concierge winter 2013

[ m e m b e r p r o f i l e ]

l i f e , h e a l t h & w e l l n e s s a p u b l i c at i o n o f

Vo

lu

me 2

| N

um

be

r 4

| 2

013

Darel Smith

Choosing to See the Bright Side

Have you ever been told to look for the silver lining? For a lot of people, that’s a difficult task. Life is filled with challenges and how we

handle those challenges says a lot about us. Darel Smith of Campbellsport, Wisconsin understands this better than most.

Those who’ve had the pleasure of meeting Darel describe him as friendly, welcoming and funny. He’s often in good spirits despite stressful situations or challenges to his health. He and his wife Sandy are the type of people that make you feel like an old friend within moments of meeting them.

If anyone has a reason to feel pessimistic, it would be Darel—he has been dealt more than his fair share of health challenges. But, it is clear from the moment you meet him, that’s not the case. Darel doesn’t dwell on the negatives—instead he always seems to find the bright spot in any given situation.

In 1985, Darel was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is a painful condition that occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks your body’s own tissues. Unfortunately, there is no cure for RA and it can make daily tasks difficult. When Darel was diagnosed, he was running his own small business—a construction company. His condition made it difficult for him to oversee his crew and nearly impossible to fill in when needed.

Darel knew he would have to retire earlier than planned. He admits it was difficult and he simply didn’t

feel ready for it. Darel had always been a hard worker—having grown up on a farm, hard work was instilled in him at a young age, and he enjoyed it. Living a retired life was quite an adjustment for him and he wasn’t sure how to handle it. He explains, “Fishing was my therapy.”

In addition to adjusting to his new retired lifestyle, Darel also had a lot of medical bills to deal with. He was growing increasingly frustrated with his old health insurance company. He says “The paperwork was crazy—it felt like a full-time job just keeping up with all of it.” He also remembers how difficult it was to get in contact with them. “The only time I ever heard from them was when they were denying claims.”

Fortunately, his friend and insurance agent had a suggestion. “He told me he had good news and bad news. The good news was he knew of an insurance company that could save me a lot of time and money.

H5215_MbrNewsV7 Accepted 12172013

continued on page 2 »

How Darel Smith manages to stay optimistic even when faced with health challenges.

Both Sandy and Darel Smith have a passion for traveling. Darel’s dream vacation was to visit Alaska, pictured above. They’ve also been to Germany, Australia, Canada and they like to spend winters in Texas.

2 | ConCierge NetworkHealthMedicare.com

life

tell Us what YoU think Thank you for your comments about the last issue of Concierge. Please continue to email your feedback to [email protected].

YoU can also write to UsNetwork Health, Attention: Cassie Ashman1570 Midway Pl., Menasha, WI 54952

The bad news was he couldn’t sell it to me.”His friend recommended a Network Health Medicare Advantage (PPO) plan.

Since he worked exclusively for a different company, he wasn’t able to enroll Darel, but still pointed him in the right direction. Darel switched to a Network Health Medicare Advantage plan in 2006. He immediately noticed the difference in his health care coverage.

“Switching was such a relief—not only financially, but emotionally and psychologically.” When Darel switched to Network Health, he was no longer buried under paperwork. When he has questions about claims, he just calls Jean Trochta, his health care concierge. “Now Sandy and I hardly have to do anything—Jean takes care of things.”

Darel also appreciates having his choice of physicians to visit. With his health concerns, it was important to have access to the doctors and specialists he wanted. In addition to RA, he also suffered a severe heart attack, kidney stones and 11 years ago, he was diagnosed with leukemia. While the diagnosis would be difficult for anyone, Darel accepted it and focused on his treatment. “My doctors are outstanding and my oncologist is one of the best in the state.”

Darel also takes advantage of the Network Health care management program. This program connects members with a registered nurse care management coordinator. Nurses work one-on-one with members to help them manage health conditions and meet health goals. As a Network Health Medicare member, this program is offered at no additional cost. Darel’s case manager, Jennifer Footik-Tank, was impressed by his outlook. “Working with Darel has been a great reminder of how a positive attitude in the face of health challenges can change the course of an outcome. His never-quit approach, honesty and general happiness with life have made him a pleasure to work with.”

Darel admits it’s not always easy to stay optimistic when you’re faced with challenges to your health. He acknowledges he’s needed to scale back on his traveling and hobbies. But, he enjoys spending time with his loving family—he and his wife Sandy just celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary on November 26. They have four children—two sons, Mitchell and Corey, and two daughters Meridee and Carmen. And, last year they became great grandparents for the first time. Darel finds a lot of joy spending time with his great granddaughter, Lydia. With their support, Darel manages to stay positive through adversity and serves as an amazing example to the rest of us.

“eDitorial staff

President Sheila Jenkins

ChiefAdministrativeOfficer Penny Ransom

PublicationsCoordinator Cassie Ashman

GraphicDesigner Debra Sutton

eDitorial boarD Marcia Broeren, Joan Merwin, Angie Keenan, Jeanne Skinner, Melanie Draheim, Dawn Rady, Deborah Anderson, Renee Corral, Barb Gore, Chuck Rynearson

Concierge is published quarterly by Network Health. The health information contained in Concierge is meant to supplement, not replace, the advice of health care professionals.

© 2013 Network Health Insurance Corporation. No portion of this newsletter may be reproduced without written permission from Network Health Insurance Corporation. Network Health Medicare Advantage Plans are PPO plans with a Medicare contract. NetworkCares is a Coordinated Care Plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the Forward Health Wisconsin Medicaid Program. Enrollment in Network Health Medicare Advantage plans depends on contract renewal.

“Switching was such a relief—not only financially, but emotionally and psychologically.

continued from page 1»

ConCierge • Winter 2013 | 3NetworkHealthMedicare.com

Pedometer— Harvard Health Publications reports pedometer users walk at least 2,000 more steps each day than nonusers. When the weather is cooperating, head outdoors for a walk or jog. And to help you stay motivated, set a goal for yourself. Then, wear your pedometer to measure your progress toward that goal.

Yoga mat—If you’d prefer to stay home, try yoga or Pilates. These workouts can help you burn calories while minimizing the risk of injury. If you’ve never done yoga or Pilates before, follow along with a video. You can find many free videos online or check out the On Demand channels from your cable TV provider. They may offer several free choices as well. If you don’t already have a yoga mat, you can pick one up from any major retailer for under $20.

JumP roPe (or JumPing Jacks)—You probably loved it when you were a kid, why not give it another shot? Depending on the intensity, you can burn up to 700 calories an hour—making jumping rope one of the most effective exercises on the list. Basic jump ropes are inexpensive and easy to find, but if you’d prefer to skip the expense all together, you could always do jumping jacks instead. Just ten minutes of jumping jacks will burn around 95 calories (depending on your weight and height).

Hand weigHts—A set of hand weights or dumbbells can be a big help in strengthening your shoulders, upper back and arms. And if you don’t already have a set, you don’t have to run out and buy them. Consider using a milk jug—you can fill it with rice, dried beans or water. But, tape the opening to make sure it’s securely closed before doing your arm curls.

top 5 ways to avoid slips and falls this winter

Have a smartphone?

Then you have access to helpful apps like Pedometer FREE or Map My Walk. Both apps can measure how far you’ve walked and how many calories you’ve burned at no cost.

most people don’t like working out, but almost everyone likes the benefits that come with it. It’s great to see the numbers on the scale drop or hear friends ask, “Have you lost weight?” Unfortunately, as the great Vince Lombardi explained, “The only place

success comes before work is in the dictionary.”

While you can’t avoid the hard work, you can avoid the gym. With the few healthy tools described below, you can get fit without spending a lot of time or money.

Fitness Plan or calendar—This may be the most important tool on the list. To keep your motivation up, write down your goal and record your daily or weekly progress. A lot of research supports you’re more likely to achieve your goal if it is written down. It may also be helpful to schedule your workouts. If you already keep a daily planner, add your workouts to the week ahead. Or, an ordinary notebook will work just fine.

exercise that Fits Your schedule and Budget

winter is here and traveling can be dangerous. The snow and ice often

make it difficult to get around. But, it’s not just driving we need to worry about. Every winter, many Wisconsinites needlessly suffer due to injuries from falls. Residents of the Badger State need to take care to prevent accidental falls that result in fractures, strains and bruising.

The good news is these injuries can be prevented. Follow these tips to decrease your risk of falling.

Want to learn more about falls prevention? Consider taking a Stepping On workshop. Call us at 920-720-1655 to find a workshop near you.

1 take your time. When conditions are icy, slow down and take small steps. Be careful getting in and out of your car and make sure paths and walkways are clear. Take alternative routes if necessary.

2 Be active. Stretching and flexibility can help you avoid injury. You can improve your muscle strength and reaction time by exercising and being active.

3 look out. Be aware of weather conditions. Watch where you’re stepping and make sure you’re not distracted when traveling—put down your cell phone.

4 limit alcohol. This time of the year, many people overindulge. But, too much liquid holiday cheer can affect your judgment and balance. Limit alcohol to two drinks a day or less.

5 wear proper shoes. One of the best ways to avoid falls is choosing shoes or boots with good traction. Footwear should have rubber soles and little to no heel. You may also want to consider purchasing traction devices for

your shoes, like Yaktrax®.


health

300280

260

240

220

200180160140

120100

80

60

4020

Know your numbersBlOODPressure

Near or above goal

120/80 or below

High blood pressure

140/90 or above

Prehypertension

121-139/81-89

triGlyCeriDes

0 100 200 300 400 600500

type of cholesterol

Goal borderline high high

Total Below 200 200-239 240 or higher

LDL (“bad”) Below 100 100-159 160 or higher

HDL (“good”)Women: 50 or higher

Men: 40 or higherWomen: below 50

Men: below 40N/A

Cholesterol

NearorabovegoalLess than 150 mg/dL

High200-499

VeryHigh500 or above

BorderlineHigh150-199

network Health will continue to offer a yearly wellness visit with your primary care physician. The purpose of this visit is to develop or update a personalized plan to prevent disease and

disability based on your current health and risk factors.

This year, as part of the visit, your doctor can complete a physical exam to further assess health issues or problems you may have. If this is completed as part of your annual wellness visit, there will be a $0 copayment in-network. You can also have a complete blood count, fasting blood sugar and lipid panel screening to assist in the early detection of diabetes, high cholesterol or blood disorders (when done with the annual wellness visit, there will not be a copayment).

The way your doctor submits this visit to Network Health ensures you don’t have a copayment. The following medical codes are submitted to

Network Health to describe this visit, and you can take these to your appointment. • A code of 99213 for established patients, or 99203 for new patients.

The annual wellness visit includes the following.w A review of medical and family history w Developing or updating a list of current providers and discussing care received from other providers w A review of current medications, supplements and vitamins w Height, weight, blood pressure and other routine measurements w Personalized health advice, including referrals to health education or preventive counseling services that may help minimize or treat potential health risks w A review of physical and mental abilities, including any cognitive impairment and a screening for depression w Planning a screening schedule (like a checklist) for appropriate preventive services

trouble with multiple medications? We Can Helpas a Network Health Medicare Advantage

member, you may be eligible for our medication therapy management program at no cost to you.

What is medication therapy management?It’s a program designed to help members manage several medications. By participating, you can expect the following.• A medication review completed by a pharmacist or health care professional• Improvement in your medication use• Reduction in the risk of dangerous drug interactions—including over-the-counter drugs and herbal products

• Verification you’re taking medications correctly and as prescribed• Ensure you are on the most appropriate and cost effective medications

Who is eligible?To be eligible for the program, you must meet the following criteria.

1. You must have at least three long-term (also called chronic) medical conditions.2. For long-term medical conditions, you must take seven or more daily medicines that are covered by Medicare Part D.

3. Your Part D covered medications must cost more than the CMS-specified annual cost threshold set by Medicare. For 2014, that amount is $3,017.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, you are automatically enrolled in medication therapy management and will receive an introductory letter that tells you how to get started. You will also get a letter that outlines the medication review and suggests next steps to be discussed with your doctor.

If you are eligible, make sure to take advantage of this program. If you have any questions about the program, contact your health care concierge.

Understanding Your Annual Wellness Visit and How It’s Covered


network Health evaluates the quality of care and services provided to members using two nationally recognized tools, the Healthcare Effectiveness and Data Information Set (HEDIS®) and the

Consumer Assesment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS®). Each tool scores our service in a different way. The following tables highlight our 2013 results and show the excellent ratings of Network Health’s Medicare Advantage PPO plans on both state and national levels.

how we stack UpQUalitY anD performanceNetwork Health Medicare Advantage 2013 HEDIS Results

member satisfactionNetwork Health Medicare Advantage 2013 CAHPS ResultsPercentages reflect the number of members who gave positive reviews. A positive review is defined as a member answering 8, 9 or 10.

The source for data reported above is Quality Compass© and is used with the permission of the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). Any analysis, interpretation or conclusion based on this data is solely that of the authors, and NCQA specifically disclaims any responsibility for any such analysis, interpretation or conclusion. Quality Compass is a trademark of NCQA.

Category Network Health

Medicare Advantage 2013 Results

Network Health Medicare Advantage

2012 Results

Network Health Medicare Advantage

2011 ResultsBreast Cancer Screening 76% 75% 77%

Colorectal Cancer Screening 72% 55% 56%

Glaucoma Screening 73% 71% 72%

Hemoglobin A1C Testing in Diabetics 96% 94% 95%

Hemoglobin A1C <9% in Diabetics 85% 77% 87%

Medical Attention for Nephropathy in Diabetics 91% 91% 87%

Cholesterol Screening for Diabetics 93% 89% 90%

Cholesterol Level <100mg/dL for Diabetics 61% 54% 59%

Cholesterol Screening for Members with a Cardiovascular Condition 94% 92% 94%

Cholesterol Level <100mg/dL for Members with a Cardiovascular Condition 69% 63% 67%

Members with a Preventive or Ambulatory Visit in the Year 96% 96% 96%

Category/MeasureNetwork Health

Medicare Advantage Results

Wisconsin Health Plans Average

Results

National Average Results

In the last 6 months, how often did your health plan’s customer service staff treat you with courtesy and respect?

95% 92% 95%

In the last 6 months, how often did your health plan’s customer service give you the information or help you needed?

93% 81% 82%

Using any number from 0 to 10, where 0 is worst health plan possible and 10 is the best health plan possible, what number would you use to rate your health plan?

71% 71% 64%

Using any number from 0 to 10, where 0 is the worst personal doctor possible and 10 is the best personal doctor possible, what number would you use to rate your personal doctor?

83% 86% 75%

The source for the data reported above is the 2013 Medicare Advantage CAHPS Results provided by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Any analysis, interpretation or conclusion based on the data is solely that of the authors. HEDIS® is a registered trademark of the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). CAHPS® is a registered trademark of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ).

Quality program information t Network Health, we have an entire program and department focused on quality. Each year, we update our quality improvement program structure which includes the program’s goals, its role and a written description of the program.

The quality improvement program reports to the board of directors and a quality improvement committee oversees the function of the organization. We develop an annual quality work plan and plan a description of company resources devoted to the program.

In addition, both behavioral health and patient safety are specifically addressed in the program

description; the quality improvement committee includes a designated physician and a designated behavioral health practitioner who have substantial involvement in the program. Also addressed in the description is the role, structure and function of the quality improvement committee, along with other connected committees and how often they meet.

For more information about our quality improvement programs, please call the Network Health Quality Improvement Department at 920-720-1229 or toll-free at 800-826-0940, extension 1229 (TTY 800-947-3529).

a

To receive this special discounted rate, log on to eventusher.com and type medicare in the password field. Then, purchase your ticket by following the simple instructions that appear.

Exclusive Reduced Rate

sister actsunday, may 11 at 1 p.m.tickets start at $28

This offer is only valid for Network Health Medicare Advantage members and their families. Not valid on previously purchased tickets. Valid while supplies last. Offer expires January 13, 2014, at midnight.


wellness

the holiday season is a time for families, gift-giving and making memories. Between going to parties, buying presents and decorating, it’s easy to forget that the holidays can make some people realize how much they don’t have. If you want to make a difference in your

community this holiday season, volunteering won’t cost you a dime, and can improve someone’s life.

Here are some ways you can give back this year.Community ServiceIt doesn’t take any special skills or experience to donate your time. Most places, like a soup kitchen or homeless shelter, will provide on-site training. All you really need to do is show up.

If volunteering as a family, community service programs present a great opportunity to start a new family tradition and can set a great example for children.

DonateIf you can’t find the time to volunteer in your community, you can still help out others in your area by simply donating your unwanted items. Gather up your old clothes, kitchen supplies and any other items needlessly filling up your closets or basement and donate them to a good cause.

You can also purchase new items, such as toys, coats or any holiday gift to go to a family or child in need.

Get Involved During the holidays, many activities focus on community outreach. If your town has programs in place, make this the year you participate. A little generosity on your part can go a long way to brighten someone’s holiday season.

If your community does not have a holiday outreach program, consider starting one. Something as simple as a toy or clothing drive can make a difference.

what to Do when change isn’t Good

You’ve heard it before, “change is good.” But big life changes (like retirement, loss of loved ones or

health problems) can bring a lot of stress. The holidays have a way of reminding us of these changes, and sometimes we can start to feel a little down, but it’s important not to feel ashamed or embarrassed about how you’re feeling.

Countless studies have shown your mental and emotional state can greatly affect your physical health. To be healthier and happier, start taking steps to manage emotional stress so you can better handle life’s changes.

accept there are things you can’t controlIt’s easy to romanticize the past and wish you could just go back to “the good old days.” But don’t allow yourself to get wrapped up in something that’s out of your power. Instead of comparing this holiday to holidays of the past, try to enjoy the moment and don’t compare it to how things used to be.

keep a positive attitude Easier said than done, right? It might be a struggle at first, but it is important to your health. A recent Boston University studyrevealed seniors with a positive attitude recover better from surgeries than those with a negative outlook. Being an optimist will make it easier to overcome life’s challenges.

Get and stay socially connected Remember, your mental and emotional health are just as important as your physical health. Try volunteering or doing something nice for others. Helping out can create a sense of purpose and lead to greater happiness. For more information about volunteering, see the story on the left.

Improving your health and changing your habits isn’t easy. Make sure to monitor your stress level and share it with your doctor. Ask for his or her suggestions to get and stay mentally and emotionally fit.

To find local volunteering opportunities near you,

visit Volunteer Wisconsin at volunteerwisconsin.org

or call 715-221-8406.

A Holiday Helping Hand

D id you know studies show that people who understand health instructions make fewer mistakes when they

take their medicine or prepare for a medical procedure? It’s true. Being informed can help you manage a chronic health condition more effectively. Plus, being educated about your condition can save you money. According to the National Patient Safety Foundation, annual health care costs are four times higher for people with low health literacy.

Communication with your doctor is important. And, many health care professionals recommend Ask Me 3™, a patient education program designed to promote communication and improve health outcomes. The program

encourages patients to understand the answers to three questions.

1. What is my main problem?2. What do I need to do?3. Why is it important for me to do this?

You can ask questions when:• Youseeadoctor,nurseorpharmacist.• Youprepareforamedicaltestor procedure.• Yougetyourmedicine.

Make sure to ask these three questions next time you discuss your care with your doctor. It can help you be better informed and understand what you need to do to take care of your health.

Good Questions for Your Good Health


what’s that?

in 2014, Network Health will offer the following new supplemental benefits to Medicare Advantage members. If you have a health condition described

below, these benefits can help you manage your condition.

Below is an overview of each benefit. For more information, call your health care concierge.

If you have or are at risk for cardiovascular disease, our Courage Program can give you the tools you need to prevent heart attacks and reduce your risk for chronic heart disease. Using a personalized team approach, the 12-month program can lead you to a better quality of life, by helping you to control risk factors, improve your exercise habits and nutrition and set health goals. The program includes six in-person visits, and is available at Mercy Medical Center and St. Elizabeth Hospital’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Departments.

We’ll also be offering a home telemonitoring benefit. If you’re diagnosed with heart failure, this benefit is

designed to help. It includes telephone-based monitoring and education from nurses trained in the management of heart failure. The goal is to keep an eye on and manage symptoms, watch for early signs that heart failure is worsening, and to help turn those cases around so a crisis is avoided. This daily monitoring has shown to significantly reduce hospital admissions and the need for emergency care.

If you’re diagnosed with peripheral artery disease (or PAD), and you’ve had pain keeping you from walking and being active, you’ll have a rehabilitation benefit available to you that includes supervised exercise three times a week for 12 weeks. The benefit is based on medical research proving this exercise schedule can lead to significant improvements in activity and reduced pain. We’ll be working with providers to offer this program with the appropriate exercise guidelines and schedule.

an estimated 79 million Americans have prediabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. While that number is shockingly high, there is good news—prediabetes can be treated

or even reversed.

Unfortunately, prediabetes doesn’t always have symptoms, so millions of Americans don’t know they have it. That’s why it is so important to know the risk factors and steps you can take to prevent the development of Type 2 diabetes.

What is prediabetes?Prediabetes is when someone’s blood sugar is higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be classified as Type 2 diabetes.

what are the risk factors for prediabetes?• Being overweight or obese• Having a family history of Type 2 diabetes• A family heritage of African American, American Indian, Asian-American, Pacific Islander or Hispanic/Latino• Having gestational diabetes or giving birth to at least one baby weighing more than 9 pounds• High blood pressure• Being physically active less than three times per week

Many people believe they are safe and don’t need to worry when they are “borderline” or just have a “touch” of diabetes. But, studies show prediabetes causes some long-term damage, particularly to the heart and vascular system. The good news is prediabetes doesn’t mean developing Type 2 diabetes is inevitable. And, with enough determination, you may even be able to return your blood glucose levels back to a healthy range.

How can i lower my risk for developing type 2 diabetes?•Visityourdoctorregularly – Schedule and attend regular check-ups with your doctor. Express your concerns about prediabetes and ask for information about preventing Type 2 diabetes.•Knowyournumbers – At the very least, this includes knowing your blood sugar (glucose), blood pressure, waist line, weight and cholesterol. Take advantage of an annual health risk assessment, which many companies offer. If this is not available, discuss details with your doctor.•Makehealthyfoodchoices– Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, drink plenty of water and watch your portion sizes.•Exercise– It doesn’t mean you have to hit the gym seven days a week. Find simple ways to fit exercise into your lifestyle, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, lifting weights or doing yoga in your home. If possible, try to exercise with a friend or loved one so you’re able to stay better motivated.•Loseweight – Losing just 5-7 percent of your current weight is a huge step in the right direction. Speak with your doctor to get ideas on safe weight-loss options that will work best for you.

If you would like to learn more about prediabetes and what you can do to prevent Type 2 diabetes, visit the American Diabetes Association’s website at www.diabetes.org.

new Benefits for Better Health

Protect Your Health—How to Stop Diabetes

in Its Tracks

A circulatory problem in which arteries narrow and blood flow to limbs is reduced.

Peripheral Artery Disease

HEALTH OR WELLNESS OR PREVENTION INFORMATION

1570 Midway Place, Menasha, WI 54952

Thank you to all our members who attended a

Network Health Member Appreciation Event. We

love the month of October because it means

meeting members from all

over northeast Wisconsin.

We enjoy holding these

events

and are glad you like coming

to learn more about your

benefits, get your flu

shot, see a movie and

eat some popcorn. We

hope to see you again

next year.

- Jeanne Skinner

K A t h y w I C h m A n

Q: how does kathy spend her free time?a: “I spend almost all of my free time with my family.” Kathy and her husband Mike have been married for 25 years, and she refers to him as her best friend. She calls herself lucky because Mike does nearly all of the cooking. They have two daughters—17-year-old Amelia and 16-year-old Maria. The girls attend Kimberly High School where Amelia is a varsity cheerleader. Kathy also spends a lot of time visiting her parents in Peshtigo, WI. She doesn’t mind making the drive, but she can’t leave without bringing Onyx, her 188-pound Great Dane who mistakenly thinks he’s a lap dog.

Q: what is kathy’s favorite holiday tradition? a: “That would have to be Christmas tree chopping.” Every year Kathy and her family drive up to the Northwoods with her brother’s family to find the perfect tree. For only $25, she can cut down any tree she wants, no matter how tall. And, since she loves big Christmas trees, it’s a pretty good deal. After, they all go back to her brother’s house where they warm up, eat chili and watch National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.

MeetKathyWichmantohelpyougettoknowyourhealthcareconciergealittlebitbetter,watchforafeatureonadifferentconciergeineveryissueofournewsletter.

“

“

this company really believes in helping people. – Kathy Wichman, Health Care Concierge

t Network Health, we know how confusing Medicare insurance can be. That’s why we think it’s important every member has one person they can turn to for answers. People like Kathy Wichman, who have a passion for helping people, can make all the difference.

Q: how did kathy begin her career as a health care concierge?a: Kathy recently celebrated her one-year anniversary with Network Health. Before working as a concierge, she worked part-time in the insurance industry for 10 years. Now that her daughters are a little older, she enjoys the full-time opportunity at Network Health.

Q: what does kathy enjoy most about her job?a: “My members.” Kathy loves spending time talking to and getting to know her members on a personal level. She says,“They have such interesting lives, I love hearing about their travels and their stories. The leadership at Network Health really encourages you to take the time to listen, and that’s my favorite part of the job.”

Q: are there any challenges as a health care concierge?a: “I think the biggest challenge is staying within the Medicare guidelines. Sometimes you have to tell a member what they don’t want to hear, and you just wish you could do something to change the rules.”

Q: how is network health different from the other places you’ve worked?a: “This company really believes in helping people, and it has a family-like atmosphere.” Kathy explains when she worked at other

insurance companies, she was never encouraged to take the time to get to know members—that’s something very unique to Network Health.

kathy and her husband mike.

Amelia and Maria Wichman

The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. For more information, contact the plan. Benefits, formulary, pharmacy network, premium and/or copayments/coinsurance may change January 1 of each year. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply.

concierge winter 2013

Documents