Stay ahead of diabetes with essential support and resources
According to the American Diabetes Association, over 40 million Americans are living with diabetes — with 11 million people undiagnosed.*
American Diabetes Month is an opportunity for those living with diabetes — and those looking to lower their risk — to explore benefits that support prevention, early detection, and ongoing management.
Members enrolled in the Medical Plan have access to benefits and resources that support diabetes prevention and care, including the following.
Diabetes screening for members at high risk
Members age 40 or older at high risk for diabetes may be eligible for a diabetes screening once every three years as part of preventive care.**
Support through the diabetes management program
Teladoc’s health coaches are Certified Diabetes Educators, available 24/7 to answer questions about blood glucose readings, nutrition, or lifestyle changes.
Members living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes can get support managing their blood sugar with a diabetes management program available through Teladoc Health at no cost, including:
- a connected glucose meter
- unlimited test strips and lancets
- access to a certified health coach
Retinal screenings for those living with and without diabetes
Through the vision exam benefit, medically necessary retinal screenings are available for a set copay or at no cost to you when you use an optometrist or ophthalmologist who participates in the VSP network.
For those living with diabetes, the Medical Plan includes a retinal screening at no cost to you (the plan pays 100% with no deductible). For those who have not been diagnosed with diabetes, retinal screenings can help detect signs of eye disease and chronic health conditions, including diabetes, and are available for no more than a $39 copay.***
Unlimited nutritional coaching
Spring Health, the service provider for Mental Well-Being and Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) benefits, offers unlimited virtual coaching sessions with certified coaches, including nutritional coaching that may be helpful for those living with diabetes or looking to reduce their risk.
Members who have EAP access without medical coverage through the Board are also eligible for this valuable benefit.
Save money with preventive drugs
Your prescription drug benefits provide special coverage for designated preventive medications, including many types of insulin and non-insulin drugs to help those living with diabetes manage their condition. By choosing drugs on the plan’s Preventive Drug List, you can save money and get the medications you need to help you live a healthier life.
Take advantage of available resources
Your health is worth prioritizing. Explore the benefits available through the Board, schedule recommended screenings, and access wellness resources — from nutritional coaching to diabetes management support — to help prevent or manage diabetes and support long-term health.
*Source: American Diabetes Association, diabetes.org/about-diabetes/statistics/about-diabetes
**Retired members with medical coverage through the Board of Pensions and those enrolled in Triple-S or Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Solutions (formerly GeoBlue) also have preventive care benefits under their plans, but coverage details may differ. Consult your plan's provisions for details.
***Not available at retail chains.
