Thanksgiving is Family Health History Day!

This Thanksgiving, don't just focus your mealtime conversation on turkey, football, and enticing Black Friday sales.  Don't skip talking about the fun stuff--but make time to talk about your health history, too.

The United States Surgeon General, Dr. Regina Benjamin, has declared this Thanksgiving the nation's 8th annual "Family Health History Day," where families can share information to gather their health history in one place.  In trying to prevent disease and disability, it's a good idea to learn about what health conditions exist in our families that may put us at increased risk for diseases like cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and more. The "My Family Health Portrait" website makes gathering a family health history a simple task.

• Where can I find the "My Family Health Portrait" site?  Access this secure website by clicking: https://familyhistory.hhs.gov/.
• Is it free to use?  Yes--totally free!  Plus, it only takes about 20 minutes to use.
• How do I use it?  Visit the website and answer the brief set of questions that it asks about you, your health conditions, and your family.  It will then create a personalized "family health tree" that you can save to your computer.
• Can my family use it, too?  Absolutely!  Once you've created your "family health tree," you can add your family's health information in anytime--and your family can update their information on the saved file on your computer, too.
• Does my health information stay private?  Yes.  The website does not retain any of the information/answers you've given it once the Family Health Tree file is created and saved to your computer.
• What's the value of using the "My Family Health Portrait" website?  It helps you create a useful collection of information that you can give your doctor, who can then--based on this health history--recommend specific tests or treatment plans to delay or prevent certain diseases and conditions.  (Don't currently have a doctor?  An advocacy service like Health Advocate or Health Proponent can help you find a local, in-network primary care physician for you.  Additionally, if you use Health Advocate's services, you may have access to a wellness plan that allows you to keep a personal health record, too.)

Health Advocate wishes you and your family a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!

November is National Family Caregivers Month

It's National Family Caregivers Month, which The National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) says is a time to thank, support, empower and educate family caregivers.  The NFCA hopes that during the month of November, they can increase support of family caregivers, raise awareness of the issues close to the hearts of family caregivers, celebrate the efforts made by family caregivers, and provide them with helpful resources.

NFCA estimates that there are more than 65 million family caregivers in the United States.  Every day, they fulfill a vital role on the care team of a loved one--they're extremely familiar with the loved one's medication regimen, dietary needs, exercise regimen, and more.

Below, check out some resources available to caregivers.  These resources can not only help them care for their loved ones better, but also help caregivers care for themselves, too.

•    The NFCA's Caregiving Resources page.  Check out their comprehensive list of resources, including tips and tools, agencies and organizations that can help, and useful publications.
•    Motivational and helpful messages to live by, compiled by NFCA.  This page offers advice on speaking up for your rights, asking for help, and more.
•    "Simple comforts for loved ones in the hospital."  If you are caring for a loved one in the hospital, this article offers some easy, creative ideas to keep the patient comfortable.
•    "Top 10 tips for choosing an assisted living facility."  This article gives helpful pointers on how to approach finding the best assisted living home for your loved one.
•    "Tips on preventing the abuse of elderly people."  If the loved one you are caring for is elderly, you may want to make sure that nobody is taking advantage of them.  This article will help you know what to watch for and when to step in if you believe someone is taking advantage of an elderly loved one.
•    "Self-care for the caregiver."  Sometimes caregivers can be so focused on caring for their loved one that they forget to take time to care for themselves.  This article focuses on ways that caregivers can ensure they are as healthy, balanced, and happy as possible during caregiving.
•    Health Advocate’s Caregiving resources, including publications, checklists, and more.

If you have access to an advocacy service, such as Health Advocate, through your employer, they can also be a valuable resource for help with caregiving (people who don't have access to an employer-based advocacy program can reach out to a consumer advocacy program like Health Proponent).  An advocacy service can help connect you to medical providers--primary care physicians, mental health specialists and counselors, nutritionists, and others.  Advocates can take some of the responsibility off of caregivers by making doctor appointments, arranging transportation, researching care options, filling out paperwork, sorting out insurance issues, and more.  Additionally, if your employer offers an EAP program, it may be another source of resources and information on how you can keep your life balanced while caring for a loved one.

Resources for help today, during The Great American Smokeout, and any day you decide to quit smoking

Today is The Great American Smokeout, a day when all smokers are encouraged to abstain from cigarettes for 24 hours.  Millions of Americans are participating, and it’s simple for you to participate, too.  All you have to do is not smoke during the 24 hours of the Smokeout.  This helps you understand that you can indeed quit smoking for a day—and help you learn that you’re not alone in your quest to stop smoking.  The Great American Smokeout may even help jump-start your efforts to permanently quit smoking—but even if it doesn’t, you’ll at least have experienced quitting for a day.

If you are interested in quitting smoking—whether for a day or permanently--below is a comprehensive list of resources that includes written information about tobacco cessation, online resources for help, smartphone apps, how to obtain individualized counseling, in-depth information about smoking cessation medications, and more.

Your employer
Your employer may be a great resource to help you quit smoking. Many employers offer tobacco cessation programs as part of the employee benefits package. One such program is Health Advocate’s Tobacco Cessation program. This 13-week program provides employees with unlimited one-on-one support from trained specialists. Check with your employer to find out if they offer Health Advocate’s Tobacco Cessation program or any other smoking cessation initiatives.  Also, ask your employer if they subsidize nicotine replacement therapies like nicotine gum or the nicotine patch (if they don't, check online--you may be able to find coupons to use on these products).



Your doctor
Mention to your doctor that you're interested in quitting smoking.  Your doctor can provide you with recommendations and resources that can help you quit.  (Don't have a doctor?  An advocacy service like Health Advocate or Health Proponent can help you find one who's in-network and local to you.)

Cancer.org
Click here for a ton of really cool resources, including a cigarette cost calculator (you may be shocked at how much money you’re spending on cigarettes over time), “desktop helpers” that can help you plan your quit day and deal with cravings, and more.

National Cancer Institute resources:
NCI Smoking Quitline at 1–877–44U–QUIT (1–877–448–7848) provides individualized counseling, printed information, and referrals to other sources.
View this NCI fact sheet, "Where To Get Help When You Decide To Quit Smoking": http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/tobacco/help-quitting

http://www.smokefree.gov/ is a Web site created by NCI’s Tobacco Control Research Branch; check out their Step-by-Step Quit Guide.
Get the Smokefree QuitGuide app for your smartphone: http://www.smokefree.gov/apps/

American Cancer Society
http://www.cancer.org/Healthy/StayAwayfromTobacco/GuidetoQuittingSmoking/index
Their website includes a guide to quitting smoking.
You can also call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345.

American Heart Association
http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/QuitSmoking/Quit-Smoking_UCM_001085_SubHomePage.jsp
1-800-AHA-USA1

BecomeAnEX.org
http://www.becomeanex.org/
This website features a free, online plan to help you quit smoking.

American Lung Association
http://www.lungusa.org/
1-800-LUNG-USA

Other resources:
"Help for Smokers and Other Tobacco Users" is a free booklet created by the US Department of Health and Human Services packed with tips on how to quit:
http://www.ahrq.gov/consumer/tobacco/helpsmokers.htm

"FDA 101: Smoking Cessation Products" is an article put out by the Food and Drug Administration that discusses the variety of approved products, both over-the-counter and prescription, that can help you quit smoking.
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm198176.htm

Has your child been abused? Here's what to do next

It isn't a fun topic to discuss, but unfortunately it's a necessary one: If your child has been abused, what do you do?  Hopefully you'll never have to deal with this type of situation, but if you ever do, it'll be an incredibly emotional time for you--so it's a good idea to understand now what your next steps should be rather than try to figure out what to do in the moment.

•    Call the authorities.  Abuse is a crime, and any abuse should be promptly reported to the authorities so that they can investigate.
•    Call your doctor.  It's important for the doctor to evaluate your child as soon as possible and take note of any signs of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.  Your doctor can also determine whether your child would benefit from counseling and can refer your child to a counselor who has experience in these matters.
•    No doctor?  Call your advocacy service.  If you have access to an advocacy company like Health Advocate through your employer, you can call them to have them help you find an in-network, local doctor who can quickly fit your child in for an appointment.  People who don't have access to an advocacy service as an employee benefit at their workplace can call Health Proponent, Health Advocate's consumer division, for help finding a doctor.
•    Be calm and reassuring.  You may feel angry, fearful, sad, or many other negative emotions during this trying time.  When you're around your child, though, do your best to remain calm.  Be sure to keep the lines of communication open with your child.  Ask your child if they want to talk, and let them know they can tell you anything without fear of being scolded or punished.  Ask your child if there's any way you can help them feel better.  If your child notices that you're angry or upset, reassure your child that you are not angry at them.

It's important for you to get the help you need during a situation like this, too.  It may also be a good idea for you to seek counseling in order for you to talk through some of your feelings in connection with this situation and seek advice on healthy ways to cope.  An advocacy service can also assist you in finding a counselor that can help you.  Also, you can turn to some helpful online resources for guidance and support during this difficult time.  Consider exploring Darkness to Light, Helpguide.org, the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, or RAINN (the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network).

Dermatologists' top tips for healthy skin

November is National Healthy Skin Month, so now is an ideal time to take a look at your skin care routine and ensure that you are making the healthiest choices for your skin.  The American Academy of Dermatology offers a variety of tips and resources to help you keep your skin as healthy as possible.

What are dermatologists' top tips for healthy skin?

• Don't....  Smoke or use tanning beds.  These things can negatively impact the health of your skin.  Also, don't pop pimples or bite your nails, as these actions can transfer bacteria into your skin or mouth, respectively.
• Do...  Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.
• Self-examine your skin.  Take note of any new or unusual-looking moles, spots, or lesions and have your doctor or dermatologist examine them.
• Always protect your skin from the sun.  Use sunscreen every day.  When you're outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and clothing that covers up your skin so that you can minimize your risk of sun damage.

What if I don't have health insurance?

• Be honest and open with your dermatologist.  Ask whether discounted bills are available for uninsured patients, and if you can't afford a prescribed medicine, be honest about it.  Your dermatologist may refer you to a local free clinic and/or may recommend that you seek assistance from one of several drug-assistance websites.
• Call your local hospital.  Many free health screenings are not widely promoted.  Call your local hospital and ask to speak to a social worker--social workers are familiar with when and where local free and low-cost screenings will be held. 
• Find local free screenings.  The American Academy of Dermatology offers free skin cancer screenings that are open to everyone.

How can I maintain a healthy skin care routine on a budget?

• Don't cut sunscreen from your budget.  Dermatologist recommend that you use sunscreen every day to fight against sun damage, which can cause wrinkles, age spots, and/or skin cancer.
• Use dual-function products.  Consider trying products like a sunscreen/moisturizer combo or a lip balm that contains sunscreen.
• Consider useful but inexpensive products.  You don't need to break the bank to have good skin care habits.  One tub of petroleum jelly, cost-effective and easily accessible at your local pharmacy or drugstore, can moisturize dry or cracked skin on the body, hands, or lips; help repair dry cuticles and peeling nails; prevent chafing when running or biking; and serve as a diaper ointment.
• Maximize your moisturizer.  In the winter, apply moisturizer as soon as you're done showering or bathing.  This helps lock the water into your skin for moisture that lasts.

Do you have questions or problems regarding your skin, hair or nails?  If so, you may want to consider visiting a dermatologist.  An advocacy service such as Health Advocate or Health Proponent can help you find a dermatologist who is in-network with your insurance plan and who is local to you, can help you decipher your insurance information so you understand what dermatological services and procedures are covered, help you obtain cost estimates of any treatments the dermatologist may suggest, and more.

Worried about big medical bills? Try these handy tips

As healthcare costs rise, many people are swamped with medical bills and other health expenses. While most have insurance, larger deductibles, copays and other costs can still add up to big bucks.

In a study conducted by the American Journal of Public Health, of the 83 percent of participants who had health insurance, nearly 27 percent of them said they had difficulty paying their medical bills.

Nowadays it’s crucial to be a smart and savvy healthcare shopper, especially in these tough economic times. What many don’t realize is that there are several ways to take control and lower your healthcare costs:

• Do your homework.  Costs for medical procedures can vary dramatically, depending on the facility where they are performed. You can research different hospitals and facilities to comparison-shop prices for procedures. Just reviewing and comparing costs is one important step in potentially saving money and making the best use of your healthcare dollar.
• Always stay in-network.  When possible, stick with a doctor under your insurance plan. Using an in-network provider will help you to avoid large out-of-pocket charges.
• Talk to your doctor.  Providers consider your financial status when recommending care. Let them know the costs are important to you. Discuss a payment plan with your physician. A whopping 61 percent of adults who asked their doctor for a discount got one.
• You got charged.  Insurance will not cover the entire cost of the medical procedure you received if the provider is not in your preferred network leaving you with large out-of-pocket expenses. Some providers will give you a lower rate if you pay in cash. You can also make arrangements with the billing department. They may discount what you owe or work with you to make monthly payment arrangements.
• Look out for errors.  According to Consumer Reports Health, 80 percent of medical bills have errors. Some common errors include: incorrect coding, wrong names, addresses, birth dates and social security numbers. Also make sure you are only being billed for the treatment you received.
• Don't give up.  Dispute any charges you think you should not have to pay. Work with the provider’s billing department until you come up with a resolution.
• Get a third party involved.  It doesn’t hurt to get help from a health advocate. They can help you talk to the insurance company and walk you through an appeal process if necessary.

The important thing to remember is to be an informed patient. If you find that you need help, you can always consult a Health Advocate Personal Health Advocate who can help you locate providers, negotiate on your behalf, identify errors on medical bills, compare costs for procedures, file an appeal (if warranted), and much more . If you are not a Health Advocate member, you can still get help. Just call and speak to an advocate through our direct-to-consumer division Health Proponent.

What is diabetes, and how can it be prevented and/or managed?

November is American Diabetes Month, a time when the American Diabetes Association focuses on communicating the seriousness of the disease and the importance of diabetes prevention and management. Let's take a look at what diabetes is, what kind of impact it's having on Americans, and what steps you can take to prevent and/or manage the disease.

What is diabetes?

• The American Diabetes Association defines diabetes as "a group of diseases characterized by high blood glucose levels that result from defects in the body's ability to produce and/or use insulin."
• The American Diabetes Association lists many things as possible symptoms of diabetes, including frequent urination, unusual thirst, blurred vision, and more.  But some diabetics have no symptoms.  Also, it's important to note that many other ailments have some of the same symptoms as diabetes.  If you suspect you may have diabetes, talk to your doctor, who can evaluate your symptoms and determine if you should be tested for diabetes and/or any other conditions.

Who has diabetes?

• Currently, 25.8 million adults and children in the United States have diabetes--that's 8.3% of the population.
• In 2010, there were 1.9 million new cases of diabetes diagnosed in people age 20 and over.
• The American Diabetes Association estimates that the total national cost of diagnosed cases of diabetes in the United States is $174 billion.
• Since 2 out of 3 people with diabetes die from stroke or heart attack, diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in adults, and also the leading cause of kidney failure, it is crucial that non-diabetics engage in proper preventative measures and that diabetics effectively manage their disease.  The American Diabetes Association believes that another 57 million Americans are at risk--and that, if current trends continue, one out of every three children will face a future with diabetes.

How can a diabetic person manage the disease--and how can a non-diabetic prevent diabetes?

• Don't use tobacco products.  If you already smoke or use other tobacco products, check into whether your workplace has a tobacco cessation program you can participate in.
• Reach and maintain a healthy weight.
• Be physically active--don't be sedentary.  Talk to your doctor about what kind of exercise is safe for you to do.
• If you have diabetes, look into getting a flu shot and a pneumonia shot (diabetics are more likely to die from pneumonia or influenza than non-diabetics), but first confirm with your doctor that it's OK for you to do so.  Also, talk to your doctor about how to maintain your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
• Diabetic or not, you should make sure that you have a primary care physician.  If you don't have one, consider reaching out to an advocacy service that can help you find a doctor that is in-network with your insurance plan and is local to you.  You may have access to an advocacy service like Health Advocate as part of your benefits plan; if you don't, Health Proponent is an advocacy service that individuals can use.

How can you get involved in efforts to stop diabetes?

• Take the American Diabetes Month pledge on Facebook to raise your hand to help stop diabetes.
• Attend an American Diabetes Month event (click here to find events local to you).
• Visit your YMCA.  The CDC and YMCA have partnered up to fight diabetes--as part of the National Diabetes Prevention Program, they're offering classes that encourage healthy lifestyle choices like physical activity and moderate weight loss.  there are currently classes being offered at 178 YMCA locations nationwide.
• Get more information about diabetes by calling 1-800-DIABETES or by visiting StopDiabetes.com.