CELEBRATE SAFELY: Keep Germs to Yourself this Holiday Season

The best gift you can give others this year is to prevent the spread of COVID-19. That means masking up and staying six feet from relatives, friends, coworkers—and anyone else who is not in your immediate household.

Maybe you’re not worried about getting infected yourself. But you could unknowingly spread COVID-19 to others if you get infected but have no symptoms. For many people, the illness is mild; but it can be deadly for older adults and people with underlying conditions.

Before you RSVP to a holiday party, here are some things to ask the host:

  • How many people are expected?
  • Is there enough space to social distance?
  • Will everyone be wearing face masks (except for eating and drinking)?
  • Will people be seated at a table facing each other for a meal (a high-transmission setting)?
  • Will guests be asked to stay home if they feel sick?
  • Will you be able to avoid hugs and handshakes?

If you do decide to attend holiday gatherings, have a plan for what you (and your plus-one) will do if others aren’t taking precautions after all, or if the event makes you feel “overexposed” and uncomfortable.

Be informed. Know the CDC’s guidelines for safe social gatherings.

YOUR HEALTH CARE OPTIONS: Get Care the Way You Want It

Even if you “never” get sick, it’s a good idea to know your options. To get the most from your benefits, always choose in-network providers, however you choose to access care:

  • Telemedicine allows you to have online or phone visits with your regular doctor (if he/she offers this service).
  • Virtual care gives you online or phone access to a doctor 24/7 who can diagnose conditions and prescribe medication. See our Virtual Care infographic for your Health Plan’s details.
  • Walk-in clinics: Choose one in your Health Plan’s network, not just any clinic that says it will take your insurance.
  • In-network doctor: Search for one on your Carrier’s website, then call ahead to schedule an appointment.
  • Mental wellness: It’s just as important as physical health! See the Your Mental Health Matters infographic to view all of your options.
  • Click here for more info from your Carrier:

GOT QUESTIONS? The Trust Administrative Office/Zenith Has Answers

Now it’s easier than ever to get answers online: our short video shows you how. Just remember 1-2-3:

  1. Start with sdtrust.com. You’ll be able to find many of the answers to your general benefit questions, like how to enroll, who you can enroll as a dependent, and how to make a change to your benefits if you have a mid-year qualifying event.
  2. Go to edge.zenith-american.com. Create an account and then login with your secure password to see your eligibility, enrollment information and enrolled dependents. You can also communicate securely with the Trust Office customer service team if you have questions or concerns about your benefits.
  3. To use your benefits, go to your Carrier’s website. Register for a secure personal account with your carriers (like Kaiser Permanente, Providence, and Regence). Search for a provider, get benefit coverage details, see your explanation of benefits (EOBs), pay bills, view your health information, and more.
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