Traditional Wellness Articles

The Arizona State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a free health-benefits counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries and their families or caregivers. Our mission is to educate, advocate, counsel and empower people to make informed benefit decisions.
SHIP is an independent program funded by federal agencies and is not affiliated with the insurance industry.This program is a partnership of the Department of Economic Security Division of Aging and Adult Services and the Area Agencies on Aging.

How can the SHIP help you?
When you contact the SHIP office, we will link you with a local SHIP counselor, who can meet with you and help you with:

• Medicare Eligibility, Benefits and claim filing
• Medicaid (AHCCCS) Eligibility, Benefits and claim filing
• Medicare Part D (Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage)
• Long Term Care Insurance information
• Medicare Secondary Payor
• Other types of health insurance benefits
• Medigap insurance
• Medicare Advantage Plan options and enrollment
• Medicare Cost Sharing Programs and other Dual Eligible enrollment
• Medicare/Medicaid Fraud, Waste and Abuse
• Information regarding Medicare Costs and Deductibles

Who are the SHIP counselors?
SHIP Counselors are specialists trained in Medicare law and regulations, health insurance counseling and relevant insurance products. SHIP Counselors are not connected with any insurance company, nor are they licensed to sell insurance. Their purpose is to serve you objectively and confidentially.
What if I am homebound?
A SHIP Counselor will meet with you in your home if you cannot get out or don't have transportation.
How do I contact the SHIP?
To reach the SHIP, call 1-800-432-4040. If you need an appointment, our Counselors will refer you to the local Area Agency on Aging for your county of residence.
Is this service really free?
Yes, SHIP Counselors give their time and expertise at no cost to you. SHIP receives funding from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Administration on Aging.
Group presentations available
SHIP Counselors also conduct public presentations on Medicare, Medicare supplemental insurance, long term care insurance, Medicare Advantage options, Medicare/Medicaid fraud, waste and abuse and other issues of importance to beneficiaries and their families.
State Office:
DES Division of Aging and Adult Services
State Health Insurance and Assistance Program
1789 W. Jefferson St, Site Code 950A
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone 602-542-4446
Statewide Hotline 1-800-432-4040 (leave message)

 

 

Summer is Back in Town

 

Heat stroke or sunstroke, also known as hyperthermia, is a condition which occurs when the body absorbs more heat than it can handle. This usually happens due to excessive exposure to heat. This can be a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention.

 

How to avoid heat related illness?

• Drink plenty of fluids. One of the body's most important methods of temperature regulation is perspiration (sweating). If your body becomes dehydrated this prevents the production of sweat which causes the body temperature to rise swiftly. Did you know some medications can also diminish the body's ability to produce sweat? These medications include but are not limited to certain blood pressure medications, antipsychotic medications, some antidepressants, laxatives, and antihistamines.
• Dress appropriately. Wear lightweight, loose fitting clothing. Avoid dark colors which can absorb heat. A hat can limit your exposure to the sun.
• Avoid the midday sun.
• Wear sunscreen. A sunburn decreases the body's ability to cool itself.
• Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle.
• Avoid beverages containing alcohol, caffeine or large amounts of sugar as they can dehydrate the body,

 

Symptoms of heat related illness.

Weakness

Headache

Dizziness

Muscle cramps

Nausea and vomiting

Rapid heartbeat

Confusion

 

Heat stroke is a medical emergency so if you suspect an individual has heat stroke call 911. Move the person into a cool area. Try and get the individual to drink fluids. Do not offer ice cold fluids as this can cause stomach cramping. If the individual can assist you, offer a cool shower or bath. Do not wrap the person in wet towels or clothes as this can actually act as insulation and increase rather than decrease the body temperature. Cold compresses to the head, neck and groin will help cool the individual.

 

Remember, the best solution is to take precautions to avoid sun related illness!

 

 

Information about a dental program for persons who live in Maricopa County, but are not able to access a traditional dental office.

 

 

The link is for a message board/ website of interest to persons who are searching for resources about chronic illnesses.

http://www.orgsites.com/az/azchronicillnessnetwork/_pgg6.php3

 

 

The Changing Face of Women with Disabilities:
Are We Ready?

 

 

Do you have a cervical spinal cord injury and live in the United States? If so, you qualify for the following research survey. Arm and Hand Function Research Survey The Reeve-Irvine Research Center is conducting a research study to determine more details about the arm/hand impairments experienced by men and women with cervical spinal cord injuries and their knowledge about surgical options to increase function. The information gained from this study will be used to help scientists and medical doctors develop experiments addressing these issues, with the aim of developing therapeutic treatments for people living with SCI. For more information please contact Dr. Kim Anderson at kanderso@uci.edu or call 949-824-0056.

 

All information will be kept strictly confidential.

 

As you may have heard, there is now a free, no-strings attached, prescription drug discount card for up to %20 discount, and it even applies to pet medications! There are no special qualifications, and it may be used even if you already have prescription drug coverage. Amazed? I am, too. And, this is no hoax!

 

You can get your free discount card at a number of County locations in AZ and across the US.

 

For Maricopa County residents, visit the Maricopa County website for card outlet locations and details: http://www.maricopa.gov/public%5Fhealth/NACO

 

All others, go to the Caremark.com site to see if your county participates: https://naco.advancerx.com/advpcsrx_MemberSite/index.jsp

 

Finally, be sure to let others know about this helpful new program!

Hello Friends of MHA Arizona!

Did you know that men and women experience and express the symptoms of depression differently? It's true. Women are much more open about their symptoms of depression, such as sadness and emptiness whereas men tend to conceal, deny or express depression through anger or risky behavior.

The stereotypical "tough guy" image is often a barrier to diagnosis and treatment for men, especially older men. For many older men, depression means being weak or vulnerable, which dramatically conflicts with the "tough guy" image they so often subscribe to. Depression is a key factor in attempted or death by suicide and older men in America die by suicide more than any other age or gender group.

Breaking down the stigma of depression through awareness and education will result in more people being treated and recovering from this very real and common illness. Please read and share the article below about how Stereotypes Keep Men from Care.

To become more aware of the symptoms of depression and for a free and confidential depression screening, go to www.mentalhealthscreening.org or www.depressionaz.com. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, call the National Mental Health Association's Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.

Mind you health because mental health matters!

Cynthia Henry
Education & Outreach Coordinator
Mental Health Association of Arizona
6411 E. Thomas Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Ph 480.994.4407 ext. 16, Fax 480.994.4744
chenry@mhaarizona.org