Health is one of the most popular searched items on the Internet today. But instead of wading through the mire of sites on the web, try checking out these additional resources on the World Wide Web.

womenshealth.gov: The Office on Women’s Health (OWH) in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services was established to help women and girls live healthier lives and have a better sense of well-being. OWH educates and motivates individuals to live healthier lives by giving them trustworthy and accurate health information through our innovative programs. Visit the website and subscribe to their many interesting and informative alerts.

girlshealth.gov: This was created to help girls (ages 10 to 16) learn about health, growing up, and issues they may face. This site promotes healthy and positive behaviors in girls, giving them reliable and useful health information in a fun, easy-to-understand way. The website also provides information to parents and educators to help them teach girls about healthy living.

healthfinder.gov: Healthfinder is an award-winning site and is recognized as a key resource for finding the best government and nonprofit health and human services information on the Internet. Healthfinder links to carefully selected information and Web sites from over 1,800 health-related organizations.

01/10/2012: Does This Make Cents? Creating and Sticking to a Budget

Whether your goal is paying off debt or saving up for a vacation, a budget is a great tool to help you achieve it. Visit your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) website to get a free budget form or use any of our more than 40 financial calculators. You can also read one of our many articles this month on budgeting and finances:

A Financial Planning Toolkit to Get Debt-Free
For People on Debt Management Plans: A Must-Do List
Money-Saving Tips
Splurging on a Budget

Your EAP is available whenever your are. We can help you with all of life's issues, big and small. Visit the website www.anthemeap.com (password "Butte Schools") or call 800-999-7222 for free, confidential assistance from the team of EAP experts.

Brochure in English Spanish

01/10/2012: Spring Webinar Schedule

Free webinars are available to all employees and retirees of BSSP member districts. All webinars begin at 7:00 p.m. All you need is access to a high-speed internet connection and a telephone in order to participate. Registration is limited to 125 computer connections for each event, so you welcome to invite your friends and gather around the computer together. Click on the dates below to register for each.

January 18: Eating Right for Life
February 15: Identity Theft - Prevention and Resolution
March 21: Communication Skills for the Workplace
April 18: Managing Your Money in Tight Times
May 16: Understanding Health Savings Accounts
June 20: Advanced Directives

Missed one or can't participate in the live webinar? Click here to download presentation materials and listen to a recording of previous events. Recordings are uploaded approximately one week after the live presentation.

12/19/11: Hospital Network Updates

Anthem and Enloe Medical Center have successfully negotiated a new three-year contract through December 1, 2014.

Anthem has also negotiated multi-year agreements effective January 1, 2012 with Sutter Health Systems (27 hospitals, 13 medical groups and 5,000 physicians) and Lodi Memorial Hospital.

12/13/11: BSSP Holiday Hours

The BSSP office will close Thursday, December 22nd and reopen on Tuesday, December 27th. The office will also close Thursday, December 29th and reopen on Tuesday, January 3rd.

If you need immediate assistance during the closed periods, please email Christy Patterson at cpatters@bsspjpa.org as she will be checking her email account periodically.

We wish you the happiest of holidays with your family and friends and the best 2012 has to offer!

12/13/11: Webinar -- Eating Right for Life

Donuts for breakfast, candy bar for lunch? Eating on the run? Does this sound familiar? Participants in this seminar learn the benefits of nutrition, including the importance of making informed food choices to develop and maintain sound eating habits.

The webinar will be held on January 18 at 7:00 p.m. -- connect from the comfort of home via high-speed Internet or via telephone. To register, email bssp@bcoe.org.

12/13/11: Eight Steps to a Healthier Holiday Season

Week 1 -- Swap your sweets for nuts, fruit and easy-to-grab healthy snacks.
Week 2 -- Remake your plate with more real estate dedicated to fruits and vegetables.
Week 3 -- Savvy snacking on healthy choices throughout the day may help you over-indulge on the event's big meal.
Week 4 -- Get up, get out, get moving? Just get walking to improve your circulation and metabolism.
Week 5 -- Avoid diet sabotage by bringing a healthy salad or low-calorie dessert as an alternative.
Week 6 -- Slim the trimmings by substituting applesauce for butter and sugar. Many other alternatives are available on the Internet.
Week 7 -- Reduce stress. Many people eat more when they are stressed. This is compounded when our bodies responds to stress by storing fat.
Week 8 -- Adopt a new attitude for the new year. Evaluate what worked over the recent weeks and what didn't and set small goals for the new -- overtime, your success will add up!

www.Kaiserpermanente.org

12/13/11: Live Tobacco Free

Anthem EAP is pleased to announce the addition of Live Tobacco Free, our new tobacco cessation service, effective 1/1/12. Live Tobacco Free is available to you at no additional cost to you. The program will consist of two components:

Online Program: LivingFree™: This 10 session, online training program will help members learn how to become an ex-tobacco user. The program’s positive motivational message focuses on the root emotional and physical causes of tobacco use. LivingFree™ teaches how to break the emotional connection with tobacco use.
Telephonic Coaching: Tobacco cessation coaching is a free employee benefit which provides access via telephone or through instant messaging with a trained tobacco cessation coach. The Coach helps members learn how to break down their tobacco use triggers and overcome nicotine addiction. The coach will also work with members on weight management and fitness. Supportive, motivational sessions are scheduled to help members learn the tools they need to attain those wellness goals.

Visit the EAP website at www.anthemeap.com (employer Butte Schools) for more information and to register for this service.

12/13/11: Identity Recovery

ID Recovery Specialists are available 24/7 to help you assess your risk level and then identify steps to resolve potential identity theft. This may include completing any necessary paperwork, reporting to the consumer credit agencies, and negotiating with creditors to repair debt history. The EAP Specialists will work with you to restore your financial identity to its pre-theft status.

Visit the EAP website at www.anthemeap.com (employer Butte Schools) for more information and to register for this service.

12/13/11: Can a Mouth Rinse Take the Place of Brushing?

No, but it can be a useful part of your overall oral hygiene routine. Learn more.

12/13/11: Your EAP News, Winter 2012

The Winter, 2012 Edition of EAP News (available in English and Spanish) contains valuable information on:

Home for the Holidays -- knowing when an older relative may need help
Boomerang Kids -- setting rules when adult children come back home
Internet Safety -- surfing the net on public Wi-Fi

12/07/11: Tune Up Your Search Engine

Getting information used to mean a trip to the library. Today, technology can give you information right away. But is it information you can trust? Your Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) can help you find the answers you need. With our collection of articles, resource links and research experts, we can help you find the answers to great questions. Log on to our website this month to read these featured articles:

Are You Ready? Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit
Keeping Your Memory Sharp
Helping Your Child Become a Responsible Citizen
Life Course Planning

Brochure in English Spanish

12/01/11: December is Prevention Awareness Month!

Each of us knows our body best – when we’re tired; getting a cold; or when something just doesn’t feel quite right. Even if everything feels fine, it’s good for you to see your doctor as recommended. That’s because regular, timely check ups may help prevent, detect and/or treat a health condition before it becomes a bigger problem.

Check out the links below for additional information on ...

Talking to Your Doctor -- how to maximize your office visit

Your Wellness Exam -- remember, an annual wellness exam with a network provider is available without any out of pocket cost (no deductible, copayment or coinsurance responsibility) to you!

12/01/11: Better Reasons to Exercise

When you reduce your stress, get more energy and lift your mood from being physically active all of your other roles and responsibilities benefit! When you are less stressed and feel happier you are a more patient parent, more creative and focused at work, and will enjoy your relationships more.

Can you see how these types of benefits make exercise more meaningful and relevant to fit into your busy life?

If your goal is to sustain a physically life but you haven’t yet been successful - I have good news: You can turn this around by changing your reasons for exercising.

By selecting new reasons to exercise you’ll discover the well of authentic motivation that resides inside of you through following the method I created and use with my coaching clients.

Here are recommend steps to reframe exercise so you can fuel an on-going desire and motivation to stick with it:

1. Assess the specific benefits you have been striving to achieve, in general, from exercising. (Many say “weight loss” – is that true for you?)

2. Ask yourself: How effective have these reasons been? Do they lead me to stay motivated?

3. Ask yourself, what values and experiences YOU most care about achieving in your daily life that exercise benefits would impact, such as reduced stress and improved mood. (How would impacting those things impact other areas you care deeply about?)

4. Give yourself permission to change your reasons for exercising to ones that connect to YOUR core values and life goals.

5. Stop following prescriptive advice. “One size does not fit all” when it comes to exercise or our reasons for exercising. You have to make it meaningful FOR YOU if you hope to keep it up.

adapted from http://michellesegar.com

12/01/11: "Tooth Be Told" Story Contest

Delta Dental is holding its first-ever story contest for children, running through January 15, 2012. We’re looking for kids ages 12 and under to submit original stories about losing a tooth, visiting the dentist or an experience related to dental health.

Three winning stories will be published on the MySmileKids website in January, in preparation for Children’s Dental Health Month. In addition, contest winners will receive gift baskets containing an Amazon gift card and MySmileKids-themed items. You can find more details about the story contest and a link to the rules on our children’s website, mysmilekids.com.

12/01/11: Quick and Easy Dental Hygiene for the Holidays

Parties with friends, family visits, holiday shopping – often, we get swept up in the festivities of the holiday season, and we may let the little things slide. But don’t let the hustle and bustle of the season keep you from practicing good dental hygiene.

In the long run, good dental hygiene is not such a little thing. To prevent dental problems from developing, you should continue to brush twice a day, floss every day and have your gums and teeth regularly evaluated by your dentist no matter how busy you are.

How do you keep up with your oral care regimen when you’re in a hurry? Here are some tips for keeping your dental care routine effective and efficient:

No time to floss? If you’re crunched for time, consider keeping some floss picks near your couch or TV for use while watching your favorite show. Or throw some in your purse or your pocket and use them on the go. And although most people cite lack of time as a reason for not flossing, the Academy of General Dentistry says that flossing even two or three times a week provides some benefit and is far better than not flossing at all.
No time to brush after your meal? If you don’t have time to brush after a meal, be sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to remove all food particles and lingering sugars.
Keep a bottle of fluoride mouth rinse in your purse, glove box or office desk drawer and slip away for a quick, refreshing rinse. Although mouth rinses should not be considered substitutes for a proper regimen of brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing, they can be a good quick fix to slow acid formation and tooth decay until you find the time later that day to floss and brush your teeth properly.
Sugar-free gum or mints with xylitol can be a quick fix for on-the-go dental care. Xylitol has been shown to have decay-preventive qualities. Experts recommend using a xylitol product immediately after meals and snacks to help reduce plaque, inhibit adhesion of bacteria to the teeth and reduce contact time of sugars on teeth. Because duration of exposure is important, gum should be chewed for approximately five minutes and mints should be allowed to dissolve.

Although these tips will help you keep up with your oral hygiene when you’re pressed for time, there’s just no substitute for regular brushing and flossing when it comes to fighting tooth decay. In addition, the better the brushing and flossing technique you have, the more effective you will be and the less time you will need to spend keeping your teeth in tip-top shape.

11/03/11: Delta Dental Evidence of Coverage Document Now Available!

Visit our Delta Dental link (above left) and click on Evidence of Coverage to access this document regarding your Delta Dental benefits.

11/01/11: Free Webinar: Holiday Survival

We all have special feelings about the holidays. For many, it's a wonderful time of celebration, family gatherings and joyful times. For others, it's a time of sadness, isolation, and feeling overwhelmed. In this seminar, participants examine sources of holiday stress and learn strategies for coping and managing their emotions, time, relationships and finances. Share ideas for organizing holiday tasks, managing holiday demands and look at the role of holiday traditions. Join us on line for this free webinar Wednesday, November 16 at 7:00 p.m.

Registration Calendar Other webinar information

11/01/11: Adding In to Your Home

Getting a roommate? Having a baby? Or welcoming an adult child home again? Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can help by giving you tips for sharing your home, resources for new parents and articles on how to live with kids who move home again. Call or log on to get started. This month, log on to the to read these feature articles:

Adopting Children with Special Needs
Bringing Your Baby Home
How Do I Become a Foster Parent?
Sandwich Generation: Caregivers in the Middle

Brochure in English Spanish

11/01/11: Women's Cancers and Related Genetic Testing Panel Discussion 11/8/11

November 8, 2011, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Enloe Conference Center, 1528 Esplanade.

Join Lydia Schrader, MD, FACS, Chico Breast Surgery, along with John Chan, MD, Director of Gynecologic Oncology and Julie S. Mak, MS, MSc, CGC, Genetic Counselor, Cancer Risk Program, both from UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, for a panel discussion with the community. Hosted by Michael Baird, MD, Executive Director, Enloe Regional Cancer Center. Light refreshments will be served. Open to the public. Free event.

10/25/2011: November is American Diabetes Month

Diabetes demands a lot – physically, emotionally and financially. It’s one of the most prevalent and costly conditions today, yet diabetes is often highly preventable. November is American Diabetes Month, so please read the attached information to learn more about preventing or managing this chronic illness.

Are you ready to make a few healthier lifestyle changes right now? Small changes that can add up to big rewards like a healthier heart, eyes, kidneys, nerves…you name it.

Since having diabetes increases the risk for future health problems, it’s important that you follow your doctor’s advice and take charge of our health. It may take some effort, but one thing’s for sure: better health and freedom from diabetes complications is worth the effort.

Ways to better manage diabetes:

Always follow your doctor’s advice.
Schedule your regular checkups. To help you, remember you’re A-B-C’s:
- A1C
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol
- Dental Exams
- Eye exam
- Foot check
- Kidney function tests – including microalbumin and creatinine tests
Choose healthier foods as part of your daily meal plan.
Stay physically active most – if not all – days of the week. Ask your doctor about the right type of exercise for you.
Check your feet every day.
Develop a sick day plan with your doctor or diabetes educator.
Take medicines exactly as your doctor tells you.
Graph your blood sugar every day. If you don’t know how to do blood sugar graphing, talk to your doctor or diabetes educator about how to do it. Graphing is a way to chart your blood sugar readings each day. It can help you better understand how small changes in food, activity, stress and some medicines affect your blood sugar level.

Source: http://journal.diabetes.org/diabetesspectrum/00v13n3/pg125.htm

This information is intended for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Please consult your physician for advice about changes that may affect your health.

10/25/2011: Delta Dental's September/October Newsletter

Click here to access Delta Dental's September/October newsletter with information on ...

Flossing your fangs
Sugary, sticky Halloween treats can play tricks on children's teeth
Top 10 ways to fight bad breath
Ways to win an iPad2 from Delta Delta

10/18/2011: Financial Information Updates

Visit BSSP's financial documents page to view the recently completed audit of the June 30, 2011 financial statements and the 2011-12 revised budget.

10/14/11: Fall Health Screening and Vaccination Clinic Appointments as well Coupons for as Flu, Tdap, Pneumonia and Shingles Vaccinations are Still Available

This fall covered members and their families have many opportunities for free flu, Tdap, shingles and pneumonia vaccinations.

Attend one of our on-site Vaccination Clinics in Chico, Oroville, Paradise, Gridley and on the Butte College main campus. Visit our Events page for details and registration information.
Print this coupon for a flu and/or pneumonia vaccinations administered by HealthTech Mobile Services and Raley's and BelAir locations from Woodland to Redding. Visit the Raley's website for details on the clinic dates and times in your area.
Request coupons for flu, Tdap, pneumonia and/or shingles vaccinations at Walgreens pharmacies nationwide. Email bssp@bcoe.org to request the coupon and visit the Walgreens website to find the Walgreens nearest you.

10/14/11: SmileWay Tip: One More Reason to Visit the Dentist

A good reason to visit the dentist regularly, besides a teeth cleaning, is that more than 120 medical conditions can be detected in the early stages by a dentist. It is well documented that a high percentage of health conditions can have oral symptoms such as swollen or bleeding gums, ulcers, dry mouth, bad breath and metallic taste.

Coffee and donuts for breakfast? Learn the effect on your oral health here.

10/03/11: The ABC's of Being a Good Co-Worker

Today's workforce often has more than one generation. And everyone has to get along to succeed. If no one ever agrees or there's no trust, how can your team work together? Your Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) can help with ideas on how to work together and how to work out differences of opinion. Log on to the EAP website in October to read these feature articles:

Co-work Conversations: Stop Typing!
Diversity and Disabilities
Cross-Cultural Communication Tips for Americans
Team Building with Gen X and Gen Y

Brochure in English Spanish

09/30/11: Healthy Habits, September, 2011

The September, 2011 edition of BSSP's Healthy Habits newsletter is now available for download here.

09/30/11: Fall Health Screening and Vaccination Clinic Scheduling is Now Open

Visit our Events page for details on our Fall Health Screening and Vaccination Clinic offerings.

09/30/11: Free Seasonal Flu, Tdap, Pneumonia and Shingles Vaccinations

This fall covered members and their families have many opportunities for free flu, Tdap, shingles and pneumonia vaccinations.

Attend one of our on-site Vaccination Clinics in Chico, Oroville, Paradise, Gridley and on the Butte College main campus. Visit our Events page for details and registration information.
Print this coupon for a flu and/or pneumonia vaccinations administered by HealthTech Mobile Services and Raley's and BelAir locations from Woodland to Redding. Visit the Raley's website for details on the clinic dates and times in your area.
Request coupons for flu, Tdap, pneumonia and/or shingles vaccinations at Walgreens pharmacies nationwide. Email bssp@bcoe.org to request the coupon and visit the Walgreens website to find the Walgreens nearest you.

09/30/11: Delta Dental’s SmileWay^SM Wellness Program Celebrates a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles in September

Did you know that gum disease – not the aging process – is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults? Learn how good oral health habits can help you keep your teeth healthy for a lifetime by visiting Delta Dental’s SmileWay^SM Wellness site during September.

Read articles about aging healthfully and take quizzes to assess your risk for gum disease and cavities. Be sure to connect Delta Dental with us on Facebook and Twitter during September to get regular oral health updates and celebrate a lifetime of healthy smiles along with us.

SmileWay Tip: If you haven’t talked to your dentist lately about what medications you’re taking, you should. From over-the-counter antihistamines to prescribed blood pressure reSmilegulators, many medications can cause side effects that negatively affect oral health.

Studies have confirmed that there is a that there is a connection between your oral and overall health. Learn how taking care of your oral health can help your overall health, especially if you or a family member is pregnant, smokes tobacco or has heart disease, diabetes or cancer.

09/30/11: Your EAP News, Fall 2011

The Fall, 2011 Edition of EAP News (available in English and Spanish) contains valuable information on:

Working parents - when it's OK to leave children at home
National Family History Day - learn your family health history
Caring for your pet - pet safety in the fall

09/30/11: Information Overload: Getting Through the Chaos

"It's true! I saw it online!" News about food scares, politics or medical advances travels fast. It's almost impossible to know what's real. And sometimes the wrong information can cause you anxiety and distress. Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can help with tips on finding trustworthy sites to help separate the fact from the fiction. Log on to the EAP this month to read these feature articles

Getting More Than You Asked For
Getting More Than You Asked For
You've Got Spam: How to "Can" Unwanted Email
Monitoring Your Child's Contact with the Surrounding World
The 411 on Disposing of Your Old Phone

Brochure in English Spanish

08/10/11: The Sandwich Generation -- Support for Caregivers (Webinar 8/17)

Caregiving and the oxygen mask principle
You know the oxygen mask principle: If you’re on a plane and the cabin loses pressure, you should secure your own oxygen mask before helping the people around you. If you lose consciousness while assisting someone who can’t help him or herself, you’re both out of luck.

Caregiving requires the same sort of discipline. When people are relying on you, taking care of yourself is the first step toward not letting them down. Caregivers are more likely to suffer from depression, hypertension, diabetes, and lung diseases than similar adults who aren’t responsible for the care of others. They are more likely to smoke or drink alcohol, and less likely to get preventive health screenings that would catch the early signs of trouble before a big problem develops. A study of caregivers for Alzheimer’s patients showed that caregiving can shorten a person’s life by four to eight years.

We encourage you to attend one of our upcoming DocTalk webinars, where Medical Director Tony Linares will explain why it’s so important to take care of yourself. And don’t forget: Two attendees from each session will be chosen at random to receive an iPod Nano.

The webinars are scheduled for August 17th at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. PST. Register at doctalk.webex.com. It’s just that easy!

Have a question or need more information? E-mail doctalk@wellpoint.com

08/10/11: Make the Most of Your Child's Visit to the Doctor

Follow these steps to make the most of your child’s visit to the doctor:

1. Gather important information. Before the appointment, gather information about your child’s health to share with the doctor or nurse. For example, make a list of any important changes in your child’s life since the last visit, such as a serious illness or a new school.

2. Make a list of questions you want to ask the doctor. Have there been any big changes in your child’s behavior? Write them down so you can be sure to ask the doctor about them.

3. Know what to expect. In addition to doing a physical exam, the doctor or nurse will ask questions about how your child is doing. These questions will help the doctor learn more about how your child is learning, behaving, and developing.

Check out the For Parents section of the Quick Guide to Healthy Living for more information about making the most of visits to the doctor.

08/01/11: Ways to Lower Your Medication Costs

The cost of medications continues to rise, impacting both the cost of claims to BSSP (and ultimately BSSP rates) as well as your out of pocket costs. What can you do to lower your out of pocket medication costs?

Choose generic medications whenever possible.
Purchase your medications from the outlet offering you the lowest copayment.
- For most prescriptions, Medco's mail order pharmacy offers you the lowest copayment for a 90-day supply.
- Many retail pharmacies (Walmart, Costco, Target, Raley's, etc.) now offer discounted copayments ($2.99, $3.99, etc.) for 30-day supplies of certain medications. These retail outlets offer the discounted copayments to encourage you to visit the store in the hopes you will purchase additional items while you're there. They also pick up the cost between BSSP's copayment through Medco and their published price, so there is no negative impact to the BSSP plan costs.
- Effective July 1, 2011, the following medications, with a doctor's prescription, are available for a $0 copayment at both retail pharmacies and through Medco mail order: aspirin, folic acid, fluoride, iron and smoking cessation medications.

Times are tight and every penny counts -- it pays to shop for the best copayment for your medications!

08/01/11: Taking Action in Your Child's Success

Being involved is one way to help your child succeed in school. It's important to have a home environment where your child can learn. Set high standards, and stay in touch with your child's teachers. Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can give you information and resources to help you support your child. Log on to the EAP this month to read these feature articles:

Questions Parents Ask About Schools: Introduction
How Parents Can Help Their Child Prepare for Higher Education
Parents: Campus Safety 101 When Touring Colleges
Supporting Your College Freshman

Brochure in English Spanish

08/01/11: August is National Immunization Awareness Month

Immunizations are important for healthy child development and remain vital throughout a person’s lifetime. August is National Immunization Awareness Month. And it’s important to talk to your doctor about the right schedule of preventive services for you and your family. Click here for more information to help you better understand protective immunizations.

The BSSP Fall Health Screening and Immunization Clinic schedule will be published in September. In addition to health screenings, this Fall's schedule will also include opportunities for free flu, Tdap, shingles and pneumonia immunizations.

08/01/11: 2011-12 Summary Plan Description Booklets Are Now Available

The summary plan description booklets for the 2011-12 plan year are now available on the website.

08/01/11: Medco Pharmacy Mobile App Now Available

Prescription alerts, reminders, and potential savings –available wherever you go!

The Medco Pharmacy app provides the personalized one-of-a-kind tools you need to help you stay on track with taking medications and managing prescription costs. Download the app for free and log in with your medco.com user ID and password to take advantage of its features*:

My Rx Choices: Look up potential lower-cost prescription options available under your plan and discuss options with your doctor – even while you’re still in the doctor’s office!

My Medicine Cabinet:

View your medications and set reminders for when to take them or notify you when you are running low.
Get personalized alerts if there’s a possible health risk related to your medications. You can also add over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements to check for possible interactions with your prescriptions!

Prescription ID Card: Don’t have your prescription ID card in your wallet? No problem. Use your phone to display a virtual card that you can show at the pharmacy.

This new app and its services are available at no cost to you. Anyone with an iPhone, BlackBerry® or Android™ smartphone can download the app today! Go to your smartphone’s app store† search for “Medco” and download the app – for free!

Spread the word! Be sure to let your friends and families know about this one-of-a-kind, innovative tool that can help them manage their medications, as well as their prescription costs. Once you use the app, please let us know what you think by e-mailing us at mobileapps@medco.com.

*If you haven’t yet registered on medco.com®, please go to the site to create your medco.com user ID and password.

08/01/11: ER Alternatives for Non-Emergency Conditions and Urgent Care Finder

“When your five-year-old is crying with a fever at 7 p.m. on a Friday because she has a sore throat or an ear ache, what do you do?” said Kurt Tamaru, MD, Anthem medical director. “It’s important people know that they have options for less serious ailments other than an ER, such as retail health clinics and urgent care centers that provide quality care and cost them significantly less.”

For example, emergency rooms that contract with Anthem Blue Cross generally charge an average $641 to treat strep throat compared with $70 at urgent care centers and $27 at retail health clinics. Consumers can save out-of-pocket expenses because ER copays cost about $150, compared with $25 for retail health clinics and urgent care centers.

All you have to do is go to Google, Yahoo! Or Bing and type in “Anthem and urgent care” and the educational site will pop up a link to help you find ER alternatives. The link will also provide information on when it’s appropriate to use these alternatives.

About 17 percent of all visits to hospital emergency departments nationally could potentially be treated at retail medical clinics or urgent care centers for an estimated savings of $4.4 billion, according to a RAND Corp. study published in the September 2010 edition of Health Affairs. ER visits also are getting longer, with California ranked 40st nationally in the length of its ER waits—274 minutes, according to the Emergency Department Pulse Report, Press Ganey Associates, 2010.

Research performed by HealthCore Inc., which conducts research for health plans and others, showed that a pilot program with a commercially insured population in Virginia, which included member education via e-mails and online advertising, in addition to financial incentives and a Google map finder for retail health clinics and urgent care centers, assisted in members’ decisions to use ER alternatives for non-emergency care.

The study showed that ER use for conditions that could be treated at retail health or urgent care clinics decreased in 2010 from 2009 for all populations studied. Specifically, HealthCore reported a 14 percent decrease in ER visits for those who participated in the program compared with those who did not. The decrease in visits covered minor sicknesses or conditions that could be treated elsewhere.

“This program demonstrates that by empowering members with information on appropriate resources, they can get the care they need while helping to control health care costs and reduce their out of pocket expenses,” added Anthem President Pam Kehaly.

After the intervention period, the group participating in the program was more than twice as likely to seek treatment for non-emergency conditions at retail health clinics than those who did not participate.

08/01/11: Tutorials to Help You Get the Most Out of Your Health Plan

Two new eTutorials are now available to teach you how to use Anthem's online tools and the basics of your health plan. When you launch these eTutorials, you can learn how to make the most informed decisions about your health, how to use your health care benefits and even how to save money.

Web Overview eTutorial: The Web Overview eTutorial will walk you through the online tools and show you the advantages of using them. You will learn how to:

Register
Use the cost and quality tools
Find a doctor
Take a health assessment
Personalize your own health record
Work with a personal health coach
View videos of common surgeries
Find discounts

Basics of Health Insurance eTutorial: We want you to understand your health care coverage and feel confident when you need to use your benefits. The Basics of Health Insurance eTutorial explains your health care plan in a humorous and interactive way utilizing plain language. You will learn:

Why regular checkups and tests are important and how they’re covered.
What deductible, coinsurance, copays and other common insurance terms mean.
How to save money by using in-network doctors.
How claims are approved and paid.
About your Explanation of Benefits.

08/01/11: Wellness Made Easy

If you exercise or work in hot weather, beware of signs of heat-related illness, such as headache, dizziness, rapid pulse, nausea and confusion. Don't overdo it, drink plenty of water, take breaks and rest in the shade, and schedule activities during cooler times of day when possible.
Protect your skin from sun damage in your car, home and office. If you ride in the car for long hours in the sun, wear long sleeves and/or use sunscreen. At home or at work, don't sit in direct sunlight from windows or skylights, unless the glass has been UV-treated.
Get revaccinated against whooping cough (pertussis). BSSP's Fall Health Screenings and Vaccination Clinic schedule will be posted in September -- free whooping cough boosters, along with seasonal flu, pneumonia and shingles vaccinations will be available.
Beware of fake fruit masquerading as real fruit in cereals and other foods. Check the ingredients -- better yet, add your own fresh fruit to cereal and other foods.
Spinach and Potatoes with Hot Bacon Dressing: Be sure to serve this wilted salad as soon as you have dressed it, before the spinach wilts completely and while the dressing is just seeping into the potatoes.

1 1/2 pounds all-purpose potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 ounce Canadian bacon, minced
11 cups (loosely packed) shredded stemmed spinach
3 large shallots, minced (about 1/2 cup)
1 tablespoon flour
2/3 cup water
1/4 cup cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

In a large pot of boiling water, cook the potatoes until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.

In a small nonstick skillet, warm the oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Add the bacon and cook until crisp, about 3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to the bowl with the potatoes. Add the spinach to the bowl.

Add the shallots to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until tender, about 4 minutes. Whisk in the flour until blended. Add the water, vinegar, sugar and pepper, stirring to combine. Stir in the mustard. Bring to a boil and cook, stirring, until lightly thickened, about 1 minute.

Pour the hot dressing over the potatoes and spinach, mix well and serve.

Makes 4 servings

Nutrition information per serving
calories 230 • dietary fiber 7 g • total fat 5 g (saturated 1 g) • cholesterol 3 mg • vitamin C 83 mg • calcium 210 mg • sodium 350 • mg • iron 7 mg • Good source of beta carotene

www.wellnessletter.com

08/01/11: SmileWay Tip

Flossing every 24 hours is just as important as brushing because it removes plaque and debris found between teeth, polishes tooth surfaces, and controls bad breath. By flossing your teeth daily, you increase the chance of keeping your teeth for a lifetime. Take the SmileWay Challenge and review your dental habits, get educated and stay informed.

07/06/11: FREE Tdap Booster Clinics for BSSP members

With just over a month before school starts, the deadline for getting your child's Tdap booster before the start of school is fast approaching! BSSP is providing free Tdap clinics as another opportunity to get your child vaccinated.

Free Tdap booster vaccines, which protects against diptheria, tetanus and pertussis (whooping cough), will be available for adults and children age 10 years or older who are insured through BSSP. Click here for the clinic schedule and to make your reservation.

06/08/11: Introducing Delta Dental’s New SmileWay^SM Wellness Program

Delta Dental recently launched the SmileWay^SM Wellness Program, a new dental wellness program to empower you to take charge of your dental health: Your smile. Your health. Your way.

A healthy lifestyle and good oral health habits can prevent complicated, pricey and painful dental problems. Now, you can take advantage of Delta Dental’s new dental wellness program, to help you prevent dental disease and promote oral health.

Take the SmileWay Challenge to:

Review Your Habits: Take cavity and gum (periodontal) disease risk quizzes and get personalized advice and customized links to relevant oral health resources, depending on your level of risk. When you get your risk assessment results at the end of the quiz, you can sign up for customized communications based on your results.
Get Educated: You’ll have access to an extensive dental health article and video library and award-winning children’s website to learn more about preventing cavities and gum disease, among other topics. More than 100 articles and six videos are featured in the SmileWay Wellness library.
Stay Informed: You’ll have the opportunity to connect with us through Facebook, follow us on Twitter and sign up for a free Dental Wire email newsletter subscription, in order to receive dental health tips on a regular basis.

Visit mysmileway.com today to see how it can help you understand and manage your oral health.

06/08/11: June 13-19 is National Men's Health Week

There’s really no better feeling than feeling good. And most of the time, all men need is a little routine maintenance throughout their 20's, 30's, 40's and 50+ to help keep them on a healthy track. From June 13-19, 2011, we're focusing on National Men's Health Week.

Testicular cancer facts:

This disease occurs most often in men between the ages of 20 and 39. It accounts for only 1 percent of all cancers in men.
Risk factors include having an undescended testicle, previous testicular cancer, and a family history of testicular cancer.
Symptoms include a lump, swelling, or enlargement in the testicle; pain or discomfort in a testicle or in the scrotum; and/or an ache in the lower abdomen, back or groin.
Diagnosis generally involves blood tests, ultrasound, and biopsy.
Treatment can often cure testicular cancer, but regular follow-up exams are extremely important.

06/08/11: Your EAP News, Spring 2011

The Summer, 2011 Edition of EAP News (available in English and Spanish) contains valuable information on:

Little changes can mean big savings -- gas tank sticker shock
Summer camp season -- help your child cope with summer camp
Summer water conservation tips - how to be water wise

06/08/11: Meeting the Challenges of Getting Older

As you grow older, you may face certain challenges. For some it may mean it isn't as easy to take long walks. It may mean giving up the keys to the car. Aging affects adults who care for older people, too. Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can yelp you learn about achieving healthy aging. We can also help with support for caregivers, resources for grieving and loss, and help with planning for elder care. Log on to the EAP website to read these feature articles:

Aging Successfully
Coping with Memory Loss
Examples of Intergenerational Programs
The Real "Golden Girls": Living Single After 55

Brochure in English Spanish

05/12/11: Additional Tools for Double-BSSP Covered Members Added to Open Enrollment Page

If both you and your spouse/registered domestic partner are covered as employees under BSSP plans, visit the Open Enrollment page for these new tools:

Interactive Plan Comparison Tool for double-BSSP covered members
A Summary of Benefits for Members with Double-BSSP Medical Coverage Blue Cross Network effective May 15, 2011
For members with double-BSSP coverage, only: you may submit your Certification of Coordination of Benefits and Dependents form directly to your human resourses/payroll office. That office has been provided with a list of all covered members within BSSP and can then verify that your spouse is also covered in BSSP as an employee without the need for your spouse to have your form certified by his/her employer.

05/05/11: Orthopedic Associates of Northern California returns to the Anthem Blue Cross Network effective May 15, 2011

Anthem Blue Cross has announced that Orthopedic Associates of Northern California has signed a provider contract and will return to network-provider status effective May 15, 2011.

05/15/11: Sleep to Your Health's Content

A good night's sleep is important. It's good for heart health, helps reduce stress, helps your focus and memory, and may actually help you manage your weight. Whether you have trouble falling asleep or you wake up in the middle of the night, your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can help you learn more about how to get the sleep you need. This month, log on to www.anthemeap.com (password "Butte Schools") to read these feature articles:

Brain Basics: Understanding Sleep
Tips for a Good Night's Sleep
Facts About Insomnia
Infant Sleeping Patterns

Your EAP is available whenever your are. We can help you get back on track and stay there. Visit the website www.anthemeap.com (password "Butte Schools") or call 800-999-7222 for free, confidential assitance from the team of EAP experts.

Brochure in English Spanish

05/01/11: May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month

May is High Blood Pressure Awareness Month. And small efforts like walking a little, watching salt and getting check ups are good ways to help improve your blood pressure and overall health.

Imagine for a minute that you’re sitting in a crowded stadium, watching your favorite baseball team play. There are thousands of people all around you. Would you ever think that 1 out of 3 people there have high blood pressure? In a packed crowd of 30,000 fans, that’s 10,000 people who have high blood pressure.

If you’re feeling good about your blood pressure, and your numbers are where they should be, great job! Keep monitoring your blood pressure at each medical checkup, or as often as your doctor may recommend. It’s good if you don’t have high blood pressure now, but there’s a strong chance that you might develop it eventually if you don’t keep track of it. In fact, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), we have a 90 percent chance of developing high blood pressure after age 55.

But don’t despair. Keeping blood pressure down is often a matter of lifestyle. The NHLBI offers these six steps to blood pressure control:

Reduce salt (sodium) intake. Sodium causes your body to retain fluid. This constricts your blood vessels and raises blood pressure. Those with healthy blood pressure levels should consume no more than 2,400 milligrams of sodium a day. That’s about a teaspoon of salt. If your blood pressure is high, your doctor may recommend no more than 1,500 milligrams a day.
Follow a healthy eating plan. The NHLBI’s Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) study found that a low-salt, low-fat diet filled with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains effectively controls blood pressure.
Maintain a healthy weight. As your weight rises, so does your risk of high blood pressure. Studies show that losing just 10 pounds can make a difference.
Be physically active. The NHLBI calls for just 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. For those who don’t like to exercise, daily tasks such as vigorous housecleaning, climbing stairs and pushing a stroller for 30 minutes also count.
Limit alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure.
Quit smoking. Even though it doesn’t directly cause high blood pressure, smoking injures blood vessels. That’s especially bad for those with high blood pressure. Once you quit, your risk of having a heart attack is reduced after the first year.

Click here to download additional information on high blood pressure.

05/01/11: Allergy Season is Here!

Valuable information on preventing or controlling spring allergies may be found at the US Department of Health and Human Services' website. Click here for more information.

04/12/11: April is National Cancer Control Month

April is National Cancer Control Month. And eating nutritiously, staying physically active, quitting tobacco use and getting regular check ups are the lifestyle behaviors that researchers say may help prevent 50 to 75 percent of cancer deaths.

Remember those dreadful days of childhood when “routine checkups” really meant your pediatrician was going to give you a shot? Or worse – more than one?

Despite the doctor’s, nurse’s and your mother’s attempts to console you by saying it would “all be over before you know it,” the anxiety could feel almost unbearable. In your childish mind, this was torture. How could everyone act like it was no big deal?

So you whimpered – or sobbed – and in a second or two, it was all over, just like they promised. For your bravery, you may have gotten some small reward – your badge of courage – intended to bring a smile to your red, tear-streaked face. Then out the door you went, armed against the invisible monsters of measles, mumps, polio, chickenpox and whooping cough.

As you matured, you realized two important things about those shots: (1) they really were not as bad as you had imagined; and (2) they were critical to your overall health and wellness.

Now you are an adult and your routine checkups have changed a bit. Your preventive care now includes intimate and somewhat awkward exams including those that screen for a new monster - cancer.

The truth is this: most people understand that screenings for breast, cervical, prostate and colorectal cancer are key to saving lives, but they do not regularly get them. Why? Is it because we get confused about the timing of certain types of cancer screenings? Do we put it off thinking, “I’m not sick, so why go to the doctor?” Is it the fear of the actual test and the temporary discomfort during the invasion of our most sacred body parts? Or are we afraid that the monster will get us?

Our reasons probably include many, if not all of these scenarios.

Remember that action gets results. A screening simply means that your doctor is taking preventive measures to check for cancer before you ever have any symptoms. And when you make your health a priority, you help defeat the monster.

Start talking about the uncomfortable subject of cancer screenings. Talk to your doctor first. Make sure you know how often to be tested, how long the procedure will take and how to ease any anxiety you may be experiencing. Then ask a trusted friend or family member to describe his or her experience with you. Although the matter is serious, you will most likely find a little humor in your discussion along with some very useful advice to prepare you for your important screening.

Then, stand up to the monster. Get screened. And encourage someone else you care about to get regular cancer screenings also - your spouse, a sibling, even parents of adult children can remind them that it will “all be over before you know it.” Your reward? Better health, and possibly your life.

Mammograms, an X-ray of the breasts, can detect 90-95% of cancers unable to be felt during a self-exam. The actual test only takes about five to ten minutes. The National Cancer Institute recommends women 40+ get mammograms every one to two years. Free mammograms (breast screenings) are available at North State Imaging in Chico and Valley Women's Imaging in Oroville. Visit our Mammograms webpage for additional information.

Prostate exams for men include a simple blood test (called a PSA test) and a digital rectal exam – or DRE. The good news is that the DRE only takes about 5 minutes. About half the time, any suspicious lump found during this exam is not cancer. The American Urological Society and the American Cancer Society recommend these tests annually for men age 50+. Free PSA tests are included in BSSP's free health screenings. Visit our Events webpage to schedule your health screening appointment.

Colorectal exams are typically recommended for men and women beginning at age 50 according to the American Cancer Society. There are several methods doctors use to screen for colorectal cancer, beginning with a DRE (digital rectal exam). Based on your personal history, your doctor will recommend the most appropriate test for you, Typically, these tests are only repeated every five to ten years. Free colorectal (stool occult tests) screenings are included in BSSP's free health screenings. Visit our Events webpage to schedule your health screening appointment.

For more information about breast, prostate, colorectal and cervical cancer and screenings, visit anthem.com/ca.

ComplexCare: Support when you need it the most

Cancer Screenings: Early Detection Saves Lives

04/12/11: Success in the Workplace

With tight budgets many employers look inside to find the skills they need to get the job done. Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can help you develop skills in your organization. Or help you find the right tools you'll need to complete projects on your down, either at work or at home. We can research training programs and give you tips for adult learning, too. Log on to the website in April to read these featured articles:

Creative ways to motivate employees
Secrets of successful presentations
Giving feedback to sensitive employees

The EAP is available whenever you are -- any time of the day or night. Visit the EAP website (Butte Schools) or 800-999-7222 (Butte Schools) for free, confidential assistance from the team of experts.

04/12/11: Your EAP News, Spring 2011

The Spring, 2011 Edition of EAP News (available in English and Spanish) contains valuable information on:

Improving your credit score
On-the-job training
Getting and staying fit
Making your own cleaning supplies

04/02/11: Automated Calls Connect Case Management Nurses with Members

When Anthem case management calls, there are real benefits if you stay on the line. The automated phone calls allow Anthem's case managers to reach more members with quality services, such as:

Support, both before and after a medical procedure or hospital visit
Follow-up questions, to make sure members are getting the appropriate care
Information about the importance of drug compliance, doctor visits and follow-up treatments
Assistance finding community resources

How the phone calls work: First, the call will let you know it is from Anthem. Because your privacy is important, it will also verify that the right person is on the phone. You will also remind be given the option to speak with a case manager at the end of the automated call.

Then, you will be asked questions about:

Coordination of care
Follow-up appointments with your provider
Getting and managing your medicines
Help with home care, health care supplies or transportation
Discharge guidelines

Finally, you will be offered valuable support, including information in Spanish for our Spanish-speaking members. Fellow members who have received these automated calls report positive experiences and value the outreach efforts.

Don't forget -- you call Case Management by calling the Customer Service number (800-627-5342) and requesting a nurse case manager.

03/26/11: Member Endorsement: Wellness Apps that Work!

A fellow BSSP Member's Testimony:

"At 62 I've struggled in the past to try to lose a few pounds. Not until I stared using the app Lose It! did I have any success. Together with daily logging of exercise and food intake, I've been able to lose 10 pounds and become more fit. Easy Home Remedies, by Reader's Digest, is another app I have found to be quite useful."

If you have a wellness or health-related tip or tool to share, please email cpatters@bsspjpa.org.

03/25/11: Health Screening Appointments Are Still Available

We still have health screening appointments available:

Don't miss this great opportunity to receive free blood panel, blood pressure and pulse, and body fat analysis information!

03/25/11: Past EAP Webinar Recordings and Handouts Now Available

We encourage you to sign up for our upcoming webinar wellness and life planning webinar series. Visit our Events page for date and registration information.

If you aren't able to attend one of the webinars, or would like a refresher on a topic presented, recordings and handouts are available at the webinar archive page.

03/25/11: March is National Nutrition Month!

Words like “refined”, “saturated” and “solid” are great to hear if they’re describing jewelry, paint colors or the foundation of a house. The same isn’t true if you’re trying to follow a healthy eating plan. Refined sugar and flour in breads add empty calories and no fiber; and large amounts of saturated fat are not heart-friendly, especially solid fats like butter and lard. The result: too many calories and not enough nutrients.

A healthy eating plan should include a variety of foods from the basic food groups that provide the most nutrients from the calories we consume. The basic food groups are these:

Grains
Vegetables
Fruits
Fats
Milk
Meat and beans

Following a healthy eating plan helps your body guard itself against serious conditions including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis and certain cancers. Combine this good habit with 30-60 minutes of physical activity most days of the week and you can also help keep your weight at a normal level.

This is excellent news for all of us. It means that, one meal at a time, we have the power to potentially control the course of disease based on the lifestyle choices we make. Understanding good nutrition basics can help us make better food selections now. Consistently making better food selections over time can become a habit. And a habit of nutritious eating and exercising can add up to a lot of time spent enjoying a better quality of life.

Learn more about what’s in your food and why eating a variety of essential nutrients is vital to your good health and wellness. Check out the Fitness and Nutrition articles and tools by visiting www.anthem.com/ca.

03/25/11: Reading Nutrition Labels

You know it’s there. On the side of the cereal box. On the back of the soup can. Lurking under the flap of that candy bar wrapper. But are you paying attention to the Nutrition Facts label? It’s not as daunting as you might think.

Once you get the hang of it, a quick label scan could help spare you some heart ache. Or help you shave off a few pounds, lower your cholesterol or give you a nutrient boost. For most people, the main things to look for are:

number of servings (you might be surprised)
calories per serving
total, saturated and trans fat grams
cholesterol
sodium
fiber
vitamins, calcium and iron

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has more information and diagrams of nutrition fact labels to help guide you to the healthiest choices for you. Visit their consumer information page at: http://www.fda.gov/Food/LabelingNutrition/ConsumerInformation/ucm078889.htm

Even in today’s era of convenience foods, not everything comes neatly packaged and labeled. It can be hard to gauge what you’re getting into with the prepared foods you eat at home, work or in restaurants. Just log on to look up the nutritional value of unlabeled foods. The USDA Nutrient Database and NutritionData are two online resources loaded with facts and resources. Try them out!

Want more helpful tools and information on nutrition, calories and healthy living activities? Register/log in at www.anthem.com/ca.

03/25/11: Technology: When Its Too Much of a Good Thing

Sometimes, emailing, IMing, texting and tweeting can be too much of a good thin. But letting go can be difficult. Your Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) can help with tips on using technology more effectively, time-saving techniques, and suggestions for spending time unplugged. Log on to the EAP website ("Butte Schools") to read these feature articles:

Volunteering as a family
Get back to the basics to find balance in life
Online scams
Six ways to reduce email overload

Your EAP is available whenever you are. You can reach out to it at any time of the day or night for help on a wide range of issues. Visit the EAP website ("Butte Schools") or call 800-999-7222 for free, confidential assistance from our team of EAP experts.

03/25/11: Live Well, Learn How: healthfinder.gov

www.healthfinder.gov is a government website where you will find information and tools to help you and those you care about stay healthy. You'll find resources in a wide range of health topics selected from over 1,600 government and non-profit organizations to bring you the best, most reliable health information on the Internet.

	Don McNelis - Superintendent 1859 Bird Street Oroville CA 95965 Phone: (530)532-5650	Search BCOE Web Site