/PRNewswire/ -- According to Genworth's 2011 Cost of Care Survey, assisted living cost inflation in Georgia is being outpaced by national cost increases. Overall, the cost of long term care services in Georgia is well below national levels.
The median hourly rate to receive care in the home, Americans' preferred long term care setting, is $17.50 an hour in Georgia for home health aide services and $19 per hour nationally. The cost for this type of care has increased 1.5 percent a year over the past six years in Georgia, and 1.4 percent nationally during this same period.
The cost for a private nursing home room in Georgia has risen 4.4 percent annually over the past six years, and in line with the national rate. The median annual rate in Georgia for a private nursing home room is $63,875 per year, less than the national rate of $77,745 per year.
Nationally, the median annual cost of long term care in an assisted living facility is $39,135, an increase of 6.0 percent annually over the past six years. In Georgia, the annual cost of assisted living care is $28,800 and costs have risen 0.7 percent per year over the same time period.
Click here for an interactive map of long term care costs in 15 regions across Georgia, as well as nationally.
Knowing Local Care Costs for Productive LTC Discussions
"Understanding local caregiving expenses is an essential first step for families faced with rising care costs," said Buck Stinson, president, U.S. Life Insurance Products at Genworth. "Genworth's Cost of Care Survey arms consumers with the knowledge to have informed conversations, whether they are speaking with a family member, a care provider or financial professional, about how they might realistically pay for care."
Now in its 8th year, Genworth's Cost of Care Survey not only provides Georgia residents with national and local long term care cost data, but also information on cost inflation over time. Armed with this information, consumers and their advisors can:
* Develop a comprehensive financial plan to cover anticipated future long term care costs
* Conduct an informed discussion with family members to address future long term care needs and preferences
* Negotiate more effectively with providers of long term care services
Negotiating With Care Providers: It Never Hurts to Ask
Some consumers may be surprised to learn that they have the power to negotiate with care providers to help contain costs. Care providers, particularly assisted living facilities and home care agencies, often face stiff competition in their local markets. Consumers should feel comfortable addressing the issue of costs, and the opportunity to lower them, when discussing care options with a provider of long term care services. Genworth's Cost of Care Survey provides localized cost data that empowers families to confidently discuss care costs and options with service providers.
Know What to Ask: Tips for Reducing Caregiving Costs
While nursing homes generally do not discount their rates because they are strongly influenced by the effect of Medicare/Medicaid on their overall business plans, assisted living facilities and home care providers are more apt to do so. Tips on where to start when negotiating with a long term care provider include:
* Know Local Costs: Genworth's Cost of Care Map provides the median cost of long term care across the U.S., including 15 regions in Georgia, to help consumers plan for the potential costs associated with the various types of long term care available in their preferred location and setting.
* Fee Waivers: Assisted living facilities often charge a one-time fee when a client first moves in. If the facility is in a competitive market, or has a surplus of vacant units, they may discount or waive this fee (or offer other discounts such as free rent for a period of time).
* Special Rates : Facilities will sometimes have a special rate if residents move in at the first of the month or during a time that is known to have higher vacancy rates.
* Vacancy Rates : Facilities may allow a resident to choose a more expensive room, at a lower price, if vacancies are currently high.
* Lower Hourly Rates: Home care agencies may lower their hourly rate if the services needed are easy to staff and long term, such as a weekday schedule that is predicted to last several months.
* Shop Around: If a home care agency's fees are at the high end of the local range, they may lower rates if they know the client is interviewing several agencies and cost is an important factor. Let care providers know if a lower rate has been quoted elsewhere for the same services.
* Premium Waivers: Agencies usually charge a premium for weekend services. For a client that also engages services for a significant amount of weekday hours, the agency may waive this premium.
* Ask for an Upgrade: Nursing homes generally do not discount their rates, however, certain extra amenities, or a private room upgrade, may be available under certain circumstances.
It is important to note that most of these price concessions are based on the availability of staff, or residential units, which is a factor that fluctuates often for some businesses. Contacting several providers before making a final decision offers the best chance of securing safe, appropriate services at a reasonable rate.
"While consumers should seek out quality and value when shopping for long term care, it is crucial that they have a financial plan in place to pay for long term care," said Stinson. "The cost of long term care remains one of the biggest risks to one's retirement security, especially with ever-increasing healthcare costs."
For consumers interested in learning more about the cost of care in their local market, Genworth offers an interactive map of long term care costs in 437 regions across all 50 states, including 15 regions in Georgia, at www.Genworth.com/CostofCare. The site offers a range of educational tools that help consumers compare costs across geographies, project future costs and share comparisons and calculations with family, friends or a financial professional.
Additional Resources:
* Genworth's "Let's Talk" campaign was developed to help families initiate conversations about long term care preferences, options, and strategies.
* Genworth Celebrates Caregivers Facebook Page: Caregivers can have their questions about caregiving challenges answered by a professional care advocate.
* An interactive Cost of Care press release containing downloadable content is available at:
http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/genworthfinancial/49612.
About Genworth's 2011 Cost of Care Survey
Genworth's Cost of Care Survey, is the most comprehensive study of its kind, covering nearly 15,500 long term care providers nationwide. The survey includes 437 regions which cover all Metropolitan Statistical Areas defined for the 2010 U.S. census. Genworth annually surveys the cost of long term care across the U.S. to help Americans plan for the potential costs associated with the various types of care available in their preferred location and setting. CareScout®, part of the Genworth Financial family of companies, has conducted the survey since 2004. Located in Waltham, Massachusetts, CareScout has specialized in helping families find long term care providers nationwide since 1997. Genworth's 2011 Cost of Care Survey was conducted during January, February and March 2011.
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Showing posts with label tips. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tips. Show all posts
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Friday, July 23, 2010
Six Key Tips for Caregivers Navigating the System on Behalf of Their Parents, Grandparents and Others
/PRNewswire/ -- According to the National Alliance for Caregiving, more than 65 million people in the United States serve as informal caregivers, typically for family members, which equates to more than one out of every four people serving as unpaid caregivers.
A caregiver is someone who provides assistance to another person who is ill, disabled or needs help with daily activities. It's a role that can be physically and emotionally draining. The health care system doesn't make it any easier. Fortunately, there are a few tips caregivers can follow to better manage their loved one's health care, particularly when it comes to people with Medicare, according to Krista Bowers, senior vice president of senior products at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia's parent company.
"At Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGA), we hear regularly from caregivers who are learning how to navigate the system on behalf of their parents, grandparents and others," said Monye Connolly, President, BCBSGA. "There are some themes that are common among them."
Gathering Information
The first step in helping to manage care for a loved one is gathering as much information as possible about their health and health benefits. Some items caregivers might want to gather include the following:
-- Medicare card (if eligible)
-- Health plan membership card
-- A list of doctors, including specialists
-- A list of medicines and dosages
-- Information about the person's medical conditions both treated and
untreated.
This is basically creating a "personal health record." A loved one might be reluctant to share this information at first. Experts recommend that caregivers remain patient. They can explain that the information is needed to advocate on their behalf with their doctors, hospitals and insurance companies.
Getting Permission
Most people have heard of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). HIPAA is an important law for protecting patient privacy. However, it can be an obstacle for caregivers.
"People are sometimes surprised to learn that companies like Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia cannot readily disclose a person's health information, even to their own spouse or child," said Connolly. "That's why it's so critical for caregivers to file the proper paperwork with their loved one's health benefits provider."
Caregivers can access a loved one's health information in a number of ways. One way is with a "durable power of attorney," which can be established with the assistance of an attorney. Another way is with an "Authorization to Disclose Personal Health Information," which is available from a health benefits company. With the disclosure form, the member can authorize someone else to see their health care information, while specifying just how much information that person can see. Beneficiaries also can designate someone to participate on their behalf in Medicare appeals and grievances by filling out an "Appointment of Representative" form.
These forms are returned to the health benefits company where they are kept on file. When they are on file, designees can serve as the member's representative on health benefits, including determinations, exceptions, and appeals and grievances. Anybody can serve as a designee, including a family member or friend. However, the member can revoke these designations, in writing, whenever they see fit.
Enrolling in a Chronic Disease Program
Some Medicare beneficiaries suffer from chronic diseases, such as cancer, stroke, multiple sclerosis, dementia, diabetes, end stage renal disease or Alzheimer's disease. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, eight out of 10 Americans age 65 or older are living with some chronic illness. Those enrolled in a Medicare plan may have access to free programs to help them manage their diseases. Many times, these programs are administered by nurses or other licensed personnel. The goal is to help prevent acute episodes through better disease management. Many plans even follow-up with members after their hospitalization.
"These programs are above and beyond those offered by Original Medicare," Bowers explained. "It's important for caregivers to know about them and encourage their loved ones to participate. They may want to get a copy of a member's explanation of coverage from their insurer to find out what's available."
Knowing Your Rights
Once the disclosure/authorization paperwork has been filed, caregivers can speak to a customer care agent on a beneficiary's behalf as well as access the beneficiary's information online, including claims history, provider network and drug formularies.
If a beneficiary ever disagrees with any Medicare decision, including a denial, they have the right to appeal it. For more information about appeals, visit http://www.medicare.gov/ to get a free copy of "Your Rights and Protections."
Investigating 'Extra Help'
As a caregiver, it's also important to know about "extra help" that is available to low-income people with a Medicare prescription drug plan through the Social Security office. This "extra help" includes assistance with monthly prescription drug premiums, annual deductibles and prescription copayments. For information about eligibility for this program, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/extrahelp.
Even if your loved one doesn't qualify for extra help from Social Security, there are a myriad of other resources that might be available to them at the state and community levels. The Web site www.benefitscheckuprx.org has compiled information about these resources in one convenient online location. The site, which counts Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia among its sponsors, tracks more than 1,550 benefit programs throughout all 50 states and the District of Columbia. It has identified more than $7.6 billion in benefits for those in need since being launched in 2001.
Caring for Yourself
The final tip for caregivers, and perhaps the most important, is for them to take care of themselves, including getting enough sleep, going for a walk, taking an occasional day off and maintaining a sense of humor. After all, caregivers can't possibly take care of anyone else until they first take care of themselves.
According to the Alzheimer's Association, research shows that caregivers face an increased risk of developing depression. It's natural to grieve about a loved one's disease. However, if sadness persists to the extent that it prevents decision making, interrupts daily living, and discourages participation in normal activities, then it may be time to get some help. Primary care physicians may offer help, including referrals to other resources. Caregivers with access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) can find them useful.
"Caregivers need to know that there's no shame in asking for help," said Connolly.
For more information about care giving and Medicare, including helpful forms, please visit www.medicare.gov/caregivers.
-----
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A caregiver is someone who provides assistance to another person who is ill, disabled or needs help with daily activities. It's a role that can be physically and emotionally draining. The health care system doesn't make it any easier. Fortunately, there are a few tips caregivers can follow to better manage their loved one's health care, particularly when it comes to people with Medicare, according to Krista Bowers, senior vice president of senior products at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia's parent company.
"At Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGA), we hear regularly from caregivers who are learning how to navigate the system on behalf of their parents, grandparents and others," said Monye Connolly, President, BCBSGA. "There are some themes that are common among them."
Gathering Information
The first step in helping to manage care for a loved one is gathering as much information as possible about their health and health benefits. Some items caregivers might want to gather include the following:
-- Medicare card (if eligible)
-- Health plan membership card
-- A list of doctors, including specialists
-- A list of medicines and dosages
-- Information about the person's medical conditions both treated and
untreated.
This is basically creating a "personal health record." A loved one might be reluctant to share this information at first. Experts recommend that caregivers remain patient. They can explain that the information is needed to advocate on their behalf with their doctors, hospitals and insurance companies.
Getting Permission
Most people have heard of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). HIPAA is an important law for protecting patient privacy. However, it can be an obstacle for caregivers.
"People are sometimes surprised to learn that companies like Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia cannot readily disclose a person's health information, even to their own spouse or child," said Connolly. "That's why it's so critical for caregivers to file the proper paperwork with their loved one's health benefits provider."
Caregivers can access a loved one's health information in a number of ways. One way is with a "durable power of attorney," which can be established with the assistance of an attorney. Another way is with an "Authorization to Disclose Personal Health Information," which is available from a health benefits company. With the disclosure form, the member can authorize someone else to see their health care information, while specifying just how much information that person can see. Beneficiaries also can designate someone to participate on their behalf in Medicare appeals and grievances by filling out an "Appointment of Representative" form.
These forms are returned to the health benefits company where they are kept on file. When they are on file, designees can serve as the member's representative on health benefits, including determinations, exceptions, and appeals and grievances. Anybody can serve as a designee, including a family member or friend. However, the member can revoke these designations, in writing, whenever they see fit.
Enrolling in a Chronic Disease Program
Some Medicare beneficiaries suffer from chronic diseases, such as cancer, stroke, multiple sclerosis, dementia, diabetes, end stage renal disease or Alzheimer's disease. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, eight out of 10 Americans age 65 or older are living with some chronic illness. Those enrolled in a Medicare plan may have access to free programs to help them manage their diseases. Many times, these programs are administered by nurses or other licensed personnel. The goal is to help prevent acute episodes through better disease management. Many plans even follow-up with members after their hospitalization.
"These programs are above and beyond those offered by Original Medicare," Bowers explained. "It's important for caregivers to know about them and encourage their loved ones to participate. They may want to get a copy of a member's explanation of coverage from their insurer to find out what's available."
Knowing Your Rights
Once the disclosure/authorization paperwork has been filed, caregivers can speak to a customer care agent on a beneficiary's behalf as well as access the beneficiary's information online, including claims history, provider network and drug formularies.
If a beneficiary ever disagrees with any Medicare decision, including a denial, they have the right to appeal it. For more information about appeals, visit http://www.medicare.gov/ to get a free copy of "Your Rights and Protections."
Investigating 'Extra Help'
As a caregiver, it's also important to know about "extra help" that is available to low-income people with a Medicare prescription drug plan through the Social Security office. This "extra help" includes assistance with monthly prescription drug premiums, annual deductibles and prescription copayments. For information about eligibility for this program, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/extrahelp.
Even if your loved one doesn't qualify for extra help from Social Security, there are a myriad of other resources that might be available to them at the state and community levels. The Web site www.benefitscheckuprx.org has compiled information about these resources in one convenient online location. The site, which counts Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia among its sponsors, tracks more than 1,550 benefit programs throughout all 50 states and the District of Columbia. It has identified more than $7.6 billion in benefits for those in need since being launched in 2001.
Caring for Yourself
The final tip for caregivers, and perhaps the most important, is for them to take care of themselves, including getting enough sleep, going for a walk, taking an occasional day off and maintaining a sense of humor. After all, caregivers can't possibly take care of anyone else until they first take care of themselves.
According to the Alzheimer's Association, research shows that caregivers face an increased risk of developing depression. It's natural to grieve about a loved one's disease. However, if sadness persists to the extent that it prevents decision making, interrupts daily living, and discourages participation in normal activities, then it may be time to get some help. Primary care physicians may offer help, including referrals to other resources. Caregivers with access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) can find them useful.
"Caregivers need to know that there's no shame in asking for help," said Connolly.
For more information about care giving and Medicare, including helpful forms, please visit www.medicare.gov/caregivers.
-----
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Monday, January 04, 2010
Maximize Your Insurance Dollars in 2010; Avoid the Five Biggest Insurance Mistakes
/PRNewswire/ -- As the new year begins many consumers will be making resolutions, including about saving money. There are several ways to save money on insurance, but consumers should be careful about the ways in which they cut their insurance costs, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).
"Money is tight right now and many people are looking for ways to cut costs," said Jeanne M. Salvatore, senior vice president and consumer spokesperson for the I.I.I. "However, there are smart ways that savvy consumers can save on their home and auto insurance, and there are mistakes that can result in being dangerously underinsured."
Following are the five biggest insurance mistakes consumers should avoid:
1. Insuring a home for its real estate value rather than for the cost of
rebuilding. When real estate prices go down, some homeowners may think
they can reduce the amount of insurance on their home. But insurance is
designed to cover the cost of rebuilding, not the sales price of the
home. You should make sure that you have enough coverage to completely
rebuild your home and replace your belongings. A better way to save:
Raise your deductible. An increase from $500 to $1,000 could save up to
25 percent on your premium payments.
2. Selecting an insurance company by price alone. It is important to
choose a company with competitive prices, but also one that is
financially sound and provides good customer service. A better way to
save: Check the financial health of a company with independent rating
agencies and ask friends and family for recommendations. You should
select an insurance company that will respond to your needs and handle
claims fairly and efficiently.
3. Dropping flood insurance. Damage from flooding is not covered under
standard homeowners and renters insurance policies. Coverage is
available from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), as well as
from some private insurance companies. Many homeowners are unaware they
are at risk for flooding, but in fact 25 percent of all flood losses
occur in low risk areas. A better way to save: Before purchasing a
home, check with the NFIP to check whether it is in a flood zone; if
so, consider a less risky area. If you are already living in a flood
zone area, look at mitigation efforts that can reduce your risk of
flood damage and consider purchasing flood insurance.
4. Only purchasing the legally required amount of liability for your car.
In today's litigious society, buying only the minimum amount of
liability means you are likely to pay more out-of-pocket -- and those
costs may be steep. A better way to save: Consider dropping collision
and/or comprehensive coverage on older cars worth less than $1,000. The
insurance industry and consumer groups generally recommend a minimum of
$100,000 of bodily injury protection per person and $300,000 per
accident.
5. Neglecting to buy renters insurance. A renters policy covers your
possessions and additional living expenses if you have to move out due
to a disaster. Equally important, it provides liability protection in
the event someone is injured in your home and decides to sue. A better
way to save: Look into multi-policy discounts. Buying several policies
with the same insurer, such as renters, auto and life will generally
provide savings.
"By taking a few simple steps, it is possible to cut costs and still be protected should disaster strike," pointed out Salvatore. "When money is tight, it extremely important to be financially protected with the right amount and type of insurance.
-----
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"Money is tight right now and many people are looking for ways to cut costs," said Jeanne M. Salvatore, senior vice president and consumer spokesperson for the I.I.I. "However, there are smart ways that savvy consumers can save on their home and auto insurance, and there are mistakes that can result in being dangerously underinsured."
Following are the five biggest insurance mistakes consumers should avoid:
1. Insuring a home for its real estate value rather than for the cost of
rebuilding. When real estate prices go down, some homeowners may think
they can reduce the amount of insurance on their home. But insurance is
designed to cover the cost of rebuilding, not the sales price of the
home. You should make sure that you have enough coverage to completely
rebuild your home and replace your belongings. A better way to save:
Raise your deductible. An increase from $500 to $1,000 could save up to
25 percent on your premium payments.
2. Selecting an insurance company by price alone. It is important to
choose a company with competitive prices, but also one that is
financially sound and provides good customer service. A better way to
save: Check the financial health of a company with independent rating
agencies and ask friends and family for recommendations. You should
select an insurance company that will respond to your needs and handle
claims fairly and efficiently.
3. Dropping flood insurance. Damage from flooding is not covered under
standard homeowners and renters insurance policies. Coverage is
available from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), as well as
from some private insurance companies. Many homeowners are unaware they
are at risk for flooding, but in fact 25 percent of all flood losses
occur in low risk areas. A better way to save: Before purchasing a
home, check with the NFIP to check whether it is in a flood zone; if
so, consider a less risky area. If you are already living in a flood
zone area, look at mitigation efforts that can reduce your risk of
flood damage and consider purchasing flood insurance.
4. Only purchasing the legally required amount of liability for your car.
In today's litigious society, buying only the minimum amount of
liability means you are likely to pay more out-of-pocket -- and those
costs may be steep. A better way to save: Consider dropping collision
and/or comprehensive coverage on older cars worth less than $1,000. The
insurance industry and consumer groups generally recommend a minimum of
$100,000 of bodily injury protection per person and $300,000 per
accident.
5. Neglecting to buy renters insurance. A renters policy covers your
possessions and additional living expenses if you have to move out due
to a disaster. Equally important, it provides liability protection in
the event someone is injured in your home and decides to sue. A better
way to save: Look into multi-policy discounts. Buying several policies
with the same insurer, such as renters, auto and life will generally
provide savings.
"By taking a few simple steps, it is possible to cut costs and still be protected should disaster strike," pointed out Salvatore. "When money is tight, it extremely important to be financially protected with the right amount and type of insurance.
-----
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Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Selecting Medicare Coverage: Four Considerations to Help Seniors Choose
/PRNewswire/ -- Open enrollment, the six-week period during which seniors can select healthcare coverage for 2010, begins Nov. 15. Health plans have begun sharing their costs and coverage, but making a choice can be a daunting task. Here are four considerations to help Medicare-eligible seniors select which Medicare coverage best meets their individual needs:
1. Understand the A, B, C and Ds of Medicare. There are four primary parts
to Medicare. Parts A and B cover hospital and medical expenses,
respectively. Parts C and D provide benefit and prescription drug
coverage through health insurance companies that are approved by
Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans include all of the coverage offered
by Parts A and B and can include prescription drug coverage under Part
D.
2. Compare costs. Premiums can range for $0 to hundreds of dollars per
month, depending upon the type of organization (nonprofit or
for-profit) and the type of coverage. Total plan costs include
premiums, co-payments and deductibles for everything from preventive
care to hospitalization.
3. Compare benefits and doctors. Does the plan have a large network of
doctors and specialists for you to choose from? Is your doctor and
preferred hospital in that network? Does the plan cover your
prescription medications?
4. Compare quality. Call the customer service number for the plans you're
considering. Does a live person answer the phone? Are they friendly,
helpful and knowledgeable? Does the plan offer value-added programs
that help you maintain or improve your health and independence? Does
the plan offer services to help your loved ones take care of you if
needed? Will the plan coordinate your care between doctors and
specialists?
Selecting Medicare coverage is an important decision, especially since Medicare rules indicate that members must maintain the coverage they've chosen for an entire year. Seniors currently enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans will soon receive letters from their health plans explaining any changes in coverage for 2010. "We recommend that people read this letter thoroughly to avoid any surprises in the coming year," said Tom Lescault, president of SCAN Health Plan Arizona. "Changes in government funding has forced many health plans to reduce benefits or increase costs. People need to make sure they are able to make informed decisions during open enrollment."
As part of an ongoing commitment to improving the lives of seniors, SCAN Health Plan Arizona is an exclusive sponsor of "Healthy Tips for Successful Aging" with ABC 15. Each week, the station airs 30-second health tips provided by SCAN. The health plan also is the exclusive studio sponsor for KOY radio and co-hosts "Senior Focus," a broadcast dedicated to senior-related issues.
-----
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1. Understand the A, B, C and Ds of Medicare. There are four primary parts
to Medicare. Parts A and B cover hospital and medical expenses,
respectively. Parts C and D provide benefit and prescription drug
coverage through health insurance companies that are approved by
Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans include all of the coverage offered
by Parts A and B and can include prescription drug coverage under Part
D.
2. Compare costs. Premiums can range for $0 to hundreds of dollars per
month, depending upon the type of organization (nonprofit or
for-profit) and the type of coverage. Total plan costs include
premiums, co-payments and deductibles for everything from preventive
care to hospitalization.
3. Compare benefits and doctors. Does the plan have a large network of
doctors and specialists for you to choose from? Is your doctor and
preferred hospital in that network? Does the plan cover your
prescription medications?
4. Compare quality. Call the customer service number for the plans you're
considering. Does a live person answer the phone? Are they friendly,
helpful and knowledgeable? Does the plan offer value-added programs
that help you maintain or improve your health and independence? Does
the plan offer services to help your loved ones take care of you if
needed? Will the plan coordinate your care between doctors and
specialists?
Selecting Medicare coverage is an important decision, especially since Medicare rules indicate that members must maintain the coverage they've chosen for an entire year. Seniors currently enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans will soon receive letters from their health plans explaining any changes in coverage for 2010. "We recommend that people read this letter thoroughly to avoid any surprises in the coming year," said Tom Lescault, president of SCAN Health Plan Arizona. "Changes in government funding has forced many health plans to reduce benefits or increase costs. People need to make sure they are able to make informed decisions during open enrollment."
As part of an ongoing commitment to improving the lives of seniors, SCAN Health Plan Arizona is an exclusive sponsor of "Healthy Tips for Successful Aging" with ABC 15. Each week, the station airs 30-second health tips provided by SCAN. The health plan also is the exclusive studio sponsor for KOY radio and co-hosts "Senior Focus," a broadcast dedicated to senior-related issues.
-----
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