Condition Management
A chronic illness or other complex health issue can take a huge toll on you and your family. Yet, if you take an active role in managing your illness, you can improve your quality of life.
As part of the HEALTHY YOU initiative, your health plan provider (Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Tufts Health Plan, or United Healthcare) offers lifestyle coaching and disease management support for those suffering from diabetes, coronary artery disease (CAD), congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or asthma.
Faculty and staff and their dependents enrolled with one of these health plan providers through their institution’s benefits coverage, who face one of these illnesses, may be eligible.
On an ongoing basis, your health plan vendor conducts a confidential review of your institution’s medical plan benefit claims, including those for prescription drugs, doctor’s visits and hospital stays. Through this review, the providers identify individuals with covered conditions who are likely to benefit from the program. Once identified as a program candidate, the provider will begin direct outreach to explain how the program can help.
If you are eligible and you decide to participate in one of these programs, you will learn how to prevent or minimize the effects of your illness. You’ll work with a team of health professionals (e.g., registered nurses) who specialize in your condition. Your team will help you to learn more about your illness and actions you can take in support of your doctor’s treatment plan. For example, you may receive:
- One-on-one coaching—through calls with a registered nurse or clinician who can evaluate your health status, discuss your condition, and provide support references.
- Support for improving your self-care skills between doctor’s visits—including managing your prescription drugs.
- A health guide specific to your illness—to educate you about your illness and provide guidelines for yours care, including doctor’s visits and tests.
- Access to online resources—to provide further education and resources for your condition.
Note: The program does NOT replace your doctor’s care; instead, it’s designed to support your doctor’s treatment plan and provide you with resources and support to help you help yourself.
Participation in lifestyle coaching and disease management is voluntary and strictly confidential. Your employer will not receive information about your eligibility or decision to participate.
If you have questions about lifestyle coaching or disease management, get in touch with your institution’s Human Resources department or your health plan directly. Refer to “Your School's Wellness Resources” for the appropriate contact information.