Pikeville KY YMCA announces "Silver Sneakers"

The Pikeville Area YMCA introduces the SilverSneakers Program. Founded in 1992, the SilverSneakers Fitness Program is the nation's leading exercise program designed exclusively for older adults and offers an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and socially-oriented programming that allows older adults to take greater control of their health.

The unique SilverSneakers program is now available at The Pikeville Area Family YMCA at no additional cost to eligible Medicare members with the HUMANA  & AARP Health insurance plans.

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SilverSneakers offers an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and socially oriented programming that allows older adults to take greater control of their health. This class includes work for all major and minor muscle groups addressing strength, flexibility, muscular endurance, balance, coordination, agility, speed and power. The class includes a warm-up and rhythmic range of movement, stretch, work and resistance tools, cool down, final stretch and relaxation segment. It is a total body conditioning class in which students use hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles, a SilverSneakers play ball and a chair for standing and/or seated support.

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To enroll in the SilverSneakers Program, bring your health plan membership ID card and a photo ID to The Pikeville Area Family YMCA. There will be a Senior Advisor and other friendly staff to guide you through the process!
The SilverSneakers Classes are offered at the following times: Mondays: 9:30 am; Tuesdays: 8:45 am & 5:30 pm; Wednesdays: 8:45 am; Thursdays: 8:45 am & 5:30 pm; and Fridays at 9:30 am.

Any questions? Call the Pikeville YMCA at 433-9622 or visit the YMCA online at www.pikevilleymca.org.

Article Courtesy Pike County Chamber of Commerce

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Charlie Pinson is an independent Kentucky Health Insurance Agent representing several Kentucky insurance companies including Humana Health Insurance. Humana recently partnered with the Pike County Chamber of Commerce to offer group health insurance rates to Chamber members.

Flue Shots...Get'em while they are available!

Governor Beshear Encourages Kentuckians to Get Influenza Vaccinations; Increased emphasis this year aims to protect more children with flu shots

LEXINGTON, Ky.  (Sept. 12, 2008) – With influenza season just around the corner and an ample supply of vaccine expected this season, Governor Steve Beshear joined state and local health officials at the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department today to urge Kentuckians to get a flu shot or nasal vaccine spray — and to encourage parents to make sure children older than 6 months also receive protection against the flu.

“The best way to protect yourself and your family against the flu is to receive the flu shot or nasal vaccine spray. This year the federal government has released new recommendations that emphasize the need for most children over 6 months of age to receive annual flu vaccinations,” said Gov. Beshear. “Ensuring that all eligible children and adults are vaccinated helps protect the health of our communities at large, by reducing the flu’s spread and severity.”

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ (ACIP) updated recommendations for the coming flu season include:

• • Annual vaccination of all children aged 5-18 years;


• • Children aged 6 months through 4 years (59 months) continue to be a primary focus of annual vaccination efforts because these children are at a higher risk for flu complications compared with older children;


• • Children aged 6 months-8 years should receive two doses of vaccine if they have not been vaccinated previously; and


• • Healthy, non-pregnant people aged 2-49 years can receive either the flu shot or the nasal vaccine spray.

The focus on increasing vaccination among children reflects the serious health effects the flu can potentially cause among this population. Children younger than 2 years old — even healthy children — have a high risk of ending up in the hospital if they get the flu, and children 2-5 years old are more likely to be taken to a doctor, urgent treatment center or an emergency department due to the flu, according to the CDC. Each year in the U.S., as many as 20,000 children under age 5 are hospitalized because of the flu.

Kentucky expects local health departments and private providers to have plenty of vaccine on hand for this year’s season, and clinics are already being scheduled at many locations around the state. For information on vaccine availability, Kentuckians should contact their health provider or local health department.

“It’s important that children and others receive a flu vaccine each year to ensure maximum protection,” said Kraig Humbaugh, M.D., state epidemiologist at the Department for Public Health.

The flu season can begin as early as October and last as late as May, but usually peaks between January and March. September, October and November are good months to be vaccinated for flu because it takes about two weeks for immunity to develop and offer protection against flu. However, vaccination can be given any time during the flu season. Infection with the flu virus can cause fever, headache, cough, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing and body aches.

Immunization is strongly recommended to protect Kentuckians 65 and older and those with a chronic disease such as heart disease, cancer, asthma or diabetes. Healthy individuals 50 to 64 are also strongly recommended to receive flu vaccine.

In addition to flu vaccine, the officials encouraged all adults 65 or older and others in high-risk groups to ask their health care provider about the pneumococcal vaccine. This vaccine can help prevent a type of pneumonia, one of the flu’s most serious and potentially deadly complications.

Caused by bacteria, pneumococcal disease can result in serious pneumonia, meningitis or blood infections. According to the CDC, pneumococcal disease kills more people in the U.S. each year than all other vaccine-preventable diseases combined. Nationally, between 20,000 and 40,000 deaths are attributable to flu and pneumonia each year, with more than 90 percent of those deaths occurring in people age 65 and older.

For more information on influenza disease or the availability of flu immunizations, please contact your local health department or visit DPH’s flu Web site at http://www.chfs.ky.gov/dph/Influenza.htm.

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Kentucky's Lady Jane Horses of Hope Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign

First Lady Jane Beshear Announces 'Horses and Hope' to Fight Breast Cancer

State awards breast cancer grants

FRANKFORT, Ky. – First lady Jane Beshear today announced “Horses and Hope,” an initiative she has created with the Kentucky Cancer Program. The project will foster work with the state’s equine industry to identify new opportunities to provide breast cancer awareness, education, screening and treatment referral, as well as to raise funds to sustain programs into the future.

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-“Most of you know of my great love for horses,” said Mrs. Beshear. “Horses and Hope will combine my passion for these great animals with the fight to cure this disease.”

“Horses and Hope” will also be supported by the Pink Stable, a committee of women horse owners, trainers, jockeys, race track representatives and others convened by the first lady. In addition to Mrs. Beshear, who chairs the committee, members of the Pink Stable include Wende Bell, Anita Cauley, Patricia Cooksey, Carol Farmer, Mary Midkiff, Susan Nicholson, Ann McBrayer and Donna Ward.

“Horses and Hope” will sponsor Breast Cancer Race Days to raise awareness at Kentucky’s racetracks on the following days:

• Aug. 16 – Ellis Park


• Sept. 26 – Turfway Park


• Oct. 24 – Keeneland


• Nov. 16 – Churchill Downs

Other activities planned include:

Backside Outreach, where we will provide breast cancer education, awareness and screening to track workers and their families, placing special emphasis on the uninsured and underinsured;

Development of materials and a website that provide screening and treatment resources for Kentuckians; and

Working with colleagues in the equine industry to secure financial and in-kind contributions for “Horses and Hope” programs.

The Kentucky Cancer Program at both the University of Louisville and the University of Kentucky has been awarded grants ($10,500 each) from the Kentucky Breast Cancer Research and Education Trust Fund to fund breast cancer awareness, education, screening and outreach activities related to “Horses and Hope.”

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In addition, the Kentucky Cancer Program at the University of Louisville has committed up to $10,000 from their 2008-09 operating budget to initiate project activities.

The Kentucky Cancer Program at the University of Louisville will administer fiscal affairs for Horses and Hope. Donations will be placed in a University of Louisville Foundation account for the exclusive support of the project.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among Kentucky’s women. According to the Kentucky Cancer Registry, an average of 2,700 new cases of breast cancer is diagnosed in Kentucky women each year. Over the last five years, an average of nearly 600 Kentucky women has died each year from breast cancer.

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Pikeville KY Health Screening Offered Tomorrow

National College’s Pikeville Campus to Host Community Health Fair
Event will offer free health screenings

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PIKEVILLE, KY – The Pikeville Campus of National College (www.national-college.edu; 606-478-7200), located at 50 National College Boulevard, will host a community health fair on Thursday, July 17 from 1:00 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Free health screenings will be offered including vision, skin damage, blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol. Consultants will also be available for smoking cessation, weight loss, personal training, and healthy tanning. The college’s medical students will be on hand for osteopathic manipulation.

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The Pike and Floyd County Health Departments will offer two fascinating exhibits. Entertainment will be provided by WXCC 96.5 and 93.1 WDHR. Admission to the fair is free and refreshments will be provided.

The Pikeville campus has served the area since 1975 and offers a career-oriented education. Students may choose from five associate degree programs, or eleven short-term diploma programs in business, computers, and health care.

National College operates a total of 24 campuses in Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, and Indiana, serving more than 10,000 students annually.

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Filed for Kentucky Unemployment Insurance?

More than 36,000 Kentuckians may qualify for 13-week unemployment insurance extension

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentuckians who have filed their unemployment insurance claim on or after May 7, 2006 and have exhausted those benefits and are currently unemployed may be eligible for up to 13 weeks of extended benefits, according to the Kentucky Office of Employment and Training, an agency in the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet.

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More than 36,000 Kentuckians may be eligible for the additional unemployment benefits, said Division of Unemployment Insurance Director Tony DeName. Individuals who are potentially eligible for the federally funded extended benefits program will be notified by mail.

The weekly benefit amount for extended benefits will be the same as the person received for regular unemployment compensation during the original 26-week period. The maximum amount of benefits is $415 a week and depends on the person’s prior earnings. Potential candidates may apply until March 22, 2009.

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“Governor Beshear signed the agreement with the U.S. Department of Labor on July 1, 2008. Kentucky was one of the first states in the nation to return the agreement to Washington. The program is effective with the week beginning July 6, 2008. You may file your claim for benefits on line at www.kewes.ky.gov beginning Wednesday July 9, 2008, or you may use the call center 859-547-3362 to file. However, this is not at toll-free call,” said DeName.

OET helps individuals prepare for, secure, and maintain employment; assists employers in locating and selecting the best qualified workers for their job openings; and provides income maintenance to ease the financial burden on individuals who are out of work through no fault of their own.

The Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet coordinates learning programs from P-16, and manages and supports training and employment functions in the Department for Workforce Investment. For more information about our programs, visit   www.educationcabinet.ky.gov  or   www.workforce.ky.gov, 
or call 502-564-6606.

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Senior Citizens being targeted in Insurance Scam

NEWS RELEASE from Kentucky Office of Insurance provided on this blog by   Kentucky Health Insurance Agents at Triple B Insurance

CONSUMERS WARNED OF SCAMS ASKING FOR PERSONAL DATA

Agency advises consumers to hang up on suspicious callers

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 16, 2008) – The Kentucky Office of Insurance (KOI) has received reports of several scams and is warning consumers to take extra precautions to protect financial information.

Consumer advocates, police departments and other agencies across the country are warning about a variety of scams coming from a Bismarck, N.D., telephone number - 701-221-2212.

A woman in Louisville told an investigator from KOI’s Consumer Protection and Education Division that she took a call from that number earlier this week. The caller, who identified himself as Sid Johnson, said Medicare was making some changes to its plan and he needed her bank account information to ensure that her Social Security check was properly deposited.

In an effort to prove the call was valid, the man said his Medicare ID # was MD10956J. The Louisville woman said the caller already had some information about her but was missing some key pieces, such as her age. She did not give him any information, hung up and called KOI.

Other scams associated with this number have included the promise of a rebate from the Internal Revenue Service or some other refund or check that can only be received by direct deposit.

Consumers should never give financial information over the phone, particularly if they did not initiate the call, said John Burkholder, KOI acting executive director.

Another scam report came from the Mt. Vernon police department. Several senior citizens in the area reported receiving an automated message that the consumer’s auto insurance was expiring and must be renewed by pressing “1.” When the consumer followed the directions, the next message asked for personal information. This call originated from 702-528-1131, a number in Las Vegas.

“If a call makes you suspicious or uncomfortable, hang up,” said Burkholder. “Government agencies, insurance companies and legitimate businesses would not ask consumers for information using these methods.”

The Office of Insurance is an agency of the Department of Public Protection in the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet.

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Smoke Free Laws Don't Impact Employee Turnover

University of Kentucky Media Contacts:
Ann Blackford, (859) 323-6363, x230 Amanda Nelson, (859) 323-6363, x224

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 7, 2008) − In a recent study published in Contemporary Economic Policy, Ellen Hahn, professor in the University of Kentucky College of Nursing, found that smoke-free laws do not negatively impact employee turnover. The report , “Smoke-Free Laws and Employee Turnover,” was the first of its kind to examine the impact of smoke-free laws on the restaurant labor market.

“We already know from multitudes of other studies that going smoke-free doesn’t hurt business,” Hahn said. “But this is the first one to look at how smoke-free laws may impact employee retention and training.”

The study examined payroll records of a franchisee of a national full-service restaurant chain that operates 23 restaurants in the state of Arizona, a state where several communities have adopted smoke-free laws.

“We thought we might see a short term spike in turnover but we didn’t see that,” said Eric Thompson, associate professor with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. In fact, they found a decline in the probability of turnover in the initial months after a smoke-free law was implemented as well as evidence that turnover rates were lower 16 to 18 months after implementation. However, over the long-run (a five year period) there was no consistent pattern of either a decline or an increase in employee turnover after the implementation of a smoke-free law.

By focusing on how a smoke-free policy impacted the restaurant workers’ interest or ability to stay on the job, the study supports existing evidence showing that smoke-free laws are positive for business.

“The reactions of the workers to the smoke-free laws showed that they weren’t apt to leave their jobs after their restaurants went smoke-free,” Hahn said.

Health advocates support local smoking ordinances as a public health strategy to enhance the safety of workplaces. But like many safety regulations, smoke-free laws have the potential to introduce economic inefficiencies. One earlier belief was that the introduction of a smoke-free law may cause some workers to leave their jobs at bar and restaurant businesses.

“The concern was that once smoking was no longer allowed, workers would no longer be interested in that particular job," Thompson said. "Ostensibly, when the smoking law changed, the mix of characteristics in their job (such as wages, job responsibilities, the presence of second hand smoke) may have changed and caused people to choose another place of work. But the study did not bear this out.”

Hahn hopes that this study will give the restaurant industry the courage to stop fighting smoke-free laws.

“There’s no reason the hospitality industry should resist smoke-free legislation in light of the huge body of research showing that it doesn’t impact business,” Hahn said.

The Substance Abuse Policy Research Program of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation funds research into policies related to alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs.

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation focuses on the pressing health and health care issues facing our country. As the nation's largest philanthropy devoted exclusively to improving the health and health care of all Americans, the foundation works with a diverse group of organizations and individuals to identify solutions and achieve comprehensive, meaningful and timely change. For more than 30 years the foundation has brought experience, commitment, and a rigorous, balanced approach to the problems that affect the health and health care of those it serves. Helping Americans lead healthier lives and get the care they need—the foundation expects to make a difference in our lifetime.

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Kentucky Health Insurance Fraud Honesty is the best Policy

NEWS RELEASE Kentucky Office of Insurance
Contact: Ronda Sloan 502-564-6098 502-330-1804 (cell)

FAILURE TO DISCLOSE MEDICAL INFORMATION IS FRAUD

Bowling Green man faces felony charge after allegedly lying about his health

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 5, 2008) – You are filling out an application for health insurance. Is it okay to shave a few pounds off your weight? To not mention those chest pains and the accompanying trip to the emergency room? What about your history of asthma?

“Lying or leaving out relevant information on an insurance application is fraud,” said John Burkholder, acting executive director of the Kentucky Office of Insurance (KOI). “Often, consumers think those things are minor and don’t matter. That thinking is very wrong.”

The KOI Fraud Investigation Division receives many referrals regarding instances where a consumer has supplied false, misleading or incomplete information on a health insurance application.

Tracy Cardwell, 40, of Bowling Green, recently was indicted on a felony count of insurance fraud after he allegedly completed an Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield application for individual health insurance, indicating he had no significant health problems. After Anthem accepted Cardwell in the plan, medical records showed he had health conditions that were not disclosed on the application. The company rescinded the policy and received refunds from the providers who had treated Cardwell. He now is responsible for repaying the more than $14,000 paid for his medical care under the Anthem policy.

“Consumers often think that leaving out information can result in a lower premium or will ensure acceptance into a plan. This case underscores the need to be totally truthful on an application. Otherwise, you could pay a lot more in the end,” said Burkholder.

KOI is an agency of the Department of Public Protection

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Graduation...Looking for a job?

Interviews and Good Impressions

With graduation around the corner, and the job market being rather tight new graduates need all the "edge" they can get to land a job. To me, some of these tips may seem obvious, but having interviewed many young hopefuls apparently they are not.

• Send out resumes, and don't be afraid to follow up with a phone call.


• Use your connections. Do you know someone who can help you land an interview?


• Do your homework. Learn all you can about the company you are applying to.



• Once you land an appointment, get there on time! I am appalled at how many potential employees show up late for appointments. If you are stuck in traffic, call your contact and explain. That is just common courtesy.



• Dress appropriately and be pressed and clean. Many young people dress too casually for the position they are applying for. If you have doubts, go to the company and watch the folks come out either for lunch, or as they are leaving to go home. Pick your interview clothes accordingly.



• Please, please refrain from perfume and aftershave. Many people are allergic. You want a lingering impression from your dazzling personality; not your trendiest fashion scent.



• Before you walk in to the interview, take a deep breathe and relax. Force yourself to smile; after all your professional career is why you spent all that time in college. Be optimistic and excited!



• Use your interviewers' name, when responding to questions. Look them in the eyes. Keep the interviewer engaged. You are just one in a crowded field. Take positive action to be remembered.



• After the interview, jot off a hand written than you note to the person you interviewed with. Even if you don't get the job, they will remember you and perhaps give your name to someone else who has an opening...or remember you when another position is available. Build your contacts!

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Women's Health Month in Kentucky UK Center for Advancement of Women's Health

Media Contact: Ann Blackford, (859) 323-6363, x230

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 18, 2008) − In recognition of April as Women's Health Month, Kentucky women are encouraged to sign up for the Women's Health Registry at the University of Kentucky's Center for the Advancement of Women's Health.

The Kentucky House of Representatives signed Resolution 216 to dedicate the month of April to improving the health and well-being of women in Kentucky.

The Women's Health Registry, an initiative of UK's Center for the Advancement of Women's Health, is the only state-wide health registry of its kind in the nation. Participation is simple, unintrusive and confidential, yet the potential benefits for a better understanding of women's health needs are immeasurable.

The registry opened March 1, 2006. Since that time, over 5,000 Kentucky women between ages 18-89 have completed either a paper or online survey about their health. The registry asks questions about a variety of topics including demographics, education, physical and mental well-being. The information helps researchers interested in women's health to better understand how things such as stress and family history influence women's health. The registry also provides a link between interested women and research studies they may qualify for.

Mary Johnson, clinical research administrator and coordinator of the Women's Health Registry, said that the registry needs women of all descriptions and that each woman represents thousands of other women that are just like her. "Each survey year will provide a snapshot of the health and circumstances of the women in the registry. They provide current life information that over time will create a panoramic view of their health and lives that will help all the women that are growing up behind them."

Participation does not require a woman to physically come to UK. Filling out the questionnaire can be done in the comfort of a woman's home or any where she has access to a computer. The questionnaire can also be filled out by hand and mailed to UK if that is preferable. Providing one's health information is an easy way for women to be proactive in their own health care.

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Posted by Joyce Pinson, Kentucky Health Insurance Agent. Click for Kentucky Health Insurance Quotes  for Individuals and Families. Kentucky Short Term Medical insurance is also available. Visit our main website at Kentucky Online Insurance Quotes  or visit our Lexington KY Insurance page

Derby Festival Mini Marathon sponsored in part by Bluegrass Family Health Insurance Louisville Ky

Derby Festival Mini-Marathon Full Up

Late Registration will not be accepted at Bluegrass Family Health's Running Wild Expo

Registration CLOSED for Mini and Marathon
By: KDF Press Office
Posted: 4/14/2008 9:42:55 AM

Registration is now CLOSED for the Derby Festival Marathon and miniMarathon to be held on Saturday, April 26. Registration has reached the previously announced cap of 12,000 runners. This means there will NOT be entries available for late registration next week at the Bluegrass Family Health Running Wild Expo at the Kentucky International Convention Center.

“We had a record number of entries in 2007 and we’re thrilled that we set another record this year by reaching the cap of 12,000 entries,” said race director Chad Pickering. “Our goal is to have 12,000 finishers in both races combined. Derby Festival staff members and members of the race committee attended several race expos around the country last fall, and those recruiting efforts seem to have really paid off. We hope be able to open the races to even more numbers next year.”

Registration numbers for the races have steadily increased over the past two years. The 2007 Derby Festival races attracted a record 11,269 registrants, shattering the previous record of 8,651 set in 2006. For 2008, the Festival can only guarantee entry for the first 12,000 entrants to ensure the infrastructure is in place to support the runners in the manner to which they are accustomed. Registration numbers for this year’s races represent a 20-percent increase over the total number of entrants for last year’s event. Runners from 47 U.S. states and at least nine foreign countries have registered for the 2008 races.

The seventh annual Marathon and 35th annual miniMarathon will start simultaneously at 7:30 a.m. near Iroquois Park. The race route will once again include a lap around the infield at Churchill Downs; Marathon runners will complete a short loop in Southern Indiana before returning to downtown Louisville at about Mile 24. More details about the race are available online at www.derbyfestivalmarathon.com.

Contributing sponsors of the 2008 Derby Festival Marathon and miniMarathon are: Bluegrass Family Health, Churchill Downs, The Courier-Journal, Meijer and Powerade; supporting sponsors are Jewish Hospital Sports Medicine, the Louisville Water Company and marathonguide.com.

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Triple B Insurance specializes in Kentucky Health Insurance for large and small group health insurance. Agents for Triple B Insurance do business with several Kentucky Health Insurance Companies including Bluegrass Family Health Insurance Louisville KY.

Keeneland Jockeys Visit Young Patients

Riders Up! Stepping Up at Lexington KY
UK Healthcare's Kentucky Children's Hospital

Countdown to Derby May 3 Louisville KY

Media Contact: UK HealthCare News Mary Margaret Colliver, (859) 361-1887

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 10, 2008) – Patients at UK HealthCare’s Kentucky Children’s Hospital today received a special treat. Members of Keeneland’s jockey colony visited the young patients and brought them books and gifts. Dressed in their jockey silks, the riders brightened the day of children who come to Kentucky Children’s Hospital from across Kentucky.

Some of the jockeys visiting the children commented on their visit. “It’s a great opportunity to put a smile on the face of someone going through a tough time,” said Garret Gomez.

John Velazquez said, “I’ve been hospitalized at UK and received lots of good help and support there. I have two kids of my own. It's good to meet many of the children and their families.”

“I’ve been in the hospital and I know how it is; you appreciate visitors," said Robby Albarado. "It’s a small way to give back something to the community.”

Dr. Tim Bricker, professor and chair, Department of Pediatrics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, and physician-in-chief of Kentucky Children’s Hospital, greeted the Keeneland jockeys. “We are so pleased to have the Keeneland Jockey Colony visit our patients at our Kentucky Children’s Hospital,” said Bricker. “After all, Keeneland’s jockeys are as committed to Kentucky as we are, and they are part of our team.”

Keeneland is a combination Thoroughbred race course and sales company located six miles west of Lexington in the heart of Kentucky's Bluegrass Region. Keeneland was established as a model race track to perpetuate and improve the sport, and to provide a course that is intended to serve as a symbol of the fine traditions of Thoroughbred racing. The philosophy and principles which have characterized Keeneland throughout its history remain unchanged.

Kentucky Children's Hospital was established in 1997. Previously known as UK Children’s Hospital, it was renamed in 2005 to more clearly define its role as the hospital for all children of Kentucky. The renaming reflects UK HealthCare’s new and expanded commitment to provide the best possible care to children throughout the state. The name also represents UK’s commitment to become a leading research center for children’s health and a Top 20 pediatric institution.

For more information about Kentucky Children’s Hospital, call Loralyn Cecil at (859) 257-1106.For more information about Keeneland, call (859) 254-3412.

Joyce Pinson, Kentucky health insurance agent, collects all things Derby including derby glasses, and memorabilia from fellow Boone County native Steve Cauthen.

Spencer County Man Must Repay Health Insurance Benefits

From Kentucky Office of Insurance
Contact: Ronda Sloan
502-564-6098
502-330-1804 (cell)

NEWS RELEASE

SPENCER COUNTY MAN LIES ON INSURANCE APPLICATION
Must repay company for all claims paid on his behalf

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 31, 2008) – A Spencer County man must repay $9,718.66 in health insurance benefits he received after lying on the application. The case was investigated by the Kentucky Office of Insurance (KOI) Fraud Investigation Division.

Douglas Richardson, 37, of Taylorsville, admitted that he lied on a health insurance application with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, stating that he didn’t have any significant health problems when he actually had several specific medical conditions. Anthem paid claims based on this fraudulent information.

He pleaded guilty to one felony count of insurance fraud and will be supervised for five years through a pretrial diversion agreement in Jefferson Circuit Court. Richardson was ordered to make restitution to Anthem for the claims paid on his behalf. In addition, he must pay a fine of $918.40 to KOI for investigative expenses. He waived his right to request that the record be expunged of this charge.

KOI is an agency of the Department of Public Protection in the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet.

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Joyce Pinson and Charlie Pinson are Kentucky health insurance agents. For information about Triple B Insurance and KY health insurance quotes visit Triple B Insurance staff page.

Central KY woman averts Health Insurance Scam

From Kentucky Office of Insurance
Contact: Ronda Sloan
502-564-6098
502-330-1804 (cell)

NEWS RELEASE

CONSUMERS SHOULD GUARD FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Unsolicited caller asks central Kentucky woman for bank account data

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 2, 2008) – An Anderson County woman received a call earlier this week with an offer “too good to be true,” and her quick thinking may have averted financial disaster.
The caller, who said his name was Patrick, offered to help her save money on a health insurance plan. Later in the call, he said she could receive the coverage at no cost. All he needed was her financial information. When she asked why he needed her bank routing number for a free service, the caller became angry and hung up. The woman called the Kentucky Office of Insurance (KOI) to report the matter.
According to the consumer, Patrick said he represented MedExtra. An investigator from KOI contacted MedExtra, a Canadian company specializing in assisting members with various medical services, including personalized care plans, remote second opinions and discount pricing. A company representative said MedExtra does not have an employee named Patrick and does not market in the United States.
“We urge consumers to be cautious about giving out financial information, particularly when they did not initiate the call,” said John Burkholder, KOI acting executive director. “Being a savvy consumer may have saved this woman from a serious financial loss.”
Consumers who receive similar calls may call KOI at 800-595-6053 and ask to speak to Scott Moseley in Consumer Protection and Education.
KOI is an agency of the Department of Public Protection in the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet.
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Governor Beshear signs bills for long term care and trama care

Governor Steve Beshear's Communications Office
Governor Beshear signs four bills into law
Press Release Date: Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Contact Information: Dick Brown
502-564-2611

FRANKFORT, KY – Gov. Steve Beshear today signed into law four bills passed by the current session of the Kentucky General Assembly. The new laws include measures relating to corporation income tax and limited liability entity tax, changes relating to plastic container labeling requirements, long-term care insurance and trauma care.

HB 259, sponsored by Rep. Jeff Greer (D-Brandenburg), created the Kentucky Long-Term Care Partnership Program that encourages individuals to obtain long-term care insurance by allowing them to still qualify for Medicaid services without exhausting all of their assets and resources. This will allow these individuals to protect come of their personal assets, up to the benefits of the policy, from estate recovery.

“No longer will the elderly who have worked all their lives to have a home and some money saved be forced to lose all of those assets in order to access long-term care,” said Gov. Beshear. “This bill is a significant step in helping consumers plan their retirement with more confidence in their long-term financial viability. I want to congratulate Rep. Greer and thank him for recognizing this opportunity and pushing this legislation.”

HB 371, sponsored by Rep. Bob DeWeese (R-Louisville), provides a mechanism by which an office of trauma care will be created and charged with developing trauma prevention programs, a trauma registry, continuing education for professionals and a coordinated trauma network.

“It’s not often you can say that a specific piece of legislation has the potential to save lives. But, in this case, it’s true,” said Gov. Beshear. “Many areas of Kentucky, particularly rural areas, lack good trauma care, something that contributes to higher rates of death and permanent disability as a result of violent accidents. With the work of Rep. Bob DeWeese, we now have legislation that can address this in a meaningful way.”

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Employers Underestimate Role of Benefits in Employee Loyalty Kentucky Small Businees

EMPLOYEES’ DESIRE FOR WORKPLACE ACCESS TO INSURANCE & SAVINGS PRODUCTS AND ADVICE GROWING, METLIFE STUDY SHOWS; EMPLOYERS UNDERESTIMATE ROLE OF BENEFITS IN EMPLOYEE LOYALTY


NEW YORK, April 7, 2008 – The workplace has become the dominant starting point for building a strong financial safety net. According to MetLife’s Sixth Annual Employee Benefits Trends Study, released today, more than half of working Americans (52%) are now obtaining the majority of their financial and retirement products through the workplace – up from 46% a year ago. Growing financial concerns among employees are creating a greater interest in advice and guidance at the workplace – 44% of employees would like access to general financial planning advice at work, up from 30% last year. Nearly half (49%) of all employees also want their employers to provide retirement advice.

"This increased employee appetite for advice at the workplace is a significant development. It presents a tremendous opportunity for U.S. employers to optimize the real and perceived value of their benefit plans. Having a benefit program that meets the diverse needs of their employees – and communicating more frequently about benefit offerings – can result in improved employee retention, which continues to dominate employers' minds as their top benefits objective," said Bill Mullaney, President, MetLife Institutional Business. For the second consecutive year, retention was rated by employers as their number one benefits objective.

Also among the study’s key findings:

• Benefits, Loyalty, & Retention – Employers underestimate how important benefits are to employee loyalty; benefits are increasingly important factors in employees’ decisions to remain with their employer.

• Growing Focus on Retirement and Aging Workforce issues – Employer focus and spending on retiree benefits is expected to increase; employees have strong interest in retirement benefits.

Loyalty & Retention

When asked about the importance of benefits in retention and workplace loyalty, employees ranked retirement benefits and advancement opportunities as tied for the third most critical factor, behind salary/wages (number one) and health benefits (number two). A loyalty gap can be seen clearly with this example – 72% of employees say retirement benefits are an important factor in loyalty, whereas only 41% of employers say the same.

Benefits are playing an increasingly important role in employees’ decisions to remain with their employer. Significantly, 45% percent of employees say benefits are an important reason why they remain with their current employer, up from 33% a year ago. An additional one-third (33%) say benefits were an important factor attracting them to their current job, up from 28% last year.

More employers are recognizing that benefits drive satisfaction. A majority, 58%, believe that benefits play a very important role in employee retention. That percentage climbs to 65% for employers with 500 or more employees.

However, the study also reveals a significant gap between how loyal employers believe they are to employees and employees’ perception of that loyalty. For example, 55% of surveyed employers say they feel a strong sense of loyalty to their workers, whereas only 41% of employees feel that their employers have a strong sense of loyalty to them. As employers look to use benefits strategically to help improve workforce loyalty and retention, it is essential to find ways to close this gap and better understand how benefits are most impacting feelings of loyalty.

The study also indicates that despite rising benefits costs, employees seem willing to accept paying a larger part of those costs themselves in order to access a portfolio of benefits offerings. In spite of the fact that more than half (56%) of employees say they are paying more now for their medical coverage than last year, benefits satisfaction among employees is up. This year 44% of surveyed employees, compared to 39% last year, say they are satisfied with their workplace benefits. Employees are indicating a willingness to pay more to get more. In fact, 44% of employees are interested in their employer offering a wider array of voluntary benefits – up from 31% last year.

"With retention a key business concern, employers are looking to improve employee loyalty more than ever. This year’s data on benefits behaviors show a gap between what employers think will help drive improved loyalty and satisfaction, and what employees are actually looking for. By better understanding what ways benefits drive employee loyalty in an increasingly diverse workforce, employers have an untapped opportunity to maximize the effectiveness of their benefits plans," said Ronald Leopold, M.D., vice president, MetLife Institutional Business.

Growing Focus on Retirement and Aging Workforce Issues
With a significant number of employees approaching retirement, companies can do more to address the needs of an aging workforce. As the Baby Boomers begin to retire and/or approach retirement, employers need to re-evaluate their benefits offerings. The study reveals that nearly three-quarters (73%) of employers that currently offer retiree benefits expect the dollar amount of these benefits to increase in the next five years, compared to 63% last year.

Employers are implementing a range of programs and accommodations. Large companies outpace smaller employers when it comes to offering retirement guides/information and training. About one-third of companies with 500 or more employees offer resources and programs for an aging workforce. However, smaller employers provide greater flexibility for working part-time in retirement. Among companies that provide resources/programs for an aging workforce, 44% with 2 to 499 employees provide part-time employment to retirees, compared to 35% with 500 or more employees.

Smaller employers are less likely to anticipate being affected by the aging workforce. Only 35% of employers with 2 to 499 employees think they will be greatly impacted, compared to 50% with 500 or more employees. One reason could be that employees at smaller companies expect to work until an older age. While the average employee at companies with 500 or more employees is anticipating retiring from full-time work at age 63, the average employee at smaller employers is planning to retire at age 65.

Call to Action
The study suggests that there are three primary strategies that employers can consider to optimize the value of their benefits plan:

Personalization. A one-size-fits-all approach to benefits is no longer effective. Employers should tailor benefits to different employee segments, including older workers, retirees, and other life-stage groups.

Breadth of Benefits. Employers should provide a broad, cost-efficient benefits offering with a wide range of options to meet the increasingly diverse needs of the workforce. This offering can include voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs, work/life balance programs, resources for aging workers, and retirement plans.

Decision Support and Communications. When asked about the importance of benefits strategies to their companies, over half (55%) of employers indicate that "providing better decision support tools" is very important — up from 47% in 2005. Such tools could include product calculators as well as rules of thumb on what products and coverage levels are appropriate. Also, employers should communicate more frequently to employees about their benefits offerings and how to take advantage of them.

"Set against a backdrop of an aging workforce, escalating healthcare costs and an era of personal responsibility, benefits have become increasingly important to both employers and employees. Employees are looking to secure their financial futures and are primed for action. Providing and promoting a robust suite of benefits offerings represents a win-win for employers and employees alike," adds Mr. Mullaney.

The 6th annual MetLife Study of Employee Benefits Trends is available at
whymetlife.com/trendspr along with a wealth of other related resources, including interactive polls on the latest benefits issues and access to other MetLife research.

Study Methodology

The 6th annual MetLife Study of Employee Benefits Trends was conducted during the third quarter of 2007 and consisted of two distinct studies fielded by GfK NOP. The employee survey polled 1,380 full-time employees, age 21 and over, at companies with at least two employees. The employer survey consisted of 1,652 interviews with benefits decision-makers at companies with a minimum of two employees, representing a mix of industries and geographic regions.

Celebrating 140 years, MetLife is a subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET), a leading provider of insurance and financial services with operations throughout the United States and the Latin America, Europe and Asia Pacific regions. Through its domestic and international subsidiaries and affiliates, MetLife, Inc. reaches more than 70 million customers around the world and MetLife is the largest life insurer in the United States (based on life insurance in-force). The MetLife companies offer life insurance, annuities, auto and home insurance, retail banking and other financial services to individuals, as well as group insurance, reinsurance and retirement & savings products and services to corporations and other institutions. For more information, please visit www.metlife.com.



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MetLife Media Contacts:
Karen Eldred (212) 578-9561
Joe Madden (212) 578-3021
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Charlie Pinson Insurance was recently awarded the 2007 Outstanding Productivity and Profitablility Award in Kentucky by MetLife (for Kentucky Auto Insurance). Through our sister agencies, Triple B Insurance and C & B Insurance, Charlie Pinson offers a variety of insurance products for  Kentucky Small Business.

Humana Health Insurance KY Named One of Nation's Best Corporate Citizens

April 02, 2008 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Humana Ranks #7 Among CRO Magazine’s Top 100 Companies

LOUISVILLE, Ky.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM) announced today that it has been recognized by Corporate Responsibility Officer Magazine as one of 2008’s “100 Best Corporate Citizens.”

Humana ranked seventh on this prestigious list, which included such well-known corporate citizens as Intel Corp., Starbucks Corp. and PepsiCo Inc. Humana was the only health services company to rank in the list’s top 20.

“We are honored to be named one of the best corporate citizens in America,” said Mike McCallister, Humana’s president and chief executive officer. “At Humana our brand promise of ‘guidance when you need it most’ embodies a pledge to act in the highest ethical manner and to participate meaningfully in the communities where we do business. In this way we strive to be full partners with our consumers, our customers and the general public.”

CRO, in affiliation with IW Financial, a research and consulting firm, ranked the corporate responsibility efforts of large-cap companies from the Russell 1000 index based on their efforts in the areas of climate change, employee relations, environment, financial performance, governance, human rights, lobbying and philanthropy.

CRO gave especially high marks to Humana’s governance, ranking the company sixth in that area. In addition, Humana ranked number 52 in the financial category.

In addition to this year’s CRO ranking, in 2007 Humana was included in CRO’s top ten list of corporate citizens by industry, ranking first in health services and second in financial services, and was named as one of only 99 U.S. companies on the prestigious Dow Jones Sustainability Index.

About Humana Health Insurance

Humana Inc., headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, is one of the nation’s largest publicly traded health and supplemental benefits companies, with approximately 11.5 million medical members. Humana is a full-service benefits solutions company, offering a wide array of health and supplementary benefit plans for employer groups, government programs and individuals.

Over its 47-year history, Humana has consistently seized opportunities to meet changing customer needs. Today, the company is a leader in consumer engagement, providing guidance that leads to lower costs and a better health plan experience throughout its diversified customer portfolio.

Contacts
Humana Inc.  Chris Curran, Humana Corporate Communications
502-580-1084ccurran@humana.com

Charlie Pinson and Joyce Pinson offer Kentucky Health Insurance through a number of companies including Humana. Charlie Pinson represents Triple B Insurance, an independent Kentucky Health Insurance Agency.

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Charlie Pinson

Kentucky Festivals and Celebrations

Kentucky Derby Festival kick-off
April 11 Louisville, KY

Hillbilly Days April 17-19
Pikeville, KY

Break out your Sunday go to meeting finest, and your bib overalls too, because it is coming up on time to celebrate Kentucky.

Louisville KY's, Kentucky Derby Festival commences with the "They're Off! Luncheon" on Friday, April 11. Held at the Galt House East, TV personality Deborah Norville will be the featured speaker. The event is sponsored by Norton Healthcare with Bluegrass Family Health listed as a contributing sponsor.

This year's Kentucky Derby Festival boasts over seventy events leading up to "The greatest two minutes in sports" our beloved Louisville Kentucky Derby. Many of Louisville's health insurance providers will be sponsoring events. April 24 and 25 Bluegrass Family Health Insurance is sponsoring the Bluegrass Family Health Running Wild Expo. April 24 will also see Humana Health Insurance's Humana Derby Festival Foundation Academic Challenge. Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield health insurance will sponsor a Healthy Lifestyles Showcase on Monday, April 28.

Not nearly as elegant, but certainly as much fun, Pikeville KY rolls out the red carpet for our annual Hillbilly days on April 17. For those of you who don't know, Pikeville's Hillbilly Days is the second largest festival in Kentucky, nudged out "by a nose" by the Kentucky Derby Festival in Louisville. (Forgive the pun...I just couldn't resist)

So what's all this got to do with Kentucky Insurance?

Well, we wanted to acknowlege our Kentucky Health Insurance carriers who support various events across the bluegrass. As for Charlie Pinson Insurance, we will be modifying our office hours to accommodate some of the events. And besides, when the redbuds blossom, the thunder of hoofs fills the air, and this insurance agent's thoughts turn to fancy hats and peep-toed shoes...ya just got to take a minute to thank God we live in Kentucky!

More to come in the days ahead!

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Healthy Walking Paths of Pikeville KY Pike County Diabetes Partnership

Coming Tuesday April 1, 2008
Healthy Walking Paths Kick-Off
11:30 - 1:30 Pikeville KY City Park

When they call me "well-rounded" I always hope they are talking about my interests and intellect. But who are we kidding? They could be talking about my Rubinesque figure. With summer coming, I have no good excuse not to excersise more. Do you?

Mavis Caudell Lowe, has worked hard to put together four paths throughout the city of Pikeville. The marked paths will give walkers, and out of shape chubbies like me, the option of walking 1/2 mile, 1 mile, 1 1/2 mile and 2 miles. (We met Mavis and her husband John through ballroom dancing.)

I am not sure what Mavis' official title is, but she is a Diabetes Educator with Pikeville Medical Center. So of course she is involved in the Pike County Diabetes Partnership.

This Tuesday, barring a rain reschedule, folks will be able to begin at Pikeville City Park, and follow the paths for the distance of their choice. As part of the kick-off, various businesses and organizations along the way will be providing rest stops. When Mavis asked if Charlie Pinson Insurance would be an official stop, we jumped at the chance. Diabetes runs rampant in some branches of my family, and also in Mark's family. We take that stuff real personal!

Our office is an official stop. We will have Anthem Health Insurance brochures, "Are you in control? Keeping your blood sugar in check." We are also providing a fruit. (Forget about the nuts, they are our employees! Giggle)

So if you live in Pikeville, Pike County, or for that matter anywhere in Kentucky...come on an join us on Tuesday. Mavis always make events fun...and who knows. Maybe we can peel off some pounds together! Let's get healthy!

For More information see todays Appalachian News-Express Pikeville