UMC Health System

January 2019

From Peter’s Desk by Peter Laverty This month I would like to introduce or reintroduce you to Medicares’ Blue Button. Medicare’s Blue Button is an online computer tool you can use to access your health information securely. You can decide to share that information with your doctors, loved ones, or anyone else of your choosing. It’s available on the MyMedicare.gov website and helps you keep track your Medicare claims, and more. Medicare’s new MyMedicare.gov’s Blue Button makes it available for you to download your personal health information to a file on your computer. Medicare’s Blue Button is safe, secure, reliable, and easy to use. You can use the Blue Button to: • Download and save a file of your personal health information on your computer or another device • Print or email the information to share with others after you’ve saved the file • Import your saved file into other computer-based personal health management tools Medicare’s Blue Button 2.0 lets you connect your Medicare health information to other services you trust, like: • Applications (apps) • Computer-based programs • Research programs Blue Button 2.0 gives you a wide range of options to manage and improve your health. Options might include things like: • Using an app to keep track of the regular tests and services you need based on your personal health information. The app can send you reminders when it’s time to schedule your next appointment. • Using an app or another computer program to track your health over long periods of time. This can help you, and your doctor make better decisions about your health. • Using an app to organize your health information in an easy-to-read format, like charts and graphs. This can help you keep track of important information, like your medicines, allergies, or results of lab tests. • Connecting your data to research projects. Researchers can use your data to expand their knowledge about a range of health issues. How do I download & share my health information? • Log into MyMedicare.gov. Look for the Blue Button as you search claims, and view your “On the Go Report.” • Select the Blue Button to create a downloadable file with your MyMedicare.gov information. • Select the information you want to download and select “Submit.” • Save the file to your computer. If you use an app to download your Blue Button data, the above steps may happen automatically. Why should I download & share my health information? By using Medicare’s Blue Button and Blue Button 2.0 to download and share your personal health information, you: • Get control over your health information • Make it easy to share your health information with doctors, caregivers, or anyone you choose • Get help with managing and improving your health through a wide range of apps and other computer-based services How do I protect my information? Since you control access to your health information, it’s your responsibility to take steps to keep it safe. Treat your personal and health information the same way you’d treat your banking or other confidential information. Here are some important things to remember: • Keep your login information private and secure. • You may want to download your information to a CD, flash drive or mobile app. We recommend you use encrypted and password- protected flash drives, CDs, and mobile apps. • If you want to send your information by email, encrypt the message. • Keep paper copies in a safe and secure place that you can control. • Blue Button and Blue Button 2.0 are optional services. You decide whether you want to share your personal information with others. • Medicare reviews all of the organizations that want to connect to Blue Button 2.0. But, it’s up to you to choose the apps or other services you want to use.

Seniors Are Special is a service of UMC Health System and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center 602 Indiana Ave • Lubbock, TX 79415 • 806-775-8760 Seniors are Special News – January 2019 2 Great Northeast SAS Travels to the Seniors are Special News – January 2019 3

UMC Receives Multiple Press Ganey Awards

UMC Health System is pleased to announce it has been named a 2018 TEXAS TECH Pinnacle of Excellence Award® winner and a 2018 Guardian of Excellence Award, HEARING CENTER by Press Ganey. In addition, UMC Physicians was named a 2018 Guardian of OFFERS DISCOUNTS Excellence Award winner. TO SENIORS ARE The Pinnacle of Excellence Award recognizes top-performing clients from health care organizations nationwide on the basis of extraordinary achievement SPECIAL MEMBERS and consistently high levels of excellence for at least three years in multiple areas. This award marks UMC is among the top three teaching hospitals for patient experience, alongside MD Anderson Cancer Center and UCLA Medical Center. The areas UMC is recognized in are: patient experience and employee engagement. This is the fourth year UMC has received this recognition. The Guardian of Excellence Award honors those who have sustained performance in the top 5 percent of all Press Ganey clients for on year. Receiving this award means UMC and UMC Physicians have achieved the 95th percentile or above in performance in the area of employee engagement. “We are proud to partner with UMC to support their endeavor to provide safe, high-quality, patient-centered care,” said Patrick T. Ryan, CEO of Press Ganey. Texas Tech Department of “They are truly dedicated to delivering exceptional care in the communities Otolaryngology is the hearing they serve, and their commitment to capturing and acting on patient experience center for our SAS members. It feedback is a very powerful demonstration of this.” Each of these Press Ganey Awards are highly regarded symbols of is operated by the Texas Tech achievement in the health care industry. According to Aaron Davis, UMC Chief School of Medicine Department Experience Officer, the awards represent important recognition from the industry’s of Otolaryngology which is leader in measuring, understanding and improving the patient experience and staff engagement. located on the 4th floor of the Texas Tech Medical Pavilion Proposed Rule Would Change Medicare D & C Plans in the Surgery/Otolaryngology Clinic. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a proposed rule that would allow Part D and Medicare Advantage plans to use additional Hearing and balance testing, tools to reduce prescription drug prices. Some of these tools rely on weakening hearing aids, and cochlear the protections for consumers who take certain medications in what is known as implants are just some of the the “protected classes.” In general, plans that offer prescription drug coverage must include on their services offered by our friendly formulary, or list of covered drugs, at least two medications in each “class,” or and highly trained providers. type of drug. They must, however, include all medications available in certain If we can assist you or a protected classes – including anti-depressants, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, family member with any of immunosuppressants for transplant rejection, antiretrovirals and antineoplastics. The proposed rule would allow plans to use more utilization management your hearing or balance needs, controls, like step therapy and prior authorization for medications in these give us a call at (806) 743-2373 classes and would allow plans to remove medications in these classes from their to make an appointment or to formularies in some circumstances. get more information. Be sure We are troubled by this proposal – the protections for these categories of drugs were put in place because the medications are not easily substituted and let us know that you are a and because interruptions in drug therapies could have significant individual member of Seniors Are Special, and public health consequences. While we appreciate the need to control as we offer you a 10% discount drug pricing increases, impeding access to needed medications cannot be the on all hearing aids! We look mechanism to do so. forward to serving you and your The proposed rule is not all bad though. Other aspects include improvements to e-prescribing, expanded information included in beneficiary notifications family at Texas Tech Physicians about lower-cost medication alternatives, and implementing statutory changes of Lubbock Audiology. that preserve the right of pharmacists to notify patients of lower pricing options. Seniors are Special News – January 2019 4

UMC Activities Center – Julie Dominguez The UMC Activities Center is a place that can help you get active and stay physically fit in a group setting. Whether you are looking for a low-intensity class, a high-intensity class or something in-between, we have what you are looking for. At the UMC Activities Center, everyone is welcome and we will be happy to help you find a class that meets your needs. Check out our classes: Exercising/Conditioning Mobility and Balance with Julie (MF @ 10:35 AM): Focus is directed towards improvement of balance and gentle developmental movements to enhance mobility. Use of chairs for stability may be utilized. Emphasis is on basic skills and building strength. Intensity Level: Low Intro to Wellness Classes with Julie (MWF @ 2:00 PM): An introductory class to help get started with exercise or a class to stay involved with and enjoy the social benefits of exercise. The class consists of singing, stretching, strengthening and range of motion exercises performed seated and some standing. Stretching bands, dumbbells and body weight are utilized as resistance. Intensity level: Low Exercise 1 with Ashley (TTH @ 2:00 PM): Emphasis on stamina, strength, balance and some stretching. Exercises are performed sitting and standing. Intensity Level: Low Exercise 2 with Robin (TTH @11:00 AM): Exercises are performed standing and sitting. Emphasis on flexibility, strengthening, balance, and stretching. Also includes rhythmic activities. Intensity Level: Low to Moderate Aerobics with Robin (TTH @ 8:30 AM): Continuous cardiovascular movements along with strength training and flexibility. Emphasis on building endurance through movement. Minimum Physical Requirements: able to step side to side, forward and back in a row without losing balance. Intensity Level: Moderate to High Total Body with Janet/Sharon (MWF @ 12:00 PM): Conditioning class-emphasizing endurance, strengthening, stretching, and shaping. Includes standing and seated activities and use of various equipment. Intensity Level: Moderate Shape Up with Sharon (M @ 5:30 PM): Conditioning class, emphasizing aerobics, strengthening and stretching, which will include standing and mat activities. Minimum Physical Requirements: Able to walk briskly, hop, easily move from standing position to a mat and sustain rigorous exercise for 20-30 minutes. Intensity Level: Moderate Strictly Strength with Ashley/Sharon (MWF @ 8:00 AM): Class that emphasizes resistance training to build strength/ muscle. The class will utilize body weight, dumbbell, barbells, and band exercises. Improve muscular endurance, strength, bone density, and reshape your body. Intensity level: Moderate to High Mind/Body Seated Yoga-Pilates with Larry (W @ 10:35 AM): Emphasis is on flexibility, range of motion, strengthening, and balance. Primarily seated exercises, ending with relaxing activity/meditation. The goal of the class is to maintain and enhance functioning for daily living. Intensity Level: Low T’ai Chi Chih with Larry (TTH @ 9:30 AM): A Western style of movement related to Tai Chi that improves well-being. The class involves slow, continuous, circular, shifting movement to stimulate inner energy chi flow. Will increase balance and flexibility. May be performed standing or sitting. Easy to learn. Intensity Level: Low T’ai Chi Ch’uan with Larry (TTH @ 3:00 PM): Slow moving activity; Movements are flowing, circular, and weight shifting. A soft martial art technique (mind and body) emphasizing health, balance and energy. Done as individual movements or as a series (a Form). Minimum Physical Requirement: the ability to stand for 20 minutes (Forms taught: Wu Hao, Yang Short Form (37) and others). Intensity Level: Low Stretch and Strengthen with Anita (F @ 12:30 PM): This comfortable paced class combines floor and standing exercises consisting of gentle toning and stretching to increase mobility, flexibility, balance, and strength. Participants must be able to get up and down from the floor but may use a chair as an aid. Intensity Level: Low to Moderate. Yoga AM with Ping (MWF @ 9:15 AM): Uses the physical postures, breathing practices, relaxation and meditation to harmonize body, mind, and spirit as well as increase strength, flexibility and balance. Intensity Level: Low to Moderate Pilates with Sheila (TTH @ 11:00 AM): System of strengthening and stretching exercises designed to develop the body’s core, mobilize the spine and build flexibility. Increases range of motion in all joints and movements of the body. Exercises include both mat and standing activities. Intensity level: Low to Moderate Yoga PM with Linda/Anita on MW(@ 5:30 PM): Set of physical exercises or postures, sequences of postures and conscious breathing used to develop awareness, strength and flexibility. Minimum Physical Requirements: able to get up Continued Page 5 Seniors are Special News – January 2019 5

UMC Activities Center – Julie Dominguez (continued) and down from mat and sustain standing postures for a period of time. Intensity level: Moderate

Dance Learn to Dance with Jim and Linda (M @ 6:30 PM & W @ 3:30 PM): Designed to teach basic dance steps to partner dances. Dances taught may include Waltz, Country Western Two-Step, Tango, Rumba, etc. For optimal results bring a dance partner. Intensity Level: Low Limited Mobility Dance with Gail (TH @ 11:00 AM): Designed for individuals who love to dance, but may not be stable enough to participate in an hour-long standing class. Participants may dance while seated, or stand with a chair/walker for support if necessary. Total body movement is encouraged; moving arms, shoulders, torso and head. Various music genres will be used. Intensity Level: Low Line Dance Vocabulary (1) with Gail (T @ 4:00 PM & W @ 1:15 PM): Language of basic steps will be taught and explained through a “feet on” experience with a detailed walk-through. Each basic step will be incorporated into a dance exercise that is vocally cued with music. Basic line dance steps taught may include Waltz, Cha Cha, Rumba, Tango, Mambo, and Two-Step. The class prepares you for Beginning Line Dance. Intensity Level: Low to Moderate Line Dancing for Fun with Don (F @ 10:45 AM): Should be able to execute basic steps. Intensity Level: Low to Moderate Line Dance Level 2 with Gail (T @ 5:00 PM & W @ 2:15 PM): Experience and knowledge of Line Dance Vocabulary required. Intensity Level: Low to Moderate Line Dance Level 3 with LouAnn (M @ 1:15 PM): Preparation for more advanced levels of Line Dance. Need to have mastered Line Dance Vocabulary and understand basics of Beginning Line Dance. Dance to upbeat music while improving on the cha-cha, waltz, mambo, 2-step, and rumba. Intensity Level: Low to Moderate Line Dance Level 4 with LouAnn (M & W @ 10:40 AM): Should have mastered Vocabulary and Beginner Classes. Emphasis is on learning new routines and dances. Intensity Level: Moderate to High Music in Motion with Ashley (M @3:15 PM): Move your body with rhythmic beats in this unique infusion class. Inspired by music this full body session is sure to provide a perfect atmosphere for letting loose, getting energized and toning up. Intensity Level: Moderate Reminder: Line Dance Vocabulary with Gail starts from the beginning of the “feet on” experience on Tuesday, January 2nd @ 4:00 PM. You are more than welcome to start your “feet on” experience at any time but January 2nd will start with the most basic steps. Line Dance Vocabulary with Gail meets on Tuesday @ 4:00 PM & Wednesday @ 1:15 PM. New Classes!: The UMC Activities Center is happy to announce we are adding two new classes to our schedule in January. Music In Motion with Ashley will meet Mondays at 3:15 pm and Limited Mobility Dance with Gail will meet Thursdays at 12:15 pm. American Red Cross Home Fire Campaign Offers Free Smoke Alarms an Education to Lubbock Seniors Every day in communities like yours fires strip families of their homes and belongings.And, every day dedicated American Red Cross volunteers respond to house fires to offer comfort in people’s darkest hours. We address urgent needs like food, clothing, and lodging, as well as provide one-on-one support to help survivors recover. In addition to helping families rebuild their lives after a house fire, the Red Cross is working to protect people against these crises through our Home Fire Campaign. Red Cross volunteers and community partners in Lubbock and surrounding communities install FREE smoke alarms, replace alarm batteries and help families create home fire escape plans.This work is helping to make our South Plains communities safer. Please help the American Red Cross spread the word about the Home Fire Campaign by letting us know if you, or anyone you know, needs lifesaving smoke alarms installed. To request FREE smoke alarms for your home, you can sign up at the Seniors are Special or American Red Cross. You can also request smoke alarms or become a Red Cross Home Fire Campaign volunteer installer or educator by contacting the American Red Cross South Plains Chapter at 806-765- 8534.

UMC’s Better Breathers Club to meet at UMC Activities Center The UMC Better Breathers Club is a support group for people with Chronic Lung disease such as COPD, Asthma, Pulmonary Fibrosis and Lung Cancer. Joining is free! Learn to manage your lung disease and live better. The Better Breathers Club meets the second Monday of every month from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm at the UMC Activities Center at 5217 82nd Street, in Rockridge Plaza. Our next meeting will be Monday, January 14, 2019. For additional information, contact Lori Stroud at 775-8950. Seniors are Special News – January 2019 6

Seniors Are Special’s Monthly Seminar Wednesday, January 9, 2018 | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM McInturff Conference Center at UMC

Lifestyle Topic: 3:00 PM Molly Setliss – Director of Rehabilitation – Carillon House Rehabilitation services available at Carillon House

Medical Topic: 4:00 PM Chad Curry, EMS Training Chief “Stop the Bleed” Stop the Bleed is a national campaign to cultivate grassroots efforts that encourage individuals to become trained, equipped, and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives.

Join us for Seniors are Special’s monthly educational seminars. These seminars meet on the second Wednesday of each month beginning at 3:00 PM in UMC’s McInturff Conference Center. The meetings are free, open to the public, and no reservations are necessary. Please bring a friend. For further information on these meetings, call SAS at 806-775-8760.

Shuttle transportation service is available from Tech’s southwest parking lot for SAS’s monthly meeting UMC’s Courtesy Shuttle vans provide free shuttle service between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM and 4:15 PM to 5:15 PM for our seminar guests. The shuttle picks up at the Texas Tech parking lot located SOUTH WEST of the Texas Tech Parkway, off 10th Street. Turn west at the 10th Street & Texas Tech Parkway light. The parking lot is located one block down on your left hand side of the street. Follow the SAS parking signs. You are, however, free to park in any of UMC’s parking lots.