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Early Detection Saves Lives: Your Guide to Breast Cancer Awareness

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Did you know that 1 in 8* women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime? The good news is, early detection is the key to successful treatment. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about this disease and supporting those affected.

Know Your Risk and Get Screened

  • Consult with Your Doctor: Discuss your personal risk factors and determine when mammograms are appropriate for you.
  • Mammograms Save Lives: Regular mammograms are a crucial tool for detecting breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable.

When Should I Get a Mammogram?

As part of our preventive care benefit, the APWU Health Plan covers in-network routine mammograms at 100%.  From age 40 through 64, one preventive mammogram is recommended each calendar year. To build your personalized list of preventive services go to https://health.gov/myhealthfinder. However, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best schedule for you, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors.

Understanding Breast Cancer

  • Common Cancer: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, excluding skin cancer.
  • Early Detection: Mammograms can identify breast cancer before it causes noticeable symptoms.

Recognizing Symptoms

  • Be Aware: While some people may experience no symptoms, be mindful of changes in your breasts, such as lumps, pain, discharge, or changes in size or shape.
  • Consult Your Doctor: If you notice any concerning symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.

Reducing Your Risk

  • Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, and limiting alcohol consumption can help reduce your risk.
  • Genetic Factors: If you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, discuss genetic testing with your doctor.

Let’s Make a Difference

This month the APWU Health Plan will once again participate in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk to fight breast cancer. By raising awareness, promoting early detection, and supporting those affected, we can make a significant impact in the fight against breast cancer.

Take Action Now

Schedule a mammogram today! Visit to find an in-network provider. Visit the national Cancer Institute website for self-exam resources: https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-self-exam/.

Sources

* American Cancer Society. (2023). Breast Cancer Statistics | How Common Is Breast Cancer? [Online]. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/about/how-common-is-breast-cancer.html

Get the Support You Need with Maven

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APWU Health Plan members, we are thrilled to introduce you to Maven, your comprehensive digital women’s and family health platform designed to support you and your covered dependents throughout your maternity, postpartum, and newborn experience.

Here’s why Maven is your go-to resource:

  • Unlimited Coaching & On-Demand Video Appointments: Connect with top-rated providers across 30+ specialties, including OB-GYNs, pediatricians, and even career coaches. Schedule video appointments or utilize 24/7 messaging for ongoing support.
  • Your Own Care Advocate: Personalized one-on-one support to help answer questions about your benefits, connect you with the right Maven provider, and even provide referrals to in-person care when needed.
  • Expert Content Library & Virtual Classes: Access a wealth of trustworthy content vetted by healthcare providers, covering everything from prenatal health to postpartum depression and returning to work with confidence. Maven also offers enriching virtual classes led by experts to empower you on your parenthood journey.

Maven is completely free for APWU Health Plan members!

Here’s how to get started:

  • High Option Members: Call 866-569-2064
  • Consumer Driven Option Members: Visit www.mavenclinic.com

With Maven by your side, you will have the support you need to feel confident and empowered throughout every stage of parenthood.

Wendy Abraham Retires from APWU Health Plan

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Wendy Abraham, a valued member of our team for over three decades retires on Friday, September 06, 2024. Wendy’s departure marks the end of a remarkable career dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare services to our members.

Wendy began her tenure at the APWU Health Plan in August 1987, bringing with her a wealth of experience as a critical care nurse. Her nursing background, combined with her extensive tenure at the APWU Health Plan, has made her a valuable asset to our organization.

Throughout her time at the APWU Health Plan, Wendy demonstrated unwavering commitment to her work and a deep understanding of the healthcare industry. Her expertise in critical care, health insurance, and managed care was invaluable.

We are grateful for Wendy’s dedication, hard work, and contributions to the APWU Health Plan.  On behalf of the APWU Health Plan, I extend our sincere gratitude to Wendy for her many years of service. Her positive attitude and willingness to go beyond for our members will be greatly missed. We wish her all the best in her retirement and hope she enjoys this new chapter in her life.

The Health Plan Heroes, in the Fight to End Diabetes!

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As the Director of Health Plan, I’m thrilled to announce our team’s participation in the American Diabetes Association’s Step Out for Diabetes DMV!  Each year the Health Plan  team raises money for health related causes.

This year’s event takes place on September 21st, 2024, at The Mall in Washington, D.C. Registration starts at 8:30 am, and the walk itself begins at 10:30 am. The staff of the APWU Health Plan, The Health Plan Heroes, will be walking alongside the other volunteers that day. 

Our team is making real difference in the lives of over 37 million Americans living with diabetes. Step Out is a premier fundraising event that unites us in the fight to end this disease. Diabetes has a devastating impact on far too many people and families, but together, we can make a change.

Fundraising support will allow us to fund crucial research, education, and advocacy efforts. We won’t stop fighting until a cure is found! Health Plan staff members that can’t participate in the walk are still able  to make a vital contribution by donating to our cause.  Donating is quick, easy, and all contributions are tax-deductible. If you would like to donate to our team you can do so at The Health Plan Heroes – Fundraising For American Diabetes Association (donordrive.com)

Our team truly appreciates any support you can give to this worthy cause. Let’s step out together and fight for a healthier future!

August is National Immunization Awareness Month

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Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones: The Importance of Immunization

August is National Immunization Awareness Month, a time to emphasize the critical role vaccines play in protecting individuals and communities from preventable diseases.

How Your Insurance Supports Immunization

At APWU Health Plan, we believe in the power of prevention. That’s why we cover recommended vaccines for all age groups as part of our comprehensive health plans.

If you have any questions about your insurance coverage for vaccines or need assistance finding a healthcare provider, please don’t hesitate to contact our Customer Service Department.

Why Immunization Matters

  • Protection for yourself and loved ones: Vaccines create a protective barrier against harmful diseases. By immunizing yourself, you reduce the risk of contracting and spreading illnesses.
  • Economic impact: Immunization saves lives and reduces healthcare costs by preventing costly hospitalizations and treatments.
  • Community immunity: When a high percentage of a population is vaccinated, it creates a “herd immunity” effect, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

Understanding Vaccines

We understand that you may have questions or concerns about vaccines. It’s essential to rely on credible information from trusted sources. Here are some resources to help you learn more:

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
  • Immunization Action Coalition (IAC):

Your Role in a Healthier Community

By staying up-to-date on your vaccinations, you’re not only protecting yourself but also contributing to a healthier community. We encourage you to talk to your healthcare provider about your immunization status and any questions you may have.

Remember, vaccines are one of the most effective tools in preventing the spread of disease. Let’s work together to build a healthier future for everyone.

Thank you for choosing the APWU Health Plan as your health insurance provider

Great News for Our Members: Prisma Health Back in Network

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I’m excited to share some positive news about your APWU Health Plan coverage. As many of you know, we’ve been working diligently to restore network access to Prisma Health for our members. I’m happy to announce that our efforts have paid off!

UnitedHealthcare and Prisma Health have reached an agreement on a new multi-year contract. This means that all APWU Health Plan members who have coverage through the UnitedHealthcare Choice Plus network can once again access in-network services at Prisma Health hospitals, facilities, and with their physicians.

This agreement took effect on July 19, 2024. We understand the inconvenience this temporary disruption may have caused, and we appreciate your patience and support throughout this process.

Our commitment to providing you with quality, affordable healthcare remains steadfast. We’re proud to continue serving the people of South Carolina and look forward to ensuring you have access to the care you need.

Don’t wait in a crowded ER for minor illnesses!

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Telehealth offers convenient care from the comfort of your home. It allows you to connect with board-certified doctors and other licensed providers virtually, using video chat or phone consultations. This is a great option for non-urgent health concerns like the flu, allergies, coughs, sore throats, rashes, and more. You can even get a prescription sent directly to your preferred pharmacy, if needed.

Telehealth benefits everyone! It saves you time and money by eliminating travel and wait times in traditional doctor’s offices. Plus, it helps reduce the spread of germs, especially for those at high risk or with compromised immune systems.

Our health plans make telehealth affordable:

  • High Option: Pay only a $10 copay for Teladoc visits.
  • Consumer Driven Option: Your cost is lower when you use Teladoc. You’ll pay either a 15% coinsurance or use your Personal Care Account (PCA) funds (no out-of-pocket cost when funds are available).

Get started with telehealth today!

  • Visit our website at apwuhp.com for all your Teladoc benefits.
  • Learn more about Teladoc at Teladoc.com.
  • Call 1-800-TELADOC (800-835-2362) to speak with a representative.

Additional benefits of telehealth:

  • Improved access to specialists, especially for those in rural areas.
  • Enhanced chronic disease management through remote monitoring.
  • Increased patient engagement and empowerment in their healthcare journey.

Remember, telehealth is not a replacement for all medical care. If you have a serious medical emergency, please proceed to the nearest emergency room.

Memorial Day

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On Memorial Day, we honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. We also send our support to those mourning a loved one today. Let’s come together and remember that there is always hope and help. Support is out there. Get started at FindSupport.gov.

APWU Health Plan Members can get support, answers, and expert care on our website.

Three animated sihouettes of service members are holding an American flag, in an image reminiscent of the famous photograph of the raising of the flag on Iwo Jima. Text reads, “Memorial Day. Remember and Honor.” A logo in the bottom right corner reads, “Mental Health Awareness Month.”