State of Emergency Issued in Washington due to Severe Weather
The Governor of Washington has declared a state of emergency for the following counties due to severe weather: Clallam, Grays Harbor, Island, Jefferson, Lewis, King, Kitsap, Pierce, Mason, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston, and Whatcom. Aetna (the Plan’s Administrator) waives precertification/prior approval requirements for members identified as potentially being affected. If you are impacted by the emergency or have questions regarding precertification/prior approval, please call us at 1-800-593-2354.
Express Scripts (the Plan’s Pharmacy Benefit Manager) has activated an emergency benefit override that allows pharmacies, at the point of sale (POS), to override certain benefit coverage/edits such as an early refill during a government-defined emergency. In addition, if your home delivery of medications is affected by the emergency, you may provide a temporary alternate address (either online at www.express-scripts.com or by calling 1-800-818-6717) or request a local fill as needed. The Emergency Access to Benefits/Refill Too Soon override process is implemented with an effective date of Nov. 18, 2021, and an expiration date of Dec. 18, 2021.
State of Emergency in Maryland Due to Severe Weather
The Governor of Maryland has declared a state of emergency for all counties due to severe weather. Aetna (the Plan’s Administrator) waives precertification/prior approval requirements for members identified as potentially being affected. If you are impacted by the emergency or have questions regarding precertification/prior approval, please call us at 1-800-593-2354.
Express Scripts (the Plan’s Pharmacy Benefit Manager) has activated an emergency benefit override that allows pharmacies, at the point of sale (POS), to override certain benefit coverage/edits such as an early refill during a government-defined emergency. In addition, if your home delivery of medications is affected by the emergency, you may provide a temporary alternate address (either online at www.express-scripts.com or by calling 1-800-818-6717) or request a local fill as needed. The Emergency Access to Benefits/Refill Too Soon override process is implemented with an effective date of Oct. 29, 2021, and expiration date of Nov. 5, 2021.
From The CEO
As we approach the holiday season, one of the busiest times of the year, make sure you continue to prioritize your health. Read below for information to help you close out the year in a great way.
National Diabetes Month
November is National Diabetes Month, a time when organizations around the country raise awareness about a disease that affects 10.5 percent of the U.S. population. According to the CDC, a majority of people with prediabetes do not know they have it. That is why this year’s National Diabetes Month campaign focuses on prediabetes and preventing diabetes. By making healthy lifestyle changes, such as improving your diet and working with your doctor to create a health plan, it is possible to prevent Type 2 diabetes and reverse prediabetes.
Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP) members looking to manage their diabetes should take advantage of the Livongo-Remote Diabetes Monitoring Program. The program is offered at no cost to eligible members and offers personalized support through a cellular-enabled meter and mobile app. The main goal is to help you make good and effective decisions about diabetes management. For more information, visit the Livongo website.
Long-Term Care Awareness Month
November is historically the month to recognize the importance of Long-Term Care Insurance. With larger portions of the U.S population expected to reach age 65 and older in the coming years, the need for long-term support services is growing. Visit the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance’s website to learn more.
AFSPA provides free Long Term Care consulting services for members interested in finding a plan. This special service will advise of any available policies that custom fit your caregiving needs and affordability. Members may also want to consider our Group Enhanced Life insurance plan, which offers an Accelerated Benefit Option (ABO) that allows you to use a portion of your principal sum benefit towards home care, assisted living and nursing home expenses if you become chronically ill. While it doesn’t replace long term care insurance, it may assist with any future care giving costs.
National Family Caregivers Month
In honor of National Family Caregivers Month, we want to honor and support the individuals who hold such a special place in many of our families. Caregivers are tasked with many, often competing, responsibilities, which take a significant emotional, physical and financial toll. Providing caregivers with the right resources can improve their overall well-being to allow them to provide better care for longer. The Senior Living Foundation (SLF) and U.S. State Department will be hosting a special webinar aimed at empowering caregivers on Wednesday, November 3. AFSPA’s AbleTo program is also a great resource. The eight-week video conferencing treatment program is designed to address members’ unique emotional and behavioral health needs. Learn more and see if you are eligible for this program here.
Open Season
Open Season begins Monday, November 8. Just like last year, COVID-19 has prevented us from traveling for the occasion. We will miss connecting with you in person, but we hope you join us for one of our so we can bring you up to speed on open season opportunities and offerings. Look for more details on upcoming plan changes in the .
Happy Thanksgiving
Whether you will be celebrating in-person with loved ones or from a distance, I want to wish you all a safe and peaceful Thanksgiving. This truly American holiday’s message of gratitude and unity holds especially true after a difficult past two years. I hope you thoroughly enjoy your delicious feasts, but don’t let the holiday pull you completely off track in your wellness journey. Our Mediterranean Wellness, Health Coaching and Digital Coaching programs offer great food control coping mechanisms and diet management.
Stay up-to-date on all things AFSPA through our website, blog, social media, You Tube channel and podcasts. We are excited to share our AFSPA Talks November episodes with you – the month is jam-packed with great discussions about Diabetes, Open Season, and more. Visit our Podcast page to learn more about upcoming topics as well as past sessions. Your health is always the top priority for us, and I thank you for entrusting us with your care.
To Your Health,
Paula S. Jakub, RHU
CEO, AFSPA
Executive Director, Senior Living Foundation
State of Emergency Issued in New York Due to Flooding and Severe Weather
The Governor of New York has declared a state of Emergency for the following counties due to flooding and severe weather: Bronx, Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Greene, Kings, Montgomery, Nassau, New York, Orange, Otsego, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Schenectady, Schoharie, Suffolk, Sullivan, Tioga, Ulster and Westchester. Aetna (the Plan’s Administrator) waives precertification/prior approval requirements for members identified as potentially being affected. If you are impacted by the emergency or have questions regarding precertification/prior approval, please call us at 1-800-593-2354.
Express Scripts (the Plan’s Pharmacy Benefit Manager) has activated an emergency benefit override that allows pharmacies, at the point of sale (POS), to override certain benefit coverage/edits such as an early refill during a government-defined emergency. In addition, if your home delivery of medications is affected by the emergency, you may provide a temporary alternate address (either online at www.express-scripts.com or by calling 1-800-818-6717) or request a local fill as needed. The Emergency Access to Benefits/Refill Too Soon override process is implemented with an effective date of Oct. 27, 2021, and expiration date of Nov. 3, 2021.
State of Emergency Issued in New Jersey Due to Flooding and Severe Weather
The Governor of New Jersey has declared a state of Emergency for the following counties due to flooding and severe weather: Monmouth, Ocean, and Somerset. Aetna (the Plan’s Administrator) waives precertification/prior approval requirements for members identified as potentially being affected. If you are impacted by the emergency or have questions regarding precertification/prior approval, please call us at 1-800-593-2354.
Express Scripts (the Plan’s Pharmacy Benefit Manager) has activated an emergency benefit override that allows pharmacies, at the point of sale (POS), to override certain benefit coverage/edits such as an early refill during a government-defined emergency. In addition, if your home delivery of medications is affected by the emergency, you may provide a temporary alternate address (either online at www.express-scripts.com or by calling 1-800-818-6717) or request a local fill as needed. The Emergency Access to Benefits/Refill Too Soon override process is implemented with an effective date of Oct. 27, 2021, and expiration date of Nov. 3, 2021.
State of Emergency Issued in Madison County, MO Due to Tornado
Madison County, MO has issued a state of emergency for the Madison County due to tornado. Aetna (the Plan’s Administrator) waives precertification/prior approval requirements for members identified as potentially being affected. If you are impacted by the emergency or have questions regarding precertification/prior approval, please call us at 1-800-593-2354.
Express Scripts (the Plan’s Pharmacy Benefit Manager) has activated an emergency benefit override that allows pharmacies, at the point of sale (POS), to override certain benefit coverage/edits such as an early refill during a government-defined emergency. In addition, if your home delivery of medications is affected by the emergency, you may provide a temporary alternate address (either online at www.express-scripts.com or by calling 1-800-818-6717) or request a local fill as needed. The Emergency Access to Benefits/Refill Too Soon override process is implemented with an effective date of Oct. 25, 2021, and expiration date of Nov. 25, 2021.
From the CEO
Greetings AFSPA Family,
Flu Shot – it’s that time of year
COVID-19 is still front and center when it comes to our health concerns, but let’s not forget about the upcoming flu season. Experts acknowledge the possibility of a severe season this year due to reduced population immunity following the lack of flu virus activity since March 2020. The CDC recommends vaccines as the most effective way to reduce your risk for seasonal flu and its complications. It is safe to get both your flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
Getting your flu shot provides another opportunity to earn a $25 Wellness reward through the Simple Steps program. To learn more about this and other healthy action rewards, visit our webpage.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I want to stress the importance of mammograms and wellness checkups. Because regular screenings are a vital part of early detection of breast cancer, the Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP) provides full coverage for mammograms in accordance with the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPTF). This includes 3D breast tomosynthesis. Annual breast cancer screenings also count as a healthy action as part of the Simple Steps to Living Well Together program, so you can earn a $25 reward toward your wellness incentive fund.
As we focus on raising awareness for breast cancer this month, let’s also ensure we and our loved ones are keeping up with potentially life-saving screenings.
American Pharmacists Month
AFSPA is grateful for pharmacists and their contributions to healthcare and the community. Join us in thanking our pharmacists and spreading the word about the tremendous work they do. FSBP members can contact ESI pharmacists with questions about prescriptions and routine medications by logging in to the Express Scripts online portal. You can also call and speak with a pharmacist at 1-800-818-6717.
Halloween Safety
For children (and some adults), October brings the joy of Halloween. If you plan on attending themed events or taking little ones trick-or-treating, consider taking increased safety measures due to COVID-19. If you plan on giving out candy, avoiding direct contact with trick-or-treaters and setting up stations with pre-bagged treats is recommended. Don’t forget to pair a mask with any costume and try to keep a safe distance from others, even when outdoors. For more detailed Halloween safety guidelines, click here.
If you plan on indulging in Halloween candy this season, make sure you are also taking care of your teeth! October is National Dental Hygiene Month – observe it by keeping your oral health on track. Learning more about our four dental plans is a good place to start. We offer open enrollment year-round, as well as coverage options for Self, Self Plus One and Family.
Be on the lookout for a new slate of podcast episodes this month. We’re kicking it off with a discussion about breast cancer and second opinions with PinnacleCare on October 4. And, just in case you missed any of our past blogs or podcast episodes, you can visit our website or podcast channel to catch up. Thank you for your continued trust. We look forward to connecting with you this fall and beyond.
To Your Health,
Paula S. Jakub, RHU
CEO, AFSPA
Executive Director, Senior Living Foundation
FSBP Partners with Cleveland Clinic London in the United Kingdom
Featured Partner: Cleveland Clinic London
The Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP) proudly welcomes our newest direct billing partner, Cleveland Clinic London, located in the United Kingdom.
Our direct billing arrangement with Cleveland Clinic London covers inpatient including day cases over 24 hours*, accidental injury*, routine annual physical exam* and all covered outpatient medical services**.
Cleveland Clinic London has two locations in London, United Kingdom - Cleveland Clinic Portland Place Outpatient Centre, which opened its doors on September 14, 2021 and Cleveland Clinic London Hospital, which is scheduled to open in early 2022.
Cleveland Clinic London is equipped with the latest technology and offers the following features:
- 184 inpatient beds (including 29 ITU beds)
- Eight operating rooms
- Full imaging suite
- Endoscopy and catheterization labs
- Day case rooms for surgery
- Full neurological suite with rehabilitation
FSBP members can schedule appointments with Cleveland Clinic London online or by calling +44 (0)20 3423 7500.
We strive to simplify your care overseas and are delighted to have this billing arrangement. If you have overseas direct billing questions, please visit our FSBP Overseas Partners page on our website, email us, or call us at 202-833-4910 for assistance.
Thank you for being a valued FSBP member.
*Inpatient, accidental injury, and routine annual physical exam: Member pays no deductible. FSBP pays 100% of covered services.
**Outpatient: Member pays applicable calendar year deductible and 10% coinsurance. FSBP pays 90% of covered services.
State of Emergency Issued in California Due to Fawn Fire
The Governor of California has declared a state of emergency for Shasta County due to Fawn Fire. Aetna (the Plan’s Administrator) waives precertification/prior approval requirements for members identified as potentially being affected. If you are impacted by the emergency or have questions regarding precertification/prior approval, please call us at 1-800-593-2354.
Express Scripts (the Plan’s Pharmacy Benefit Manager) has activated an emergency benefit override that allows pharmacies, at the point of sale (POS), to override certain benefit coverage/edits such as an early refill during a government-defined emergency. In addition, if your home delivery of medications is affected by the emergency, you may provide a temporary alternate address (either online at www.express-scripts.com or by calling 1-800-818-6717) or request a local fill as needed. The Emergency Access to Benefits/Refill Too Soon override process is implemented with an effective date of Sept. 24, 2021, and expiration date of Oct. 23, 2021.
FSBP Partners with SinoUnited Health in Shanghai, China
Featured Partner: SinoUnited Health
The Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP) proudly welcomes our newest direct billing partner, SinoUnited Health, located in Shanghai, China.
Our direct billing arrangement with SinoUnited Health covers inpatient*, accidental injury*, routine annual physical exam*, all covered outpatient medical services** and includes the following facilities:
- Century Park Clinic
- Hangzhou Kerry Clinic
- Huangpu Riverside Clinic
- New Bund Clinic
- Shanghai Centre Clinic
- Zhangjiang Clinic
SinoUnited Health was established in 2015 and specializes in chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, integrating general practitioner and specialist systems to provide effective and holistic care. The facilities offer convenient appointment options through chat, online, and telephone.
We strive to simplify your care overseas and are delighted to have this billing arrangement. If you have overseas direct billing questions, please visit our FSBP Overseas Partners page on our website, email us, or call us at 202-833-4910 for assistance.
Thank you for being a valued FSBP member.
*Inpatient, accidental injury, and routine annual physical exam: Member pays no deductible. FSBP pays 100% of covered services.
**Outpatient: Member pays applicable calendar year deductible and 10% coinsurance. FSBP pays 90% of covered services.
State of Emergency Issued in Texas due to Tropical Storm Nicholas
The Governor of Texas has declared a state of emergency for the following counties due to Tropical Storm Nicholas: Aransas, Brazoria, Calhoun, Chambers, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Newton, Nueces, Orange, Refugio, San Patricio, Victoria and Wharton. Aetna (the Plan’s Administrator) waives precertification/prior approval requirements for members identified as potentially being affected. If you are impacted by the emergency or have questions regarding precertification/prior approval, please call us at 1-800-593-2354.
Express Scripts (the Plan’s Pharmacy Benefit Manager) has activated an emergency benefit override that allows pharmacies, at the point of sale (POS), to override certain benefit coverage/edits such as an early refill during a government-defined emergency. In addition, if your home delivery of medications is affected by the emergency, you may provide a temporary alternate address (either online at www.express-scripts.com or by calling 1-800-818-6717) or request a local fill as needed. The Emergency Access to Benefits/Refill Too Soon override process is implemented with an effective date of Sept. 13, 2021, and an expiration date of Oct. 13, 2021.