DO YOU KNOW YOUR ABCs? February is American Heart Month

In 2022, heart disease caused one in every five deaths in the United States. You can reduce your risk and improve your heart health by following these ABCs:
  • A: Take aspirin as directed by your health care provider.
  • B: Control your blood pressure. Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, which increases their risk for heart attack or stroke more than any other risk factor.
  • C: Manage your cholesterol. It can build up in your arteries and cause heart disease.
  • S: Don’t smoke. If you smoke, quit.

Carrying extra weight may also negatively impact your heart health by increasing the risk of high blood pressure or high cholesterol. (Learn more about the ABCs at Million Hearts.)

Your Benefits Help You Be Heart Healthy

  • Your Health Plan: High blood pressure and high cholesterol often have no symptoms, so the only way to know if you have them is to get checked. Schedule an annual wellness checkup to discuss your risks and the benefits of aspirin with your doctor. This checkup and all USPSTF-recommended preventive services are covered at no cost to you when you choose an in-network provider.
  • Omada: Omada can help you lower your blood pressure and/or lose weight to reduce health risks by building sustainable, healthy habits. You’ll work with a dedicated health coach and have weekly interactive lessons. There is no cost to you and your eligible dependents age 18 and older. Ready to be a healthier you? Click here to get started.

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PAIN RELIEF in as Little as 10 Minutes a Day

Omada’s virtual physical therapy program provides convenient access to physical therapy, along with all the tools and resources you need to move with ease. Because it’s so convenient, 80% of program members finish their treatment plans, compared to just 35% of in-clinic patients.

Even better, 99% of Omada participants are highly satisfied with the quality of care! Here’s what you get when you sign up for Omada Muscle & Joint Care:

  • Same or next-day appointments: Meet with your physical therapist in as soon as 24 hours after you enroll.
  • One-on-one support: Get matched with a dedicated, licensed physical therapist for ongoing support, care plan adjustments, and more.
  • Personalized treatment plan: Follow your therapist’s exercise program using the videos and tools provided for you.
  • Easier access: Schedule your virtual or phone appointments at your convenience. No more driving to appointments or sitting in waiting areas.
  • Free exercise kit: Shipped directly to you at no extra cost.

Omada provides everything you need to get on the fast track to recovery, all from the comfort of home. Begin your journey here: SD Trust | Omada

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GO IN-NETWORK: Find a Partner for Good Health

Choosing a Primary Care Provider (PCP) means establishing a long-term relationship with someone who understands your health history. This can be helpful when you're unwell, have minor injuries, or need assistance with ongoing conditions.

If you don't have a PCP yet, consider using your annual wellness visit to "try out" a potential PCP. The Health Plan covers 100% of the allowed amount for this visit, along with all USPSTF-recommended preventive services.

Go to sdtrust.com, click on “Key Contact Information,” choose your Plan’s website, then begin your search. Here are some tips:

  • Choose a provider that’s right for you. For example, internal medicine providers typically work with adults, family practitioners see patients of all ages, OB/GYN providers specialize in women’s health, and pediatricians work with children.
  • Think about your preferences. Consider the office location, appointment hours, gender of the provider, and languages spoken. Include those that matter to you in your search criteria.
  • Is telehealth important to you? If so, be sure to search for a provider that offers telehealth services as an option, in addition to in-office visits.

After your visit, think about how it went. If it’s not a good fit, keep searching until you find the in-network PCP who’s right for you.

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