SPRING 2012
Ka Hano Ho’ola • The Healing Breath
Can
I Ke
e
My
Doc p
tor?
UEST
Q
e
h
t Is T llment?
a
h
W
ro
n En
e
p
O
B en
ST
QUE
A r t in
Q U E na J u d
ST
g
A loh Plan M e
emb
a C ar
er
e
lu
Aluaber
Mem
Pla n ha C ar e
A lo
e
o I Hav
D
t
a
h
W
To Do?
Will I Lo
se
QUEST C My
overage
?
Kimo Ag
Q U ES T P
itten
Judy Wember
Q U ES T
osto
lan Mem
b er
AlohaCa
re
Plan M
ar e
AlohaC
What’s New
In QUEST
Answers to your questions are found on page 4.
Keiki Health (pg 8)
Kupuna Health (pg 16)
Moms-To-Be (pg 18)
Keiki Growing On Track
Staying Independent
Important Prenatal Care
A Message from AlohaCare’s CEO
A
t AlohaCare, we are proud of our long record of expert
service to Hawaii’s QUEST families. We have been a
QUEST health plan non-stop since QUEST was started
17 years ago. We are Hawaii’s only statewide, non-profit health
plan focused on QUEST and Medicare members.
Contents
Spring 2012
AlohaCare.org
page 11
Features
What’s New In QUEST.............................. 4
So we hope you pay special attention to this issue of our member
magazine. The news we share directly impacts you and your
family.
John E. McComas
Chief Executive Officer
About AlohaCare
AlohaCare is a non-profit health
plan founded in 1994 by Hawaii’s
community health centers. Today,
AlohaCare has more than 80,000
health plan members and is the
third largest health plan in Hawaii.
We partner with nearly 2,200
physicians, specialists and providers
to care for our members. We have
nearly 200 employees located at
offices on Oahu and the Big Island.
AlohaCare’s Mission
Our passion is to serve the people
of Hawaii in the true spirit of aloha
by providing a comprehensive
continuum of quality health care
to all with special expertise in
caring for those who are medically
underserved and/or medically fragile.
This is accomplished with emphasis
on prevention and primary care
through community-governed health
centers and in partnership with
physicians and other health care
providers that share our compassion
and aloha for this population.
2
Manage
Asthma Triggers
QUEST: Judy Witten’s Story.................. 12
For a Healthy Hawaii
The state has begun QUEST open enrollment. AlohaCare is
here to help our members with this process. Also, we want to
make sure you know that AlohaCare is here to make sure you get
high quality care. We care about your health and happiness as an
AlohaCare member.
Keiki Health:
Your Keiki Growing on Track............. 8
Clinical Health:
Diabetes and Asthma.................. 10/11
Teen Health:
Vaccinations for Teens...................... 14
Along with articles about keeping your family healthy, we also
want you to know AlohaCare’s important role in our community.
Our gifts, grants, and scholarships have helped improve health
care in rural and under-served areas.
Last year we gave more than $3 million to non-profits and other
groups that offer services to our members. This money went
to projects that work on access to care, quality care and disease
prevention.
We also work hard at the Capitol. Our efforts urge the state
to support more health programs for low-income families and
people with disabilities.
We are honored to serve our members in all these ways. It is our
mission. We work hard at it. And we are grateful that you have
chosen AlohaCare as your QUEST plan.
Kupuna Health:
Staying Independent........................ 16
Moms-To-Be:
Prenatal Care..................................... 18
What’s New
In QUEST
page 4
Member Information
In the Community..................................... 7
Medicare Matters.................................... 17
Healthy Recipe......................................... 20
Calendar of Events.................................. 22
MK12_PUB_MQD 02228012
The AlohaCare member magazine is written and produced locally by AlohaCare
staff members. We care about what you think. If you have suggestions or
comments on how we can better serve you, please call or write us. You can
also give us feedback online by clicking “Contact Us” at www.AlohaCare.org.
1357 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 1250, Honolulu, HI 96814
Call: 973-1650 • Toll-free: 1-800-434-1002 • TTY: 1-877-447-5990
Fax: 973-0726 • Toll-free fax: 1-800-830-7222
AlohaCare is published quarterly as a benefit for AlohaCare QUEST, AlohaCare
Advantage (HMO) and AlohaCare Advantage Plus (HMO SNP) members. Each issue
is also available online at AlohaCare.org. AlohaCare magazine is not intended to
replace the advice of health care professionals. Please consult your physician for
your personal needs and before making any changes in your lifestyle.
Printed by Edward Enterprises, Inc.
3
What’s New In QUEST –
What Does It Mean To You?
Will I lose my QUEST coverage?
As long as you continue to be eligible for the QUEST
program, you will not lose your QUEST coverage.
Kimo Agosto
QUEST Plan Member
AlohaCare
The Hawaii Department of Human Services (DHS) has begun the QUEST Open
Enrollment Period. You may have some questions about it. There’s no need to
worry; we’ve already answered some of them for you here.
Artinna Judge
QUEST Plan Member
AlohaCare
Can I keep my doctor?
As long as you are a member of AlohaCare, you can
go to the same doctors you have seen in the past.
What is the QUEST
Open Enrollment?
The QUEST Open Enrollment is from
March 1 to March 30. You have received
a packet from the Department of Human
Services (DHS). This packet includes
information about the new QUEST
program beginning on July 1, 2012.
Judy Witten
QUEST Plan Member
AlohaCare
4
Ben Alualu
QUEST Plan Member
AlohaCare
What do I have to do?
To remain a member of AlohaCare, you don’t need
to do anything. You do not have to return the packet
to stay with us. You’ll be able to continue receiving
the great services from AlohaCare. You’ll also get the
friendly and helpful services you have come to expect.
At AlohaCare, we are committed to keeping you
healthy and providing you with quality care.
Will I receive a packet for each person in my
family on QUEST?
What if I lose AlohaCare as my QUEST
health plan?
You will only receive one packet for your household.
It will be addressed to the name of the Case Holder.
The Case Holder is the parent/guardian if he/she
is also a QUEST member. Otherwise, it will be
the name of the oldest QUEST member in your
household.
You will be able to rejoin AlohaCare during the 30day grace period. The grace period is from July 2 to
July 31. Contact your Med-QUEST eligibility worker
at 1-800-316-8005 to choose AlohaCare during the
30-day grace period.
What if I want a member of my family to
switch to AlohaCare?
He or she must choose AlohaCare as their new
QUEST health plan and return the packet. If the
packet is not returned, your family member will
remain with their current QUEST health plan.
Can I still use my AlohaCare ID card?
Use your AlohaCare ID card each time you see the
doctor or visit the pharmacy. In July, each AlohaCare
QUEST member will receive a new ID card.
Who do I call if I have questions?
Call the AlohaCare Customer Service Department
at 973-1650 or toll-free at 1-800-434-1002,
TTY: 1-877-477-5990. We are here to help you.
Thank you for choosing AlohaCare as your QUEST health plan.
5
In The Community
AlohaCare Awards $30,000 in
Grants to Community Groups
KEEP ALOHACARE
as Your QUEST Plan.
In 2011, AlohaCare gave $30,000 to
six Hawaii non-profits through our
annual Community Conscience Awards.
AlohaCare has given $300,000 to
non-profits statewide since the award
began in 2002. The award was created
in memory of Rev. Frank Chong. He was
a founding board member of AlohaCare.
The award winners are listed below.
AlohaCare’s Dr. Sharon Tisza (third from left) and
Daryl Huff (far right), present a check to
Keoneula Elementary School.
Keoneula Elementary School
During the QUEST Open Enrollment, you do not have to do anything to stay an
AlohaCare member. You will continue to receive the same great services, including:
»» Customer Service staff in Hawaii who know our local communities
»» A large provider network so you can choose your doctors
»» Specialized Care Coordinators to make sure you get the services you need
»» Prevention programs to help you and your family stay healthy
»» Dedicated employees who care for your well-being
We’re committed to keeping you healthy by providing you with quality health care.
Thank you for being our AlohaCare member.
This Ewa Beach school will start a walking
and running club for students with the grant.
The club is for students in grades 4 through
6. It is part of the school’s healthy eating and
activity program.
Ma Ka Hana Ka Ike
This Maui program teaches at-risk youth
work skills. They build ramps for homes
that need wheelchair access. The ramps help
seniors to live independently.
Malama Kauai (Kauai School Garden Network)
This program aims to reduce keiki obesity with a school
garden. It will also work to get healthy, locally-grown food into
schools on Kauai.
Na Hoaloha
This grant will provide Maui seniors with transportation
services. It will take them to doctor visits, out shopping and
other errands.
Na Puuwai (Native Hawaiian Health Care System)
This grant is for the Molokai Drugs Health Care Program,
which helps people manage their medications. This program
is for people who are 45 years and older. It will provide health
education, counseling and drug management to patients.
YWCA of Hawaii Island
The grant will help pay for families to take part in
water exercise classes.
If you have questions, call AlohaCare for more information:
Call: 973-1650 • Toll-free: 1-800-434-1002 • TTY: 1-877-447-5990 • www.AlohaCare.org
Keoneula Elementary School’s walking
and running club for students.
7
Keiki Health
ADD & ADHD
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention
Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can cause
problems at school, home and at play. These children
can be easily distracted, impulsive and overly active.
Is Your
Keiki
Growing
On Track?
Children grow quickly.
Sometimes certain skills take
a little longer to catch up with
their bodies. Skills such as
talking, walking and reading
are called developmental
milestones. Children reach
these points at their own pace.
However, developmental delays
lead to learning problems. Talk
with your child’s doctor and
share your concerns.
A child with ADHD might:
• not seem to listen
• be easily distracted
• not stop moving, fidgeting
Your baby’s first step, smiling for the first time,
and waving “bye-bye” are developmental
milestones. Below are some of the things you
should look for as your keiki grows. Use this as
a guide. If you have any concerns, talk with your
child’s doctor.
At 6 months
• interrupt when others are speaking
Children often have trouble focusing and behaving
from time to time. Yet, children with ADD or ADHD
do not grow out of these behaviors. There is no single
test to diagnose ADD and ADHD. Other problems
have similar symptoms such as anxiety, depression and
some learning disabilities. If you are concerned about
your child’s behavior, talk with your child’s doctor.
As a parent, you know your child best. There is no
way to tell when a child will reach a milestone. If
you think there could be a problem, don’t wait. Your
doctor can screen for developmental delays at wellchild visits. These screenings are simple tests. They
will tell if children are learning basic skills or have a
disorder limiting them.
ASDs
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) can hinder social
and behavioral skills in children. Some cases are mild,
and others are severe. It can vary child to child. These
disorders include:
• Autism is also called “classical autism.” It has
symptoms of severe speech and mental delays.
• Asperger syndrome is a mild form of autism with
social delays, but usually it is seen without speech
or mental delays.
At 1 year
How Can AlohaCare Help Me?
AlohaCare has resources for families to stay healthy.
We also work with many programs around the state to
help families grow and develop together. Call Customer
Service to learn more.
National Resource Center on ADHD
This website has helpful information on ADHD.
www.help4adhd.org
• Points to show someone
what he/she wants
• Plays simple pretend, such
as feeding a doll
At 2 years
• Shows more and more
independence
• Says sentences with 2 to 4
words
At 3 years
Helpful Web sites
Center for Disease Control and Prevention – Act Early!
This website lists developmental milestones for your
child. It also has resources for detecting delays and
signs of autism.
www.cdc.gov/actearly
• Says “mama” and “dada”
and responds to simple
spoken requests
• Plays games such as
“peek-a-boo”
At 18 months
Your keiki’s mental and physical health depends
on eating right, rest and exercise. Reading, playing
or just talking with your children can help in their
development.
• Responds to own name
• Knows familiar faces and
begins to know if someone
is a stranger
• talk a lot
• Pervasive developmental disorder is also called
“atypical autism.” It is similar to autism, but
symptoms are milder and cases vary.
8
Developmental Milestones
• Dresses and undresses self
• Carries on a conversation
using 2 to 3 sentences
At 4 years
• Tells stories
• Begins to understand time
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
9
Managing
Asthma Triggers
at Home
Clinical Health
Diabetes &
Eye Disease
Sometimes we suffer from an illness or disease without being able to see it. For
example, people with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes are at risk of diabetic eye diseases.
They must pay extra attention to their health. These diseases are eye problems that
people may face as a complication of diabetes. They can cause vision loss or blindness.
Diabetic Retinopathy
This is the most common diabetic eye disease.
It is also the leading cause of blindness in
American adults. Nearly half of Americans
diagnosed with diabetes have some stage of the
disease. It is caused by changes in the blood
vessels of the eye.
Cataract & Glaucoma
A cataract affects the eye’s lens and makes
vision cloudy. It is found earlier in people with
diabetes. Glaucoma is a disease that damages
the optic nerve in the eye. It may lead to a loss
of vision. Glaucoma is nearly twice as common
in diabetics.
Prevention
Control your diabetes. People who keep their
blood sugar levels normal are less likely to have
kidney and nerve disease. Ask your doctor how
to better control your blood sugar levels.
Diabetic retinopathy is also a problem for
women with diabetes during pregnancy. Every
pregnant woman with diabetes should have an
eye exam as soon as possible.
Detection
How Can AlohaCare Help Me?
• Retinal eye exam is used to detect diabetic
retinopathy by looking at the retina. The
retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back
of the eye.
AlohaCare’s Disease Management team
helps members control diabetes and other
chronic diseases. If you have questions or
concerns, please call Customer Service
at 973-1650 or toll-free at 1-800-434-1002,
TTY: 1-877-477-5990. Ask to speak with a
Disease Management nurse.
There are several tests your doctor can do to
check your vision.
• An eye chart test is used to find out how
well you see at various distances.
10
• Dilated eye exam places eye drops in your
eyes to widen the pupils. This exam allows
your doctor to see inside your eyes to check
for the disease.
• Eye pressure test measures the pressure
inside your eyes. Increased pressure is a
possible sign of glaucoma.
Diabetics should get an eye exam at least
once a year. Eye exams to diagnose or
treat a medical condition are covered by
AlohaCare. Contact your Primary Care
Provider (PCP) to schedule yours today.
Behind the fridge, under the couch, deep in the closet;
these are all places where allergens hide. An allergen is
something that triggers allergies. They can often trigger
asthma symptoms, too. Spring is a good time to start a
cleaning routine in your home. For asthma sufferers and
their families, a clean home is a safe home.
Bedroom
• Wash bedding in hot water once a week and dry completely.
• Use dust-proof covers on pillows and mattresses.
• Vacuum carpets and furniture every week.
• Choose stuffed toys that you can wash in hot water. Dry
them completely before giving them back to your child.
Kitchen
• Wash dishes regularly, clean up food messes and spills.
• Store food in covered containers.
Bathroom
• Remove molds with soap and
water.
• Use an exhaust fan or open a
window when showering.
• Fix leaky faucets to prevent
mold growth.
Elsewhere in the
House
• Cover trash cans.
Cats or dogs have dander,
which can trigger asthma. Keep them
outdoors as much as possible and vacuum
regularly.
• When cooking on a gas stove, use an exhaust fan to reduce
nitrogen dioxide. It can bother your eyes, nose and throat.
This gas can also cause shortness of breath, which can lead
to an asthma attack.
Second-hand smoke comes from the exhaled
smoke of a cigarette, cigar or pipe. If a family
member or someone close to you smokes, ask
them to smoke outside your home.
• Seal cracks or openings around or inside cabinets.
• Use roach baits or traps instead of sprays.
How Can AlohaCare Help Me?
AlohaCare’s Disease Management team has great nurses and
educational materials about chronic disease like asthma. Call Customer
Service at the number on the back of this magazine to learn more.
11
QUEST Member Profile
Judy Witten’s
Story
Y
ou may recognize Judy Witten from
our TV commercials. Last year, we
helped her recover from heart surgery.
Her return to health is inspiring, but that isn’t
the whole story. Judy and her family have
been a part of AlohaCare’s QUEST ohana for
over ten years.
In 2001, Judy’s husband, James was diagnosed
with bone cancer at the young age of 40. He was a
fisherman from Haleiwa, Oahu, whom his family
and friends affectionately called, Jay Boy. The couple
visited nine different doctors before he was diagnosed
correctly.
“We had exhausted our savings in the process,” said
Judy. A social worker at Queens Hospital helped them
get in touch with AlohaCare.
Doc became James’ care coordinator. Doc “was
heaven sent. From the very start, he did everything to
help us get everything we needed, and
was always there
when I called,”
said Judy.
Judy, Jam
12
Nash with his mother, Judy Witten.
e s an d N
ash.
James was getting
chemotherapy and
needed spinal surgery.
There were only two
doctors in the U.S.
who could do it. The
closest one was at the
University of California
Los Angeles Medical
Center. With Doc’s help,
they got approval for the
out-of-state surgery.
The surgery was a success.
The cancer was removed
and 10 metal rods were
placed in his hip and spine. Judy said he walked the
next day. James was in remission for two years. He
had 23 surgeries during the whole ordeal.
Yet, the day
after his annual
check-up, “his
left leg didn’t
work,” said Judy.
“He could not
walk, the pain
Nash and Judy
was unbearable,”
she added. The
cancer had returned. James Witten lived another year
“filled with pain and agony” until he died on August
16, 2004. “I lost the love of my life and our 12-yearold son lost his father,” said Judy.
Just six years later while the Witten’s son, Nash, was
in college studying to enter medical school, Judy
began to feel sick. In October, 2010, she had heart
failure and needed emergency surgery. A valve and
hole were repaired in her heart. That left Nash to care
for his mother while studying and commuting from
Manoa to Haleiwa everyday.
“I came home with a walker, oxygen, and was a very
weak, sick lady,” said Judy. Just walking to the kitchen
was a challenge for her. “That’s when Lerna, my
assigned AlohaCare nurse, and I became friends.
She called all the time helping and organizing my
around the clock care,” she added. Months later,
Lerna still calls Judy to check on her progress.
Just after her surgery, Judy was on seven different
medications. With Lerna’s help, she was able to
manage her doses appropriately. Slowly, she weaned
off the medication and found renewed strength.
“I had a hole in my heart my whole life that the
doctor fixed when my valve collapsed. Now I have a
vitality I had never felt before the emergency surgery,”
said Judy. “AlohaCare and the QUEST program have
been awesome, quite frankly I would not be here
today without them. I will forever be grateful for the
care of the doctors, surgeons, my son, friends and
most of all my AlohaCare.”
13
Teen Health
Here are the shots our doctors recommend for teens:
Teens Need
Vaccinations, Too
We often think that
vaccinations, or shots,
are only necessary during
childhood. But teens need a
few, too. As teens become
sexually active or prepare
to move into shared living
spaces, like a college dorm or
military barracks, some shots
are recommended.
Vaccination shots, such as Tdap and flu, prevent
teens from catching seasonal viruses. So it is
important for preteens (11 or 12 years old) and teens
(13 to 18 years old) to get their shots. The vaccines
also help protect their friends and family members.
There are four vaccines recommended for preteens
and teens. All kids should get a flu shot every year.
The other three vaccines should be given starting
at preteen years. Teens may need to catch-up on
vaccines they missed when they were a preteen.
Teens may also need a vaccine booster.
An annual wellness checkup or physical for sports,
camp or college is a good time for teens to get the
recommended vaccinations. Be sure to check with
the doctor to make sure that your teen has received
all recommended childhood vaccines.
Meningococcal Vaccine
Tdap
This shot helps prevent meningitis. This disease
affects the brain and spinal cord. It is usually
caused by a viral or bacterial infection. About
20% of survivors of this disease have long-term
disabilities, such as brain damage and hearing
loss. If untreated, meningitis can be fatal in two
days or less.
The Tdap vaccine protects against tetanus,
diphtheria and pertussis (also called “whooping
cough”). Whooping cough can make teens sick
enough to miss several weeks of school. As kids
get older, the keiki shot begins to wear off and
an update is needed during their teen years.
When to get the shot: At age 11 or 12, with
another shot at age 16. For teens that get the
shot when they are 13 to 15 years old, they’ll
need an extra shot between 16 and 18 years old.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine
primarily protects girls and young women from
getting cervical cancer. It also protects both boys
and girls from anal cancer and genital warts.
When to get the shot: 11 and 12 years old for
boys and girls. Suggested dosage is 3 shots over
six months.
When to get the shot: Preteens should get a
single dose of Tdap. Teens that have not yet
gotten Tdap should get a single dose as soon as
possible.
Influenza (Flu)
This shot protects against seasonal flu viruses.
Most people will recover from the flu in less
than 2 weeks. But often, sinus infections and
other diseases are common with the flu. Teens
with asthma or diabetes especially need to get
the shot to avoid additional risks from the flu.
When to get the shot: Everyone 6 months of
age and older should get a flu shot every year.
Preteens and teens should get a flu shot in the
fall or as soon as it is available each year.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
How Can AlohaCare Help Me?
As an AlohaCare QUEST member, these shots are free as
part of Early Periodic Screening and Disease Treatment
(EPSDT). Call our EPSDT staff to learn more about shots for
your teen and keiki.
Help keep your teens healthy and safe with vaccinations.
14
15
Transportation
Kupuna Health
With so many ways to keep busy,
seniors may need some extra help
getting around. There are many services
available so you don’t have to drive to
and from these activities.
Staying Independent
as a Senior
As we age, our lifestyles change. We find new ways to live independently.
Retired seniors with grown children often find themselves with more free
time than expected. Figuring out what to do with all this free time can be
confusing—even stressful. But it is also an opportunity!
There are a number of ways seniors can keep
busy learning, growing and getting around.
• Continuing education is a great way to
keep the mind young. Many schools and
community centers offer discounted or free
classes for seniors. Take a class in arts and
crafts, computers, music and more.
• Part-time jobs can be another way to stay
busy for those with the time and energy.
Sometimes it’s hard for seniors to make
the change into a retired lifestyle after
working for many years. Seniors can find it
rewarding to work just a few days a week.
It will give you a little responsibility and a
schedule to keep. You can also make money
and new friends at a job you enjoy.
16
• Exercise classes help you to stay fit and
socialize with others. Many city and
county recreation centers offer classes for
little or no cost. Join a walking group,
take up tai chi or take your pet for a walk
in the park.
• Volunteering is another great way to be
out and about for seniors. Seniors often
like to give back to the community and
good causes. Donating your time to
help out others is rewarding in its own.
Getting out of the house and socializing
is an extra perk.
On Oahu, TheBus offers special fare rates
for seniors and people with disabilities.
The Handi-Van is a public service for
people who are unable to use the City’s
bus service. There are similar services on
the neighbor islands, too. Check out the
resources below for more information.
Maui’s Na Hoaloha provides
transportation to seniors on Maui.
Recently, AlohaCare gave a grant for this
project. Read more about it on page 7.
Medicare Matters
Dual Eligibility for
Medicare Enrollment
If you have Medicare and full-benefit Medicaid coverage, then
you can enroll in our AlohaCare Advantage Plus (HMO SNP)
plan any time throughout the year.
AlohaCare Advantage Plus is a Special Needs Plan. It offers you
medical and drug coverage. Our benefits include:
• PCP visits
• Vision coverage
• Specialists visits
• Preventive services
• Hospital stays
• Test, X-rays and Lab services
• Drug coverage
As a member of AlohaCare Advantage Plus, you will be helped by
a Member Service Navigator. They will meet with you so that you
get to know your health plan. They can also:
• Help make and attend doctor visits with you
• Assist you with your pharmacy needs
• Help you understand your benefits
Resources for Seniors
Find services in your area:
Hawaii Aging and Disability
Resource Center:
• Assist you with language translation
New Medicare Benefits for AlohaCare Advantage (HMO)
and AlohaCare Advantage Plus (HMO SNP) Members
Oahu: (808) 768-7700
Medicare has expanded its coverage of preventive services.
These services are available at no cost to you, just like the other
preventive services you receive as our member. You must see a
network provider for these services. Medicare has added four
extra benefits for you.
Kauai: (808) 241-4470
• Screening and Behavioral Counseling Interventions in
Primary Care to Reduce Alcohol Misuse
Maui: (808) 270-7774
• Screening for Depression in Adults
(808) 643-2372 • TTY: (808) 643-0889
Molokai: (808) 553-5241
Lanai: (808) 565-7114
Big Island:
Hilo: (808) 961-8626
Kona: (808) 323-4390
• Intensive Behavioral Therapy for Cardiovascular Disease
• Screening for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and
High Intensity Behavioral Counseling to Prevent STIs
Talk to your Primary Care Provider (PCP) about these new
preventive services. For more details, call our Customer Service at
973-6395 or toll-free at 1-866-973-6395,
8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days week.
TTY users call 1-877-447-5990.
17
Moms-To-Be
Prenatal Tests
Prenatal Care Outlines
Some of these visits are more than just tests and
exams. They can be fun and exciting, too.
You and your doctor have plenty to discuss! You might
want to include your partner in the appointment as well.
• Quad Screen Test examines plasma protein
and hormone levels in the mother’s blood. It
is performed between 16 and 18 weeks.
First Trimester:
• Medical history. Share any family history of birth
defects or genetic diseases. Be sure to mention even
sensitive issues, such as abortion or past drug use.
• Ultrasound Test use sound waves to view
your baby’s growth. This usually happens at
18 to 20 weeks. You will be able to see an
image of your baby.
Pregnancy and Prenatal
Care Go Hand In Hand
• Due date. Establishing your due date early in pregnancy
allows your doctor to monitor your baby’s growth as
accurately as possible.
• Nonstress Test is usually performed at
28 weeks. In this test your doctor will
record your baby’s heartbeat. You will be
able to hear it for the first time.
• Physical exam. Your doctor will check your weight,
height and blood pressure. Your doctor may also
perform pelvic exam for any abnormalities and to help
confirm the stage of your pregnancy.
If you’re healthy and there are no risk factors,
you can expect to see your doctor:
• Lab tests. Your doctor will likely do blood and urine
tests. Other tests may be performed to measure your
baby’s health.
• Once a month for the first seven months
• Then, twice a month in your eighth month
• Finally, every week after that until your
baby is born
Second Trimester:
• Track your baby’s growth. By measuring your abdomen,
your doctor can gauge your baby’s growth.
• Check baby’s movement. Tell your doctor when you
begin noticing flutters or kicks.
Third Trimester:
• Physical exam. Your doctor will continue to monitor your
blood pressure and weight.
Once you become pregnant,
you start planning for a life
with a new baby. That planning
should begin with scheduling
prenatal visits with your doctor.
At these visits, your doctor will
make sure that you’re healthy
so your baby will be, too.
18
Your first prenatal visit usually takes longer than
the others. It will include:
• Due Date: This is the estimated date that your
baby will be born. The due date helps your
doctor measure your baby’s growth.
• Physical Exam: Your height, weight and blood
pressure will be measured. Your doctor will
also do a pelvic exam to see how your baby is
growing.
• Tests: Routine blood, urine, Pap and diabetes
tests will be performed. Sometime during your
pregnancy, your doctor might need to do extra
tests to measure your baby’s health.
How Can AlohaCare Help Me?
Maternity care services have no cost for
our AlohaCare QUEST members. These
services include prenatal visits, ultrasound
tests, delivery, the hospital stay and
postpartum (after-birth) check-ups.
Call Customer Service at the numbers on
the back of this magazine if you need help
finding a doctor.
• Baby’s heartbeat. You will be able to listen to your
baby’s heartbeat.
• Check baby’s movement. Your doctor will make sure
your cervix is properly dilating for the delivery and the
baby is in best position for birth.
Keep Asking Questions
You may have plenty of questions as your due date
approaches. Is it OK to have sex? How will I know when
I’m in labor? What’s the best way to manage the pain? Ask
away! Feeling prepared can help calm your nerves before
delivery.
Source: Mayo Clinic
19
Sesame (Soy) C hicken and
Edamame Stir-Fry
By Alyssa Moreau
Photography by
Adriana Torres Chong
Stimulate Your Mind by Doing a Puzzle
Word Find
Find words about asthma triggers in the home.
For more information, see page 11.
Y
K
T
I
J
S
N
N
Create texture, flavor
and color with your
favorite vegetables
and starches.
A
O
K
U
D
I
8 oz.
1 tbsp.
2 cups
1/2 cup
Buckwheat or soba noodles
Light oil (canola, vegetable)
Soy chicken cutlets*
Red bell pepper, sliced
1 tbsp.
1 stalk
2 cloves
2 tbsp.
1 tbsp.
2 tbsp.
1 cup
1/2 cup
1/4 cup
1 tbsp.
Fresh ginger, minced
Lemongrass, minced
Garlic, minced
Mirin sauce
Sesame oil
Soy sauce, low-sodium
Edamame (soybeans), fresh or frozen, cooked, shelled
Snap peas
Green onions, sliced
Black sesame seeds
3 to 4 servings.
20
• Cook noodles as directed on the package. Rinse and drain well.
Toss with a little sesame oil and low-sodium soy sauce.
• While noodles are cooking, start the stir-fry.
• Heat oil in the sauté pan and cook the soy chicken and red
bell pepper until cutlets strips start to brown and bell peppers
begin to soften.
• Add in the ginger, lemongrass and garlic and cook for 1 minute.
• Add in mirin, sesame oil, and soy sauce and mix in well.
• Add in the Edamame, snap peas and green onions. Cook a few
minutes or until the snap peas are crisp-tender.
Z
V
W
R
A
Y
E
D
K
P
Z
W
P
O
D
Y
E
S
K
M
Z
A
X
J
U
H
S
A
T
T
A
C
K
P
J
N
U
S
X
H
O
A
P
P
Y
O
G
T
A
D
U
S
P
T
G
N
I
R
P
S
R
O
P
E
G
K
S
H
O
N
R
E
Q
K
M
A
R
M
I
T
U
W
O
G
O
D
V
E
S
X
C
Y
T
O
C
G
R
W
L
C
M
Z
W
Y
S
O
C
I
L
U
J
O
W
O
E
D
F
U
Q
R
H
X
E
K
M
C
H
Z
Z
W
U
T
V
M
E
I
A
M
H
T
S
A
Q
L
N
Q
Z
G
N
M
ASTHMA
TRIGGER
HOME
CLEAN
KITCHEN
DANDER
SYMPTOMS
N
SPRING
I
ATTACK
E
MOLD
L
E
Language Help Is Available
Oahu: 973-1650
Neighbor
Islands/Oahu
(toll-free):
1-800-434-1002
TTY:
1-877-447-5990
• Garnish with toasted black sesame seeds. Serve over soba
noodles.
*Soy chicken cutlets are made from soy-based products.
They are found at most health food stores, and resemble diced,
cooked chicken in consistency and appearance.
This recipe is from A Dash of Aloha. It is available at local bookstores and www.bookshawaii.net.
21
Calendar of Events • Spring 2012
Turning 65 soon?
Learn about our local
Medicare options.
Maui
March 24 • 14th Annual Maui Start! Heart Walk & Health Fair
Join the Heart Walk and stay for the health fair. Visit each of the American Heart Association villages to
learn more about your heart health.
Diane Ako
for AlohaCare
7 a.m. – 11 a.m. • Keopuolani Park, Wailuku • www.mauiheartwalk.org • 244-7185 • FREE
Oahu
AlohaCare offers Hawaii’s seniors quality
Medicare coverage at a great value. As a local
insurance company, we call the Islands home and
have a special understanding of the needs
of kūpuna in our community.
April 20 – May 18 • Children’s Art Exhibit at Honolulu Hale
For the 10th anniversary of AlohaCare’s statewide Children’s Art Contest, Honolulu Hale will feature the
top 50 drawings from this year.
Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. • Honolulu, Hale • www.honolulu.gov • FREE
May 1 • 85th Annual Lei Day Celebration
A lei is a symbol of aloha and every year on the first of May, Honolulu celebrates Lei Day. Events will
happen all over town from lei making classes to entertainment and contests.
9 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Kapiolani Park Bandstand, Honolulu • www.honolulu.gov • FREE
Big Island
May 12 – 13 • Kau Coffee Festival
This event will feature a Miss Kau Coffee pageant, crafts fair, coffee tasting, music and more.
Our two plans—AlohaCare Advantage and AlohaCare Advantage Plus—are both Medicare Advantage
Prescription Drug Plans. The plans offer comprehensive, affordable medical and prescription drug
coverage, with benefits and services beyond Original Medicare.
Pahala Community Center • www. kaucoffeefestival.com • 929-9550 • FREE
Are you eligible for AlohaCare Advantage?
We’ll talk you through our Medicare plan options. Call us!
Kauai
Call: 973-6395 • Toll-free: 1-866-937-6395 • TTY: 1-877-447-5990
8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week
May 24 – 27 • Kauai Polynesian Festival
Enjoy the Polynesian farmer’s market, dances, games and workshops. The event will also feature a talent
show for kids called, “U Tink U Get Talent?”
Vindha Stadium Soccer Field, Lihue • www.kauaipolynesianfestival.org • 335-6466 •
$10 per day. Children (age 5 & under) are FREE
About Us
AlohaCare is a Hawaii-based Medicaid and Medicare insurance plan. We were founded in 1994 by Hawaii’s
community health centers to provide medical coverage for Medicaid beneficiaries. As Hawaii’s 33rd largest
business in the state, AlohaCare helps its members—from keiki to kupuna—stay healthy. We contract with
health care providers who emphasize prevention, disease management and health education.
AlohaCare Advantage (HMO) is a health plan with a Medicare contract. AlohaCare Advantage Plus (HMO SNP)
is a Coordinated Care Plan with a Medicare Advantage contract but without a contract with the Hawaii Medicaid
program.
H5969_401046_1 File & Use 12172011
22
Presorted
Standard
U.S. Postage
PAID
Honolulu, HI
Permit No. 985
1357 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 1250
Honolulu, HI 96814
QUEST
973-1650 • Toll-free: 1-800-434-1002
7:45 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday
Medicare
973-6395 • Toll-free: 1-866-973-6395
8 a.m. - 8 p.m., 7 days a week
TTY: 1-877-447-5990
www.AlohaCare.org
HEALTH OR WELLNESS OR
PREVENTION INFORMATION
H5969_400918_2 File & Use 03042012
Get a Less Expensive Lipitor®
AlohaCare Advantage (HMO) Members:
Are you taking Lipitor? Lipitor is a common drug used for high
cholesterol. It is available to AlohaCare Advantage (HMO) members
as a non-preferred brand drug (Tier 4).
Atorvastatin is a generic drug similar to Lipitor. It is now available as a
non-preferred generic drug (Tier 2). A generic drug is approved by
the FDA and has the same active ingredient as the brand name drug.
Generic drugs generally cost less than a brand name drug.
Talk to your Primary Care Provider (PCP) about atorvastatin.
Atorvastatin
(Non-preferred generic drug) Lipitor
(Brand drug)
$7 copay for 30-day supply
$80 copay for 30-day supply
$21 copy for 90-day supply
$240 copay for 90-day supply
Mail-Order
Pharmacy
You can also save
money by getting your
prescription drugs mailed
to your home.
A 90-day supply of
mail-order drugs will
cost less than the retail
pharmacy. You can get
a 90-day supply for a
2-month copay.
For more information on
mail-order services,
call 1-800-501-6763.