The Global Positioning System invented in 1978 by Roger L. Easton has assisted travelers with getting to their destination quicker. How do you navigate the medical plan provided by Rensselaer to ensure that you and your family are receiving the best medical care in the timeliest manner?
Curtis Powell
Once you enroll in our medical plan, we encourage you to choose a Primary Care Physician (PCP) and establish a relationship so he or she can assist you with developing a plan of medical care. Our medical provider, Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan (CDPHP), has a convenient feature at findadoc.cdphp.com to help you locate a PCP within the comprehensive CDPHN network.
Through Health Coach Connection, you have access to Personal Health Coaches who are specially trained health-care professionals, such as nurses, dietitians, and respiratory therapists, who will support you and your family with chronic disease management through telephonic interactions. To talk to a Health Coach, call (800) 365-4180.
If you receive a call from CDPHP, it is likely coming from the case management department. The case management department consists of a team of nurses and social workers to assist you if you have a chronic health problem or just need assistance in understanding your doctors’ plan of care and the medications you are on. These conversations are confidential and are not shared with anyone, unless you give specific permission. If you need help in understanding your medical plan, do not wait for their call. Simply call the single-source referral line at (888) 942-3747 and leave a message.
Knowing how to navigate your prescription drug benefits can save you money. CVS/caremark enables you to take advantage of potential savings on medications taken regularly. If you are taking maintenance medications, ordering these medications in 90-day supplies generally costs less than refilling three 30-day prescriptions. There are two ways to save with 90-day supplies: through the CVS/caremark Mail Service, or at a CVS/pharmacy. The same quality service is provided whether you choose delivery or retail pick-up at a CVS/pharmacy.
Furthermore, we have implemented the Rx for Less program. This is a program for all CDPHN participants, offering deep discounts on a specific list of drugs when purchased at Price Chopper, CVS, Walmart, Hannaford, or ShopRite. Many generic prescription drugs are available for as little as $1, beating the price of many other drug club programs by 90 percent. There’s no sign-up process or registration fee. Simply present your CDPHN ID card when purchasing your prescription. For a complete list of drugs covered under this benefit, please visit www.cdphp.com/members/rx-corner/rx-for-less.
Now it is time for you to take action and navigate the plan by visiting www.cdphp.com and clicking on Members. Also be sure to create a login for the secure member site, to view benefits, designate a PCP, download forms, and register for Life Points®, which can earn you rewards in the form of gift cards to popular retailers, simply by taking an active role in the medical care for you and your family.
Curtis Powell, SPHR
Vice President for Human Resources