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Public Employees' Benefit Board

Updated FAQ on the Health Engagement Model (HEM) Program
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PEBB members are asking about changes to their health plan benefits for 2012. Here are answers to some questions about the Health Engagement Model (HEM) program.
 

Q: What is the Health Engagement Model -- HEM?
The Health Engagement Model (HEM) encourages participants with medical coverage through the Public Employees’ Benefit Board to use, adopt, and maintain more healthy behavior, and help contain health care costs for themselves and the system as a whole. The program focuses on multiple areas, including weight management and quitting tobacco.
 
Q: Why is the Board implementing this model?
Better health reaps benefits for both employees and the system overall. With medical costs rising at many times the rate of inflation and accounting for an increasing percentage of total compensation, PEBB has undertaken a number of efforts to hold down these increases. HEM is designed around actions that will help with improving health and well being. It also responds to what employees are looking for. In a 2010 survey of adult PEBB employees, 91 percent of employees said they would like to maintain or lose weight, and 65 percent of those who use tobacco said they would like to quit. HEM is designed to help members do that.
 
Q: Will participating in the HEM program help lower my costs?
By choosing to participate in HEM, you will have $20-35 per month less deducted from your pay than PEBB members who do not.
 
Q: How do I participate in HEM?
Participation is easy, confidential and in your control.

Step 1: Complete a confidential online health assessment from your health plan, which includes questions about health and health-related activities.
 
Step 2: Participate in two e-lessons of your choice that focus on health education.
Your health plan provides resources you can use to support any action you may want to take toward improving your health.
 
Q: How will HEM help me if I have a chronic condition?
HEM gives members a tool to more actively participate in their health. This is especially important for people who have or are at risk of chronic disease. These illnesses are principally diabetes, heart disease and cancer. HEM has opportunities for education and assistance on different actions and behaviors that can make a big difference in both preventing and managing these diseases.
 
Q: Who will have information about my participation?
The process is completely confidential. Your health assessment and e-lesson data do not go to insurance companies or the Public Employees’ Benefit Board. You may choose to share your health assessment information with your provider. The information is in your control.
 
Q: Do I have to lose weight, quit tobacco or meet any other goal?
The only expectation is that members follow through on their commitment to take the assessment and education steps. No one will be held accountable for a measure of success – just for taking the these steps.