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“RAD” policy. This was something
that intrigued me as I had never
heard of such a policy. “RAD”
stands for Reflect Adjust Do. It
is relatively easy to reflect or
review a situation. However,
changing or adjusting can be
difficult and the final step of
actually doing something
different is never easy.
In May, the PEEHIP Board was
faced with the “RAD” policy.
They reflected and reviewed all
aspects of PEEHIP including
premiums, co-pays, prescription
coverages, and much more. Over
the course of two days, board
members looked at every possible
option and idea from the PEEHIP
staff. Ultimately, adjustments
to the program were necessary.
Of course, the “doing” part of
this policy falls on all PEEHIP
participants. The resulting
increases in costs were
necessary to keep the PEEHIP
program financially stable now
and in the future.
However, there are other things
we can do to keep our PEEHIP
program strong. First, we can
try to live healthy lifestyles;
changes in our diets and/or
habits will help produce
positive results. Next, we can
use our insurance wisely by
scheduling doctor visits rather
than emergency room visits when
dealing with a common sickness
or chronic illness, medications,
etc. whenever possible. These
and other modifications will
save PEEHIP and its participants
hundreds of dollars.
Lately, I have received phone
calls and emails from members
who are concerned about the
rising costs in PEEHIP’s
coverage. I tell each member
that PEEHIP provides extensive
benefits including prescription
drug coverage at a very
affordable price. The premium on
a similar program on the open
market would be over $1,000 a
month for a plan that is not
equal to PEEHIP’s benefits.
If you have attended one of the
nine ongoing Annual District
Meetings, you have had the
opportunity to hear from PEEHIP
Board Vice Chair Sarah Swindle
and health insurance
representatives. They provide
valuable information and are
always willing to help PEEHIP
participants with their
concerns. The changes will go
into effect October 1 for both
actives and retirees.
More challenges are ahead
including the upcoming elections
in November and the 2011
Legislative Session – stay tuned
and stay informed!
Sincerely,
Janice J. Charlesworth
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