12
SERVICE. STABILITY. SECURITY. SUMMER 2014 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Buzz Worthy News........... 2 Health News ................. 3-7 Prescription Corner ........ 8 Summer Spotlight ............. 9 Specialty Products ...10-11 Have you signed up for our online Member Portal? The Member Portal allows you to view your member information at the click of a button. Turn to page 2 for more details. You just got off from a long day at work and all you want to do is go home. However, as always you are stuck in rush hour traffic. All of a sudden, the car behind you slams into you, causing you to hit the car in front of you, and the car in front of that hits the car in front of them. Now you find yourself in the middle of a four-car pileup that is not your fault. Another concerned driver calls the cops and now a police officer is involved. You are explaining what happened to the police officer and are surprised when he hands you a ticket for “failure to maintain safe lookout.” You decide to contest the ticket and hire an attorney, otherwise you will receive points on your license and your car insurance rates will go up. The attorney successfully helps you contest the ticket, but as you are walking out, they hand you a bill for over $200 (their hourly rate)! What if you did not have to choose between paying for an expensive lawyer and taking a chance without one? With LegalShield you receive access to qualified attorneys 24/7 for your legal questions for just $15.95 a month! Having access to an attorney comes with prestige. LegalShield lets you pull out the “let me call my attorney” card for help on almost any legal issue, no matter the severity. The next time you face a legal situation, you can have an attorney a phone call away. With a lawyer’s knowledge and expertise, you have a much better chance of coming out on top—and at an affordable price! Now you have both the power and the money in your hands. Think back on that time you said “it will never happen to me,” but it did. What did it cost you? There may not have been time to search for a lawyer, so you overpaid for one at the last minute. Well now is your chance to win that money back! We are giving away a $200 gift card, equal to the average cost of one hour with a lawyer. Visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/200 to register for your chance to win. SM

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Page 1: Compass Connection | Summer 2014 Publication

COMPASS OUTREACH COMPASS OUTREACH COMPASS OUTREACH

SERVICE. STABIL I TY . SECURITY.

1768 Business Center Drive Suite 3500

Reston, VA 20190(571) 449-2366(866) 368-7227

www.compassrosebenefits.com

COMPASS CONNECTION

SUMMER 2014

Compass Rose Contact Information:

COMPASS OUTREACH

SERVICE. STABIL I TY . SECURITY.

SUMMER 2014

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:Buzz Worthy News ........... 2

Health News ................. 3-7

Prescription Corner ........ 8

Summer Spotlight ............. 9

Specialty Products ... 10-11

Medical Claims UMR UMR (888) 438-9135 P.O. Box 8095 Wausau, WI 54402

Pre-certifications UMR (866) 494-4502

Express Scripts Express Scripts (877) 438-4449 P.O. Box 747000 www.express-scripts.com/Pharmacy Cincinnati,OH45274 Lab Program LabCorp (888) 438-9135

DentalandVisionDiscountProgram CareingtonInternationalCorporation (800) 290-0523 7400 Gaylord Parkway www.compassrosebenefits.com/Careington Frisco, TX 75034

CompassRoseBenefitsGroup CompassRoseBenefitsGroup (866) 368-7227 1768BusinessCenterDr.,Suite3500 [email protected] Reston,VA20190 www.compassrosebenefits.com

Social Networks www.twitter.com/CRBGinsurance www.compassrosebenefits.com/Pinterest www.facebook.com/CRBGinsurance www.compassrosebenefits.com/LinkedIn

Proud to provide quality

insurance solutions for over

65 years!

Have you signed

up for our online

Member Portal?

The Member Portal

allows you to view

your member

information at the

click of a button.

Turn to page 2 for

more details.

You just got off from a long day at work and all you want to do is go home. However, as always you are stuck in rush hour traffic. All of a sudden, the car behind you slams into you, causing you to hit the car in front of you, and the car in front of that hits the car in front of them. Now you find yourself in the middle of a four-car pileup that is not your fault.

Another concerned driver calls the cops and now a police officer is involved. You are explaining what happened to the police officer and are surprised when he hands you a ticket for “failure to maintain safe lookout.”

You decide to contest the ticket and hire an attorney, otherwise you will receive points on your license and your car insurance rates will go up. The attorney successfully helps you contest the ticket, but as you are walking out, they hand you a bill for over $200 (their hourly rate)!

What if you did not have to choose between paying for an expensive lawyer and taking a chance without one? With LegalShield you receive access to qualified attorneys 24/7 for your legal questions for just $15.95 a month!

Having access to an attorney comes with prestige. LegalShield lets you pull out the “let me call my attorney” card for help on almost any legal issue, no matter the severity. The next time you face a legal situation, you can have an attorney a phone call away. With a lawyer’s knowledge and expertise, you have a much better chance of coming out on top—and at an affordable price! Now you have both the power and the money in your hands.

Think back on that time you said “it will never happen to me,” but it did. What did it cost you? There may not have been time to search for a lawyer, so you overpaid for one at the last minute. Well now is your chance to win that money back! We are giving away a $200 gift card, equal to the average cost of one hour with a lawyer. Visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/200 to register for your chance to win.

SM

Page 2: Compass Connection | Summer 2014 Publication

COMPASS OUTREACH

2 3

Do Not Go Through It Alone

Not everyone is a health expert. If you or a family member experiences a serious injury or long-term illness, you will not always know which steps to take. As a Compass Rose Health Plan member, you have free access to a case management team staffed with licensed, registered nurses to help you effectively navigate your care.

UMR, the Claims Payer for the Compass Rose Health Plan, identifies members experiencing catastrophic/complex illnesses, transplants and trauma cases and offers case management services. The case management program targets these complicated cases in an effort to achieve better medical outcomes and help ensure your benefit dollars are being well spent. Each case is unique and handled according to the specific needs of the member and their family.

Case Managers have the knowledge and ability to identify, coordinate and negotiate treatment plans and related costs. The top 10 benefits include:

1. Help you understand what to expect during the course of treatment

2. Establish collaborative long-term and short-term goals

3. Complete phone assessments to determine needs and requirements

4. Address any questions or concerns

5. Coordinate care in an effort to maximize use of your available benefits

6. Discuss treatment from the beginning of your care to recovery

7. Look at treatment needs and options under the direction of your doctor

8. Serve as your advocate

9. Provide an understanding of any complex issues

10. Help you better understand your health benefits

Should you or a family member find yourself in a complex medical situation, you may receive a call from a UMR Case Manager. To request case management services or to learn more, call (888) 438-9135.

2015 Board of Directors ElectionCompass Rose Benefits Group (CRBG) is actively seeking eligible candidates for its 2015 Board of Directors. Candidates must be enrolled in at least one CRBG plan, and eligibility extends to all civilian employees and retirees of the Intelligence Community, Department of Defense and the Department of State.

CRBG Board members are elected by their peers. The Board meets approximately six times a year in Reston, VA or via conference call, and plays a crucial role in ensuring that all CRBG products and services meet membership needs. All Board positions are voluntary and non-paid.

This year’s Board of Directors election will be held in November. There are two active and one retiree positions

open to eligible candidates (there are no incumbents seeking reelection). Those elected will serve a three-year term beginning January 2015.

Interested parties should submit a brief personal biography of no more than 550 words, including a statement of interest no later than September 30th. Send completed applications to [email protected] or mail to:

Compass Rose Benefits Group 1768 Business Center Drive Suite 3500 Reston, VA 20190 ATTN: Board Elections

BUZZ WORTHY NEWS

Exclusive Membership Just for You!Compass Rose Health Plan members can now view health plan information, Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) and claims status as well as order new ID cards through our online Member Portal!

To join the online experience, members can register by visiting www.compassrosebenefits.com/Register. After completing the registration form, members will receive an email within 3-5 business days with their unique login information, securing access to their personalized Member Portal account.

Tips to ensure registration is processed as quickly as possible:

• When filling out the registration form, verify that your information is correct (DOB, last 4 of Social Security Number, Health ID #, etc).

• Add ‘[email protected]’ to your email’s address book.

• Some military email addresses and other government agencies may automatically block any emails with links in them without the user’s knowledge. We suggest you register with your personal email address from common providers such as Gmail, Yahoo and AOL.

• If you have not received an email within 3-5 days, check your junk mail.

We encourage all our health plan members to participate. If you have any additional questions, please call Member Services at (866) 368-7227.

HEALTH NEWS

Case Management Member Testimonial Helen had a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), high blood pressure, high cholesterol and depression.

She was admitted to the intensive care unit with shortness of breath, weakness and dizziness. After her admission, she became unresponsive, received a blood transfusion and was placed on a ventilator to help her breathe. Identified as a complex case, the UMR case management team stepped in to help.

The assigned case management nurse worked with Helen’s husband, Steve, to coordinate his wife’s care. The registered nurse was helpful in explaining Helen’s plan of treatment and answering Steve’s questions about the family’s health care benefits.

Even after Helen was stable and discharged from the hospital, the case management nurse continued to help them understand home care treatment and the day-to-day plan. The case management team played an integral part in helping relieve some of the stress of the situation for Helen and her husband and in helping to ensure they understood her illness and care.

Rain or Shine, We Give BackOn April 30, 2014, Compass Rose Benefits Group sponsored its fourth annual American Red Cross Blood Drive. Over 25 individuals donated their time and blood during the event. Thank you to those who helped us donate 19 units of blood. You helped provide blood for up to 60 people! Learn how you can help give the gift of life, visit www.redcross.org or call (800) 733-2767.

Page 3: Compass Connection | Summer 2014 Publication

COMPASS OUTREACH

2 3

Do Not Go Through It Alone

Not everyone is a health expert. If you or a family member experiences a serious injury or long-term illness, you will not always know which steps to take. As a Compass Rose Health Plan member, you have free access to a case management team staffed with licensed, registered nurses to help you effectively navigate your care.

UMR, the Claims Payer for the Compass Rose Health Plan, identifies members experiencing catastrophic/complex illnesses, transplants and trauma cases and offers case management services. The case management program targets these complicated cases in an effort to achieve better medical outcomes and help ensure your benefit dollars are being well spent. Each case is unique and handled according to the specific needs of the member and their family.

Case Managers have the knowledge and ability to identify, coordinate and negotiate treatment plans and related costs. The top 10 benefits include:

1. Help you understand what to expect during the course of treatment

2. Establish collaborative long-term and short-term goals

3. Complete phone assessments to determine needs and requirements

4. Address any questions or concerns

5. Coordinate care in an effort to maximize use of your available benefits

6. Discuss treatment from the beginning of your care to recovery

7. Look at treatment needs and options under the direction of your doctor

8. Serve as your advocate

9. Provide an understanding of any complex issues

10. Help you better understand your health benefits

Should you or a family member find yourself in a complex medical situation, you may receive a call from a UMR Case Manager. To request case management services or to learn more, call (888) 438-9135.

2015 Board of Directors ElectionCompass Rose Benefits Group (CRBG) is actively seeking eligible candidates for its 2015 Board of Directors. Candidates must be enrolled in at least one CRBG plan, and eligibility extends to all civilian employees and retirees of the Intelligence Community, Department of Defense and the Department of State.

CRBG Board members are elected by their peers. The Board meets approximately six times a year in Reston, VA or via conference call, and plays a crucial role in ensuring that all CRBG products and services meet membership needs. All Board positions are voluntary and non-paid.

This year’s Board of Directors election will be held in November. There are two active and one retiree positions

open to eligible candidates (there are no incumbents seeking reelection). Those elected will serve a three-year term beginning January 2015.

Interested parties should submit a brief personal biography of no more than 550 words, including a statement of interest no later than September 30th. Send completed applications to [email protected] or mail to:

Compass Rose Benefits Group 1768 Business Center Drive Suite 3500 Reston, VA 20190 ATTN: Board Elections

BUZZ WORTHY NEWS

Exclusive Membership Just for You!Compass Rose Health Plan members can now view health plan information, Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) and claims status as well as order new ID cards through our online Member Portal!

To join the online experience, members can register by visiting www.compassrosebenefits.com/Register. After completing the registration form, members will receive an email within 3-5 business days with their unique login information, securing access to their personalized Member Portal account.

Tips to ensure registration is processed as quickly as possible:

• When filling out the registration form, verify that your information is correct (DOB, last 4 of Social Security Number, Health ID #, etc).

• Add ‘[email protected]’ to your email’s address book.

• Some military email addresses and other government agencies may automatically block any emails with links in them without the user’s knowledge. We suggest you register with your personal email address from common providers such as Gmail, Yahoo and AOL.

• If you have not received an email within 3-5 days, check your junk mail.

We encourage all our health plan members to participate. If you have any additional questions, please call Member Services at (866) 368-7227.

HEALTH NEWS

Case Management Member Testimonial Helen had a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), high blood pressure, high cholesterol and depression.

She was admitted to the intensive care unit with shortness of breath, weakness and dizziness. After her admission, she became unresponsive, received a blood transfusion and was placed on a ventilator to help her breathe. Identified as a complex case, the UMR case management team stepped in to help.

The assigned case management nurse worked with Helen’s husband, Steve, to coordinate his wife’s care. The registered nurse was helpful in explaining Helen’s plan of treatment and answering Steve’s questions about the family’s health care benefits.

Even after Helen was stable and discharged from the hospital, the case management nurse continued to help them understand home care treatment and the day-to-day plan. The case management team played an integral part in helping relieve some of the stress of the situation for Helen and her husband and in helping to ensure they understood her illness and care.

Rain or Shine, We Give BackOn April 30, 2014, Compass Rose Benefits Group sponsored its fourth annual American Red Cross Blood Drive. Over 25 individuals donated their time and blood during the event. Thank you to those who helped us donate 19 units of blood. You helped provide blood for up to 60 people! Learn how you can help give the gift of life, visit www.redcross.org or call (800) 733-2767.

Page 4: Compass Connection | Summer 2014 Publication

54

HEALTH NEWS HEALTH NEWS

Heart Health in the HeatThe days of pool parties, vacations and no homework are here! Everyone is going outside to enjoy the warm weather, but summer’s high temperatures and increased sun exposure bring health dangers. When you are outside, your body temperature rises. The body has ways to cool itself down—through perspiration and dilation of the blood vessels—but they cause your heart to beat faster and decrease blood pressure. This raises your risk of stroke or heart attack.

Anyone with pre-existing conditions should take extra precaution in the heat. If you are taking certain heart medications such as beta-blockers, ace receptor blockers, ace inhibitors, calcium channel blockers and diuretics, you should know that they could exaggerate the body’s response to heat.

Dress for the Heat

Sunscreen is not the only protection you need when going outside. Some colors and fabrics attract and trap heat to your body. You should wear lightweight, light-colored clothing in breathable fabrics such as cotton to help your body stay cool. Even some newer fabrics help repel sweat. In addition, you should also add a hat and sunglasses.

Hydrate

You may assume that increasing your water intake is the answer for hydration when it is hot, but too much water is not good for you because it adds stress to the heart. Take your weight and divide it in half—that number is how many ounces of water you should drink a day (8 ounces equals 1 cup). This means a person who weighs 200 pounds should drink 100 ounces or 12.5 cups of water every day in order to stay hydrated.

SOURCE: www.heart.org

It Is Time to Get Fit According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), approximately 69% of adults are overweight or obese. Childhood obesity rates in America have nearly tripled over the past few decades, and now one in three children are overweight or obese.

There have been many changes in America creating an environment where it is harder to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Many people live their lives sitting in a car or sitting behind a desk. In our fast-paced environment, it is easier to stop by a fast food restaurant than make a meal.

There are many health risks that come from being overweight or obese such as increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, certain cancers and other chronic conditions.

Getting healthy may seem like a daunting task, but here are a few things to help you get started.

• Get moving. Park farther away and take the stairs. Increasing how much you walk even by small amounts can help you start to get in shape.

• Mind your portions. We live in a super-sized society. Many portion sizes are more than what we need.

• Make a shopping list. If you go to the grocery store with a plan, you will be less likely to toss food into your cart that you do not need.

SOURCES: www.nhlbi.nih.gov and www.letsmove.gov

Healthy Living GlobalFit, a free benefit available to Compass Rose Health Plan members, is offering 50% off selected gym memberships! To help keep you moving, join a gym today! Reference code HALF0714. To register, call (800) 294-1500 or visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/GlobalFit.

Offer Expires 7/31/14.

Hydration Tip: If you want to have a drink with more flavor, try adding fruit such as berries or cucumber to your water.

Avoid intense activities between noon and 3 p.m. when the sun is at its hottest.

Heart Healthy Cookout Recipe

Shrimp and Vegetable Kabobs

½ cup Italian salad dressing

1 tbsp minced fresh parsley

1 tsp dried basil

2 medium yellow squash, cut into 1-inch pieces

8 cherry tomatoes

1 medium green pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 pound uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

Directions1. Combine salad dressing, parsley

and basil.

2. Alternate the vegetables and shrimp on eight skewers.

3. Grill uncovered over medium heat for 3 minutes, turning halfway through.

4. Baste with dressing mixture.

5. Grill for another 3-4 minutes, or until shrimp turn pink and vegetables are tender. Turn and baste frequently.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION1 serving is 2 skewers and equals 244 calories. A diet rich in vegetables can lower your risk of heart disease. Tomatoes contain important nutrients that have associated with the reduction of heart disease risk, green peppers are rich in antioxidants and yellow squash contain almost no fat and no measurable cholesterol.

Symptoms of Heat Stroke include:•Warm,dryskinwithnosweating

•Strongandrapidpulse

•Confusionand/or unconsciousness

•Highfever

•Throbbingheadaches

•Nausea,vomitingorboth

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.

Page 5: Compass Connection | Summer 2014 Publication

54

HEALTH NEWS HEALTH NEWS

Heart Health in the HeatThe days of pool parties, vacations and no homework are here! Everyone is going outside to enjoy the warm weather, but summer’s high temperatures and increased sun exposure bring health dangers. When you are outside, your body temperature rises. The body has ways to cool itself down—through perspiration and dilation of the blood vessels—but they cause your heart to beat faster and decrease blood pressure. This raises your risk of stroke or heart attack.

Anyone with pre-existing conditions should take extra precaution in the heat. If you are taking certain heart medications such as beta-blockers, ace receptor blockers, ace inhibitors, calcium channel blockers and diuretics, you should know that they could exaggerate the body’s response to heat.

Dress for the Heat

Sunscreen is not the only protection you need when going outside. Some colors and fabrics attract and trap heat to your body. You should wear lightweight, light-colored clothing in breathable fabrics such as cotton to help your body stay cool. Even some newer fabrics help repel sweat. In addition, you should also add a hat and sunglasses.

Hydrate

You may assume that increasing your water intake is the answer for hydration when it is hot, but too much water is not good for you because it adds stress to the heart. Take your weight and divide it in half—that number is how many ounces of water you should drink a day (8 ounces equals 1 cup). This means a person who weighs 200 pounds should drink 100 ounces or 12.5 cups of water every day in order to stay hydrated.

SOURCE: www.heart.org

It Is Time to Get Fit According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), approximately 69% of adults are overweight or obese. Childhood obesity rates in America have nearly tripled over the past few decades, and now one in three children are overweight or obese.

There have been many changes in America creating an environment where it is harder to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Many people live their lives sitting in a car or sitting behind a desk. In our fast-paced environment, it is easier to stop by a fast food restaurant than make a meal.

There are many health risks that come from being overweight or obese such as increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, certain cancers and other chronic conditions.

Getting healthy may seem like a daunting task, but here are a few things to help you get started.

• Get moving. Park farther away and take the stairs. Increasing how much you walk even by small amounts can help you start to get in shape.

• Mind your portions. We live in a super-sized society. Many portion sizes are more than what we need.

• Make a shopping list. If you go to the grocery store with a plan, you will be less likely to toss food into your cart that you do not need.

SOURCES: www.nhlbi.nih.gov and www.letsmove.gov

Healthy Living GlobalFit, a free benefit available to Compass Rose Health Plan members, is offering 50% off selected gym memberships! To help keep you moving, join a gym today! Reference code HALF0714. To register, call (800) 294-1500 or visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/GlobalFit.

Offer Expires 7/31/14.

Hydration Tip: If you want to have a drink with more flavor, try adding fruit such as berries or cucumber to your water.

Avoid intense activities between noon and 3 p.m. when the sun is at its hottest.

Heart Healthy Cookout Recipe

Shrimp and Vegetable Kabobs

½ cup Italian salad dressing

1 tbsp minced fresh parsley

1 tsp dried basil

2 medium yellow squash, cut into 1-inch pieces

8 cherry tomatoes

1 medium green pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 pound uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

Directions1. Combine salad dressing, parsley

and basil.

2. Alternate the vegetables and shrimp on eight skewers.

3. Grill uncovered over medium heat for 3 minutes, turning halfway through.

4. Baste with dressing mixture.

5. Grill for another 3-4 minutes, or until shrimp turn pink and vegetables are tender. Turn and baste frequently.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION1 serving is 2 skewers and equals 244 calories. A diet rich in vegetables can lower your risk of heart disease. Tomatoes contain important nutrients that have associated with the reduction of heart disease risk, green peppers are rich in antioxidants and yellow squash contain almost no fat and no measurable cholesterol.

Symptoms of Heat Stroke include:•Warm,dryskinwithnosweating

•Strongandrapidpulse

•Confusionand/or unconsciousness

•Highfever

•Throbbingheadaches

•Nausea,vomitingorboth

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.

Page 6: Compass Connection | Summer 2014 Publication

COMPASS OUTREACH

7

HEALTH NEWS HEALTH NEWS

The Truth About E-Cigarettes

More and more smokers are switching to battery-powered Electronic Cigarettes (E-Cigarettes) in order to get their fill of nicotine. Instead of burning tobacco like a normal cigarette, E-Cigarettes heat a liquid nicotine solution in plastic or metal tubes that look like cigarettes, creating vapor that the user inhales. E-Cigarettes do not contain the amount of chemicals that traditional cigarettes do, which is why smokers are starting to use them. Some smokers even use them as a way to quit smoking all together.

To many, smoking without the harmful chemicals sounds too good to be true and they may be right. There is little research showing whether E-Cigarettes actually help smokers quit and it is still unknown if they are safe.

Complaints of injury and adverse effects connected to E-Cigarettes have risen over the past year. These complaints have been enough to alert the FDA and garner their attention.

Part of the issue the FDA is facing is that the E-Cigarette market is very diverse. There are thousands of products and flavors E-Cigarette smokers can choose from. Some manufacturing companies do not put all of the health information on labels. Overall, the quality of E-Cigarette products is inconsistent and it is hard for consumers to know what they are getting.

The FDA is also concerned that E-Cigarettes will attract many young people. Younger generations are educated on the harmful effects of smoking traditional cigarettes. E-Cigarettes have the reputation of being healthier and come in a variety of flavors like strawberry, peppermint and chocolate, which are appealing to minors.

Proposed regulations from the FDA include banning the sale of E-Cigarettes to those under 18, requiring health-warning labels on packages and restricting advertising.

Will E-Cigarettes begin to out-sell regular cigarettes within the next decade? Only time will tell, but we will likely see tighter regulations and an expanded knowledge on the true safety and health effects of E-Cigarettes.

Until studies show E-Cigarettes are safe and can help you quit smoking, we recommend a traditional Smoking Cessation Program. Your best chance for quitting is a combination of counseling and medication. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. The benefits of quitting begin almost immediately—blood oxygen levels normalize, risk of heart attack decreases and lung function increases. The long-term effects are even greater—risk for stroke falls to that of a nonsmoker and risk for cancers of the lung, mouth, throat, esophagus and bladder are cut in half.

As a Compass Rose Health Plan member, you have access to a FREE Smoking Cessation Benefit Program. We cover ALL medications at no cost, as long as you have a prescription from your doctor. To learn more or enroll, visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/QuitSmoking.

Living Longer: TheBenefitsofaHealthySpineA major concern for those who are older is mobility. As you age, it becomes harder to move around. Think about what your life would be like if you lost mobility around 65 but lived until you were 100. Can you imagine 35 years without mobility?

A major source of mobility is the spine. The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) sites experts who estimate that as many as 80% of the population will experience a back problem at some point in their lives. Taking preventative measures early on can increase your mobility later in life.

One way to help your spine is through preventative chiropractic care. Chiropractic care focuses on maintaining a healthy musculoskeletal system to ensure overall wellness. There are three stages: pain relief, stabilization and maintenance. Chiropractic care not only retains spinal health, but also helps with stress, digestive problems, depression, headaches and childbirth. The earlier you receive chiropractic care, the more you can benefit from it.

Besides chiropractic care, there are other ways you can care for your back. These include:

• Remain active and exercise. Exercises such as stretching, yoga and Pilates can help strengthen your back.

• Avoid a prolonged sedentary state, such as sitting at a desk all day. If you do, make sure you stand up and walk around every so often to stretch out your back.

• Maintain a good posture. When you sit at a desk, you should sit with your eyes at screen level, arms at desk level and legs parallel to the floor. You may also find a chair that offers lumbar support to be helpful for both posture and pain.

• Sleep on a mattress with medium firmness to support your spine properly.

Remember that maintaining good spinal health can increase your quality of life as you age. You should take the necessary steps now to ensure better health later. After all, you cannot replace your spine.

SOURCES: http://www.nia.nih.gov/sites/default/files/global_health_and_aging.pdf and http://www.acatoday.org/

Protect Yourself and Those Around YouMany viruses and diseases that can be prevented with vaccinations are thought to have been eliminated. However, it seems that this year there has been an increased number of outbreaks in the U.S. Over the past decade, more and more parents have decided not to vaccinate their children, putting them and others at risk.

It is common knowledge to avoid those who show signs of sickness and to wash your hands. However, it is difficult to know whether someone has a highly contagious disease.

The best protection is vaccination. Vaccines are a weakened form of the disease, injected into the body. Once detected, your body works to make antibodies to fight the disease so that if you ever encounter the disease, your body already has the antibodies to fight it.

While vaccinations are not required by law, many school systems require children be vaccinated in order to attend. There are also vaccine recommendations for adults. Vaccinations can help eliminate some diseases, making the world a healthier place to live. As a Compass Rose Health Plan member, you receive 100% coverage on routine vaccinations. To learn more, call Member Services at (866) 368-7227. SOURCE: www.cdc.gov

The Compass

Rose Health Plan offers

20 sessions of chiropractic

care at $20 each per year.

6

Page 7: Compass Connection | Summer 2014 Publication

COMPASS OUTREACH

7

HEALTH NEWS HEALTH NEWS

The Truth About E-Cigarettes

More and more smokers are switching to battery-powered Electronic Cigarettes (E-Cigarettes) in order to get their fill of nicotine. Instead of burning tobacco like a normal cigarette, E-Cigarettes heat a liquid nicotine solution in plastic or metal tubes that look like cigarettes, creating vapor that the user inhales. E-Cigarettes do not contain the amount of chemicals that traditional cigarettes do, which is why smokers are starting to use them. Some smokers even use them as a way to quit smoking all together.

To many, smoking without the harmful chemicals sounds too good to be true and they may be right. There is little research showing whether E-Cigarettes actually help smokers quit and it is still unknown if they are safe.

Complaints of injury and adverse effects connected to E-Cigarettes have risen over the past year. These complaints have been enough to alert the FDA and garner their attention.

Part of the issue the FDA is facing is that the E-Cigarette market is very diverse. There are thousands of products and flavors E-Cigarette smokers can choose from. Some manufacturing companies do not put all of the health information on labels. Overall, the quality of E-Cigarette products is inconsistent and it is hard for consumers to know what they are getting.

The FDA is also concerned that E-Cigarettes will attract many young people. Younger generations are educated on the harmful effects of smoking traditional cigarettes. E-Cigarettes have the reputation of being healthier and come in a variety of flavors like strawberry, peppermint and chocolate, which are appealing to minors.

Proposed regulations from the FDA include banning the sale of E-Cigarettes to those under 18, requiring health-warning labels on packages and restricting advertising.

Will E-Cigarettes begin to out-sell regular cigarettes within the next decade? Only time will tell, but we will likely see tighter regulations and an expanded knowledge on the true safety and health effects of E-Cigarettes.

Until studies show E-Cigarettes are safe and can help you quit smoking, we recommend a traditional Smoking Cessation Program. Your best chance for quitting is a combination of counseling and medication. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. The benefits of quitting begin almost immediately—blood oxygen levels normalize, risk of heart attack decreases and lung function increases. The long-term effects are even greater—risk for stroke falls to that of a nonsmoker and risk for cancers of the lung, mouth, throat, esophagus and bladder are cut in half.

As a Compass Rose Health Plan member, you have access to a FREE Smoking Cessation Benefit Program. We cover ALL medications at no cost, as long as you have a prescription from your doctor. To learn more or enroll, visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/QuitSmoking.

Living Longer: TheBenefitsofaHealthySpineA major concern for those who are older is mobility. As you age, it becomes harder to move around. Think about what your life would be like if you lost mobility around 65 but lived until you were 100. Can you imagine 35 years without mobility?

A major source of mobility is the spine. The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) sites experts who estimate that as many as 80% of the population will experience a back problem at some point in their lives. Taking preventative measures early on can increase your mobility later in life.

One way to help your spine is through preventative chiropractic care. Chiropractic care focuses on maintaining a healthy musculoskeletal system to ensure overall wellness. There are three stages: pain relief, stabilization and maintenance. Chiropractic care not only retains spinal health, but also helps with stress, digestive problems, depression, headaches and childbirth. The earlier you receive chiropractic care, the more you can benefit from it.

Besides chiropractic care, there are other ways you can care for your back. These include:

• Remain active and exercise. Exercises such as stretching, yoga and Pilates can help strengthen your back.

• Avoid a prolonged sedentary state, such as sitting at a desk all day. If you do, make sure you stand up and walk around every so often to stretch out your back.

• Maintain a good posture. When you sit at a desk, you should sit with your eyes at screen level, arms at desk level and legs parallel to the floor. You may also find a chair that offers lumbar support to be helpful for both posture and pain.

• Sleep on a mattress with medium firmness to support your spine properly.

Remember that maintaining good spinal health can increase your quality of life as you age. You should take the necessary steps now to ensure better health later. After all, you cannot replace your spine.

SOURCES: http://www.nia.nih.gov/sites/default/files/global_health_and_aging.pdf and http://www.acatoday.org/

Protect Yourself and Those Around YouMany viruses and diseases that can be prevented with vaccinations are thought to have been eliminated. However, it seems that this year there has been an increased number of outbreaks in the U.S. Over the past decade, more and more parents have decided not to vaccinate their children, putting them and others at risk.

It is common knowledge to avoid those who show signs of sickness and to wash your hands. However, it is difficult to know whether someone has a highly contagious disease.

The best protection is vaccination. Vaccines are a weakened form of the disease, injected into the body. Once detected, your body works to make antibodies to fight the disease so that if you ever encounter the disease, your body already has the antibodies to fight it.

While vaccinations are not required by law, many school systems require children be vaccinated in order to attend. There are also vaccine recommendations for adults. Vaccinations can help eliminate some diseases, making the world a healthier place to live. As a Compass Rose Health Plan member, you receive 100% coverage on routine vaccinations. To learn more, call Member Services at (866) 368-7227. SOURCE: www.cdc.gov

The Compass

Rose Health Plan offers

20 sessions of chiropractic

care at $20 each per year.

6

Page 8: Compass Connection | Summer 2014 Publication

98

Thank You Polar Vortex Do you remember this past winter’s arctic temperatures and record-breaking snowfall? Most of America was left miserable due to the “polar vortex” and could not wait for sunshine and warm temperatures. The rough winter of 2014 may have a silver lining; the start to this year’s tornado season saw fewer tornadoes than ever recorded.

Many central states typically do not get a break between the winter months and tornado season. This year, the cold air prevented warmer air from coming in, stalling the creation of thunderstorms.

Tornado-producing storms often make the news and are a prevalent threat for millions of Americans. On average, tornadoes cause about 60 deaths each year in the U.S. and they leave widespread destruction in their wake.

Tornadoes are not the only threat that accompanies thunderstorms; lightning can also cause damage. An average of 53 people are killed each year in the U.S. by lightning, and hundreds more are severely injured. Your home can be struck by lightning and cause damage if the electrical current passes through metal wires and concrete floors.

Take steps to protect you and your house when severe thunderstorms and tornadoes pose a threat. If the weather forecast calls for storms, make sure you secure any outside furniture. When lightning is a possibility, do not touch anything that is plugged into an electrical outlet, plumbing or corded phones.

If there is a tornado warning, move to a pre-designated shelter such as the basement or the lowest floor of your home. If you are on a lower floor but not underground, move to an interior room. Make sure you know your pets’ favorite places to hide so you can find them quickly! Crouch, get under something sturdy and cover yourself with blankets for protection against flying debris. If you are outside and cannot get to a safe location, as a last resort get inside a vehicle. Buckle your seat belt and drive to the closest shelter. If your car is hit or you see a tornado approaching, pull over and park. Keeping your seat belt on, put your head below the windows and cover your head. If you are near a ditch that is lower than the roadway, get out and lie in that area.

Thunderstorms and tornadoes can develop quickly and move fast, so putting an Emergency Action Plan in place and conducting a drill with your family can help keep you safe. To better prepare and learn more about emergency kits and action plans, turn to page 11.

SOURCE: www.ready.gov

Go Green!Did you know about 69 million tons of paper and paperboard are used in the U.S. each year? And that 1,500 plastic water bottles are consumed every second in the U.S.? At CRBG we care about the environment, which is why we offer an electronic version of our Compass Connection Newsletter. We are giving away reusable Nalgene water bottles

to the first 10 people who enroll in our online newsletter! Sign up today at www.compassrosebenefits.com/ECompass and help us reduce waste.

Moving?If you have recently changed your address, let us know! You can submit a Change of Address Form at www.compassrosebenefits.com/Address or contact our Administrative office at (866) 368-7227.

Important Information Regarding Your Prescription DrugsCompass Rose Health Plan members received new member ID cards earlier this year. When filling a prescription, remember to notify the pharmacist your member ID number has changed. If pharmacies are not aware of your new ID number, they will run your old information and your eligibility will likely show as having been terminated. If you have questions, call Member Services at (866) 368-7227 or email [email protected].

Mind Your MedsThere is a national epidemic of prescription drug abuse. In the United States, more than 15,000 people die each year because of a prescription drug overdose. Prescription drug overdose deaths surpass those from cocaine and heroin combined. In addition, hospitals receive 1.2 million emergency room visits each year because of a prescription drug overdose.

Sometimes the abused prescription drugs are obtained fraudulently. According to a study by the University of Michigan, 70% of people who abuse prescription drugs obtained them through friends or family, yet only 19% of parents are concerned about prescription drug abuse in their families.

Opiate (strong narcotic) painkillers are the most abused prescription drug and are most widely prescribed. Oftentimes, those who are prescribed opiate painkillers do not need the whole prescription and

store the extra in their medicine cabinet. When these prescriptions are stored and no longer thought about, it becomes easier for an unintended user to raid the cabinet without the intended user knowing.

Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse

• Fake injuries

• Drastic changes in behavior or personality; mood swings

• Excessive amounts of pill bottles in their personal belongings

• Stealing money or expensive items to sell

• Visiting multiple doctors

There are measures you can take at home to increase prescription drug safety within your family.

For Children:

• Store drugs in a locked cabinet, out of children’s reach.

• Make sure your prescription bottles come with child-resistant caps.

For Teenagers and Young Adults:

• Keep track of your prescriptions. Count the number of pills remaining in the bottle and make sure it is the correct amount according to the dosage and start date.

• Dispose of your prescriptions properly. Most labels provide disposal instructions. If not, mix them with undesirable substances such as coffee grounds, kitty litter or saw dust, place them in a sealed bag and throw them in the trash.

Prescription drug abuse is serious. If you notice signs of potential prescription drug abuse by one of your family member or friends, make sure they seek detoxification, treatment and counseling.

SUMMER SPOTLIGHT

The odds of being

struck by lightning in your

lifetime are 1 in 10,000.

PRESCRIPTION CORNER

1 in 143 patients

are doctor shoppers.

Express Scripts Mobile

Manage your prescription anytime, anywhere with Express Scripts’ free mobile app. Scan the QR code or search for Express Scripts in your mobile device’s app store.

Page 9: Compass Connection | Summer 2014 Publication

98

Thank You Polar Vortex Do you remember this past winter’s arctic temperatures and record-breaking snowfall? Most of America was left miserable due to the “polar vortex” and could not wait for sunshine and warm temperatures. The rough winter of 2014 may have a silver lining; the start to this year’s tornado season saw fewer tornadoes than ever recorded.

Many central states typically do not get a break between the winter months and tornado season. This year, the cold air prevented warmer air from coming in, stalling the creation of thunderstorms.

Tornado-producing storms often make the news and are a prevalent threat for millions of Americans. On average, tornadoes cause about 60 deaths each year in the U.S. and they leave widespread destruction in their wake.

Tornadoes are not the only threat that accompanies thunderstorms; lightning can also cause damage. An average of 53 people are killed each year in the U.S. by lightning, and hundreds more are severely injured. Your home can be struck by lightning and cause damage if the electrical current passes through metal wires and concrete floors.

Take steps to protect you and your house when severe thunderstorms and tornadoes pose a threat. If the weather forecast calls for storms, make sure you secure any outside furniture. When lightning is a possibility, do not touch anything that is plugged into an electrical outlet, plumbing or corded phones.

If there is a tornado warning, move to a pre-designated shelter such as the basement or the lowest floor of your home. If you are on a lower floor but not underground, move to an interior room. Make sure you know your pets’ favorite places to hide so you can find them quickly! Crouch, get under something sturdy and cover yourself with blankets for protection against flying debris. If you are outside and cannot get to a safe location, as a last resort get inside a vehicle. Buckle your seat belt and drive to the closest shelter. If your car is hit or you see a tornado approaching, pull over and park. Keeping your seat belt on, put your head below the windows and cover your head. If you are near a ditch that is lower than the roadway, get out and lie in that area.

Thunderstorms and tornadoes can develop quickly and move fast, so putting an Emergency Action Plan in place and conducting a drill with your family can help keep you safe. To better prepare and learn more about emergency kits and action plans, turn to page 11.

SOURCE: www.ready.gov

Go Green!Did you know about 69 million tons of paper and paperboard are used in the U.S. each year? And that 1,500 plastic water bottles are consumed every second in the U.S.? At CRBG we care about the environment, which is why we offer an electronic version of our Compass Connection Newsletter. We are giving away reusable Nalgene water bottles

to the first 10 people who enroll in our online newsletter! Sign up today at www.compassrosebenefits.com/ECompass and help us reduce waste.

Moving?If you have recently changed your address, let us know! You can submit a Change of Address Form at www.compassrosebenefits.com/Address or contact our Administrative office at (866) 368-7227.

Important Information Regarding Your Prescription DrugsCompass Rose Health Plan members received new member ID cards earlier this year. When filling a prescription, remember to notify the pharmacist your member ID number has changed. If pharmacies are not aware of your new ID number, they will run your old information and your eligibility will likely show as having been terminated. If you have questions, call Member Services at (866) 368-7227 or email [email protected].

Mind Your MedsThere is a national epidemic of prescription drug abuse. In the United States, more than 15,000 people die each year because of a prescription drug overdose. Prescription drug overdose deaths surpass those from cocaine and heroin combined. In addition, hospitals receive 1.2 million emergency room visits each year because of a prescription drug overdose.

Sometimes the abused prescription drugs are obtained fraudulently. According to a study by the University of Michigan, 70% of people who abuse prescription drugs obtained them through friends or family, yet only 19% of parents are concerned about prescription drug abuse in their families.

Opiate (strong narcotic) painkillers are the most abused prescription drug and are most widely prescribed. Oftentimes, those who are prescribed opiate painkillers do not need the whole prescription and

store the extra in their medicine cabinet. When these prescriptions are stored and no longer thought about, it becomes easier for an unintended user to raid the cabinet without the intended user knowing.

Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse

• Fake injuries

• Drastic changes in behavior or personality; mood swings

• Excessive amounts of pill bottles in their personal belongings

• Stealing money or expensive items to sell

• Visiting multiple doctors

There are measures you can take at home to increase prescription drug safety within your family.

For Children:

• Store drugs in a locked cabinet, out of children’s reach.

• Make sure your prescription bottles come with child-resistant caps.

For Teenagers and Young Adults:

• Keep track of your prescriptions. Count the number of pills remaining in the bottle and make sure it is the correct amount according to the dosage and start date.

• Dispose of your prescriptions properly. Most labels provide disposal instructions. If not, mix them with undesirable substances such as coffee grounds, kitty litter or saw dust, place them in a sealed bag and throw them in the trash.

Prescription drug abuse is serious. If you notice signs of potential prescription drug abuse by one of your family member or friends, make sure they seek detoxification, treatment and counseling.

SUMMER SPOTLIGHT

The odds of being

struck by lightning in your

lifetime are 1 in 10,000.

PRESCRIPTION CORNER

1 in 143 patients

are doctor shoppers.

Express Scripts Mobile

Manage your prescription anytime, anywhere with Express Scripts’ free mobile app. Scan the QR code or search for Express Scripts in your mobile device’s app store.

Page 10: Compass Connection | Summer 2014 Publication

COMPASS OUTREACH

1110

SPECIALTY PRODUCTS SPECIALTY PRODUCTS

Save Money on Gas

Gas can be the most expensive aspect of a road trip. But, there are ways to save money on gas. Even simple things like changing your oil, getting a new air filter and checking tire pressure can help your car run better. Remember to slow down—the faster you drive the more gas you use. Slowing down also prevents you from getting a hefty speeding ticket! To find the lowest gas prices, you can download an app on your smart phone such as GasBuddy or GasHog.

Lodge at Campsites

Camping is cheaper than lodging in hotels. If you do not have camping equipment, you may be able to borrow what you need from friends. You can also look for deals on camping equipment; while it may be expensive initially, you can use it for years to come.

Bring Your Own Food

Buying food at restaurants, even fast food, can be more expensive. Packing your own food not only allows you to save money, but can be healthier too! Bring a blanket and have a picnic lunch at a rest area instead of stopping at a restaurant or drive-thru. When you stop at rest areas, there are often stores available if you accidentally forgot the ketchup or need napkins.

Healthy Road Trip Snacks

• Fresh Fruit—pack apples, oranges, bananas and grapes, which are easy to grab and less messy than berries.

• Fresh Veggies—pack carrots and celery in individual baggies and bring along containers of hummus or peanut butter for dipping.

• Trail Mix—you can make your own with pretzels, peanuts, M&M’s, raisins and other foods your family likes.

• Sandwiches—pre-make sandwiches, wrap them in sealable plastic bags and store them in the cooler.

• Water—do not forget to pack lots and lots of water!

Have Some Fun: Activities to Keep Children Entertained

• Activity books with word searches, coloring pages and stickers will keep children entertained for hours. You can even print these free online and put them all in a binder with a box of crayons!

• Travel games such as Mad Libs, Eye Spy and License Plate Spotting can easily be played using what you see along your route.

• Make “travel surprise bags.” Every hour or at every stop, you can give your children a travel surprise bag with a goodie inside such as a game, snack, new movie, etc.

• Use “Car Bucks!” Print travel tokens to reward children for good behavior. They can be redeemable for control of the radio for 10 minutes, picking a game or a treat.

Travel Tips

• You can fit more in a suitcase by rolling your clothes instead of folding them.

• Your car can easily start to smell. Pack an air freshener or use an open box of dryer sheets.

• Do not forget your medical insurance cards and prescriptions.

Regardless of where your vacation takes you this summer, make sure your trip is protected against trip cancellation, interruption, delay or loss of baggage. To learn more about this program, visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/Travel.

Are You Prepared for the Unexpected?Events such as 9/11, the Boston Marathon bombing, Sandy Hook Elementary shooting and Malaysian Airline disappearance have reaches far beyond the cities in which they occur. While the headlines captivate millions, most people do not think they will ever face such an event. The reality is, you never know the uncertainties life will bring.

Although you may never be fully prepared for the unexpected, preparation increases your chance of getting through a disaster. Unexpected events can happen to anyone, yet only 50% of Americans are prepared. You and your family should know how to respond.

1. Do your homework.

Knowing what disasters you could potentially face can help you better prepare. These events are not limited to attacks but are also nature’s doing such as tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes or mud slides. No area is disaster free.

2. Put together an emergency kit.

Depending on your specific disaster needs, each emergency kit may vary. Your home is not the only place you should have an emergency kit; you should also have a kit stored in your car as emergencies can happen anywhere, anytime.

Emergency Kit Essentials:

• 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person, per day)

• 3-day supply of non-perishable food items

• Flashlights

• Extra batteries

• Battery-powered radio in case you lose power

• First aid kit stocked with the necessities such as Band-Aids, gauze pads, antibiotic cream, scissors, etc.

• Sanitation and personal hygiene items

• Copies of personal documents and emergency contact information

• Emergency blanket

If you have pets, do not forget to have a supply of food and water for them too!

3. Make a plan.

When disaster strikes, know where to go. Make a plan with your family and discuss what would happen in different scenarios such as if you were at school or work versus at home. Decide on a meeting place that everyone will remember and make sure everyone has emergency contact numbers. Run practice drills with your family so everyone will know what to do if something happens.

The truth is it could happen to you. In the event of a disaster, your family matters most. If something were to happen to you, will they be protected? Did you know the amount of money you spend on coffee each week could help provide your loved ones with a secure financial future? By purchasing life insurance, you help provide financial security and support for those closest to you. Visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/Coffee and take the Compass Rose Coffee Calculator! We built a fun and easy-to-use tool that shows you how much Group Term Life Insurance* you can apply for, for what you personally spend on coffee each week! We challenge you to see just how affordable life insurance can be. *Underwritten by New York Life Insurance Company (NY, NY 10010) on Policy Form GMR-ER-P

SOURCES: http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster and http://www.emergency.cdc.gov

Many Life Insurance Plans do not cover Acts of War & Terrorism. Our Group Term Life Insurance Plan does!

Summer Road Trip Tips

Page 11: Compass Connection | Summer 2014 Publication

COMPASS OUTREACH

1110

SPECIALTY PRODUCTS SPECIALTY PRODUCTS

Save Money on Gas

Gas can be the most expensive aspect of a road trip. But, there are ways to save money on gas. Even simple things like changing your oil, getting a new air filter and checking tire pressure can help your car run better. Remember to slow down—the faster you drive the more gas you use. Slowing down also prevents you from getting a hefty speeding ticket! To find the lowest gas prices, you can download an app on your smart phone such as GasBuddy or GasHog.

Lodge at Campsites

Camping is cheaper than lodging in hotels. If you do not have camping equipment, you may be able to borrow what you need from friends. You can also look for deals on camping equipment; while it may be expensive initially, you can use it for years to come.

Bring Your Own Food

Buying food at restaurants, even fast food, can be more expensive. Packing your own food not only allows you to save money, but can be healthier too! Bring a blanket and have a picnic lunch at a rest area instead of stopping at a restaurant or drive-thru. When you stop at rest areas, there are often stores available if you accidentally forgot the ketchup or need napkins.

Healthy Road Trip Snacks

• Fresh Fruit—pack apples, oranges, bananas and grapes, which are easy to grab and less messy than berries.

• Fresh Veggies—pack carrots and celery in individual baggies and bring along containers of hummus or peanut butter for dipping.

• Trail Mix—you can make your own with pretzels, peanuts, M&M’s, raisins and other foods your family likes.

• Sandwiches—pre-make sandwiches, wrap them in sealable plastic bags and store them in the cooler.

• Water—do not forget to pack lots and lots of water!

Have Some Fun: Activities to Keep Children Entertained

• Activity books with word searches, coloring pages and stickers will keep children entertained for hours. You can even print these free online and put them all in a binder with a box of crayons!

• Travel games such as Mad Libs, Eye Spy and License Plate Spotting can easily be played using what you see along your route.

• Make “travel surprise bags.” Every hour or at every stop, you can give your children a travel surprise bag with a goodie inside such as a game, snack, new movie, etc.

• Use “Car Bucks!” Print travel tokens to reward children for good behavior. They can be redeemable for control of the radio for 10 minutes, picking a game or a treat.

Travel Tips

• You can fit more in a suitcase by rolling your clothes instead of folding them.

• Your car can easily start to smell. Pack an air freshener or use an open box of dryer sheets.

• Do not forget your medical insurance cards and prescriptions.

Regardless of where your vacation takes you this summer, make sure your trip is protected against trip cancellation, interruption, delay or loss of baggage. To learn more about this program, visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/Travel.

Are You Prepared for the Unexpected?Events such as 9/11, the Boston Marathon bombing, Sandy Hook Elementary shooting and Malaysian Airline disappearance have reaches far beyond the cities in which they occur. While the headlines captivate millions, most people do not think they will ever face such an event. The reality is, you never know the uncertainties life will bring.

Although you may never be fully prepared for the unexpected, preparation increases your chance of getting through a disaster. Unexpected events can happen to anyone, yet only 50% of Americans are prepared. You and your family should know how to respond.

1. Do your homework.

Knowing what disasters you could potentially face can help you better prepare. These events are not limited to attacks but are also nature’s doing such as tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes or mud slides. No area is disaster free.

2. Put together an emergency kit.

Depending on your specific disaster needs, each emergency kit may vary. Your home is not the only place you should have an emergency kit; you should also have a kit stored in your car as emergencies can happen anywhere, anytime.

Emergency Kit Essentials:

• 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person, per day)

• 3-day supply of non-perishable food items

• Flashlights

• Extra batteries

• Battery-powered radio in case you lose power

• First aid kit stocked with the necessities such as Band-Aids, gauze pads, antibiotic cream, scissors, etc.

• Sanitation and personal hygiene items

• Copies of personal documents and emergency contact information

• Emergency blanket

If you have pets, do not forget to have a supply of food and water for them too!

3. Make a plan.

When disaster strikes, know where to go. Make a plan with your family and discuss what would happen in different scenarios such as if you were at school or work versus at home. Decide on a meeting place that everyone will remember and make sure everyone has emergency contact numbers. Run practice drills with your family so everyone will know what to do if something happens.

The truth is it could happen to you. In the event of a disaster, your family matters most. If something were to happen to you, will they be protected? Did you know the amount of money you spend on coffee each week could help provide your loved ones with a secure financial future? By purchasing life insurance, you help provide financial security and support for those closest to you. Visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/Coffee and take the Compass Rose Coffee Calculator! We built a fun and easy-to-use tool that shows you how much Group Term Life Insurance* you can apply for, for what you personally spend on coffee each week! We challenge you to see just how affordable life insurance can be. *Underwritten by New York Life Insurance Company (NY, NY 10010) on Policy Form GMR-ER-P

SOURCES: http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster and http://www.emergency.cdc.gov

Many Life Insurance Plans do not cover Acts of War & Terrorism. Our Group Term Life Insurance Plan does!

Summer Road Trip Tips

Page 12: Compass Connection | Summer 2014 Publication

COMPASS OUTREACH COMPASS OUTREACH COMPASS OUTREACH

SERVICE. STABIL I TY . SECURITY.

1768 Business Center Drive Suite 3500

Reston, VA 20190(571) 449-2366(866) 368-7227

www.compassrosebenefits.com

COMPASS CONNECTION

SUMMER 2014

Compass Rose Contact Information:

COMPASS OUTREACH

SERVICE. STABIL I TY . SECURITY.

SUMMER 2014

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:Buzz Worthy News ........... 2

Health News ................. 3-7

Prescription Corner ........ 8

Summer Spotlight ............. 9

Specialty Products ... 10-11

Medical Claims UMR UMR (888) 438-9135 P.O. Box 8095 Wausau, WI 54402

Pre-certifications UMR (866) 494-4502

Express Scripts Express Scripts (877) 438-4449 P.O. Box 747000 www.express-scripts.com/Pharmacy Cincinnati,OH45274 Lab Program LabCorp (888) 438-9135

DentalandVisionDiscountProgram CareingtonInternationalCorporation (800) 290-0523 7400 Gaylord Parkway www.compassrosebenefits.com/Careington Frisco, TX 75034

CompassRoseBenefitsGroup CompassRoseBenefitsGroup (866) 368-7227 1768BusinessCenterDr.,Suite3500 [email protected] Reston,VA20190 www.compassrosebenefits.com

Social Networks www.twitter.com/CRBGinsurance www.compassrosebenefits.com/Pinterest www.facebook.com/CRBGinsurance www.compassrosebenefits.com/LinkedIn

Proud to provide quality

insurance solutions for over

65 years!

Have you signed

up for our online

Member Portal?

The Member Portal

allows you to view

your member

information at the

click of a button.

Turn to page 2 for

more details.

You just got off from a long day at work and all you want to do is go home. However, as always you are stuck in rush hour traffic. All of a sudden, the car behind you slams into you, causing you to hit the car in front of you, and the car in front of that hits the car in front of them. Now you find yourself in the middle of a four-car pileup that is not your fault.

Another concerned driver calls the cops and now a police officer is involved. You are explaining what happened to the police officer and are surprised when he hands you a ticket for “failure to maintain safe lookout.”

You decide to contest the ticket and hire an attorney, otherwise you will receive points on your license and your car insurance rates will go up. The attorney successfully helps you contest the ticket, but as you are walking out, they hand you a bill for over $200 (their hourly rate)!

What if you did not have to choose between paying for an expensive lawyer and taking a chance without one? With LegalShield you receive access to qualified attorneys 24/7 for your legal questions for just $15.95 a month!

Having access to an attorney comes with prestige. LegalShield lets you pull out the “let me call my attorney” card for help on almost any legal issue, no matter the severity. The next time you face a legal situation, you can have an attorney a phone call away. With a lawyer’s knowledge and expertise, you have a much better chance of coming out on top—and at an affordable price! Now you have both the power and the money in your hands.

Think back on that time you said “it will never happen to me,” but it did. What did it cost you? There may not have been time to search for a lawyer, so you overpaid for one at the last minute. Well now is your chance to win that money back! We are giving away a $200 gift card, equal to the average cost of one hour with a lawyer. Visit www.compassrosebenefits.com/200 to register for your chance to win.

SM