans have trouble sleeping. In the search for a cure, we spend up to $24 billion a year on products such as sleeping pills, pricey pillows, expensive mattresses, white noise machines, aroma therapy potions, and more.

Fortunately, the following recommendations can improve your sleep without costing you a dime!

  • sleepingAvoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening. Caffeine can affect some people up to 10 hours after they consume it.
  • Don’t smoke. Nicotine is a stimulant that can disrupt your sleep.
  • Stay away from alcohol within a few hours of bedtime. Alcoholic beverages can make you fall asleep faster, but they reduce the quality of your sleep and can make you wake up during the night.
  • Exercise regularly, but not within three hours of bedtime. Working out after that could keep you from falling asleep.
  • Don’t nap during the day.
  • Stick to a relaxing bedtime routine. This tells your brain it’s time to go to sleep. Try to begin winding down two hours before bedtime. Stop all work, texts and calls. Reading or listening to music for an hour before you go to bed can also help you wind down.
  • Make your bedroom dark, quiet and cool.
  • Don’t eat a large meal within two hours of bedtime. If you need a snack before bed, reach for something light, such as a bowl of whole-grain cereal with milk, a banana or a peanut butter sandwich.

When to Get Help
See your doctor if your sleep problems continue to bother you or if you:

  • Think you get enough sleep, but feel tired during the day.
  • Fall asleep during meals or conversations.
  • Thrash around and hurt yourself or your sleeping partner as you physically act out dreams.
  • Start a new medication and find it affects your sleep.
  • Have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.

And remember, sufficient sleep is not a luxury — it is a necessity. Lack of sleep can affect your immune system and can also affect how fast you recover if you get sick. Long-term lack of sleep also increases your risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease.

This month, join the conversation on sleep on the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas Facebook and Twitter pages.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; National Sleep Foundation, Mayo Clinic

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Diversified is changing its name toTransamerica Retirement Solutions

Posted on April 3, 2013 by Holly Carter

On January 1st, Diversified and Transamerica Retirement Transamerica PictureServices have joined forces to better serve our clients, participants, and advisors. We are currently working to change the name on all communications to our new brand, Transamerica Retirement Soultions. Until the renaming process is complete, you will sometimes see Diversified in communications and on the Web.

While the name will be different, nothing else about the company or your retirement plan will change. They will continue to offer you the interactive tools, reliable resources, and award-winning customer service you’ve come to expect.

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