Welfare Notes - March 2006

Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans

Dementia is a brain disorder that affects a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. The most common form of dementia among older people is Alzheimer’s disease. While more is being learned about Alzheimer’s disease every day, it is still not known what causes it, and there is no cure.

The disease usually begins after age 60, and the risk increases with age. While younger people may also get Alzheimer’s disease, it is much less common.

Alzheimer’s is a slow disease starting with memory loss. The course the disease takes and how fast changes occur vary from person to person.

The term dementia describes a group of symptoms that are caused by changes in brain function. Dementia symptoms may include: asking the same questions repeatedly, becoming lost in familiar places, being unable to follow directions, and neglecting personal safety and nutrition.

Dementia is caused by many conditions. Some conditions that cause dementia can be reversed and others cannot be reversed. Symptoms of dementia can be caused by high fever, dehydration, vitamin deficiencies, poor nutrition, or reactions to medicines. Personal difficulties may also cause confusion or forgetfulness. It is best to consult a doctor when symptoms occur to determine a diagnosis and course of treatment.

You can also contact the Alzheimer’s Disease Education & Referral Center for questions and publications: 1-800-438-4380.

Active Participants’ Eligibility

Active participants who feel they are meeting the eligibility requirements for the first time or regaining their eligibility should contact the plan office. In addition to the work time requirements for eligibility, you must also enroll in a health plan of your choice.

When regaining eligibility, you must re-enroll in a health plan. The Plan office can send you the needed forms and get you started. Please also feel free to contact the Plan office for any questions concerning your current eligibility period. 800-796-8003.

Participant Mail Returns

Mailings from the Plan office are often returned to us because participant addresses are out of date. Please be sure to give us your current mailing address.

Welfare Notes - February 2006

EAP Program

Chemical dependency is a progressive and potentially fatal illness.  It destroys relationships as well as personal health.  Untreated drug or alcohol problems can also cost you your job.
With the pressures facing people today, it is not unusual for people to find themselves in the downward spiral of substance abuse.  Fortunately there are treatments and solutions to correct the problem and get life headed back in the right direction.

The SUP Welfare Plan has an EAP (Employee Assistance Program) that offers counseling and assistance.  The plan is administered through Health Management Center.  Their phone line is open 24 hours 7 days per week.  Your call is completely confidential and your privacy is protected.  HMC’s phone number is 1-888-215-8903.

The HMC Employee Assistance Program is a professional evaluation, counseling, and educational program.  An EAP counselor will discuss the nature of the problem and outline a plan of action for consideration.

The SUP Welfare Plan also offers a program that will provide alcohol and drug abuse rehabilitation services for eligible members at a designated treatment center.  Benefits are limited to one rehabilitation admission per active member not to exceed a period of 28 days of rehabilitation treatment during the member’s lifetime.  Pre-authorization from the plan office is required.

SUP Welfare Plan Staff
Michelle Chang, Administrator
Steve Messenger, Training Representative
Patty Martin
Brian Farmer
Virginia Briggs
Michael Jacyna

730 Harrison Street
San Francisco CA 94107-1242
E-mail: supwelfarerep@hotmail.com