CCStpa is closely monitoring the H1N1 novel influenza virus (swine flu) situation. We have implemented business continuity plans to ensure uninterrupted health care coverage for our members. These plans also include making access to any necessary health care easy and expeditious.
To date, there has been one confirmed case of H1N1 in Minnesota. State health officials continue to monitor the situation very closely and have increased their disease surveillance efforts. At the time of this announcement, there are 141 nationally reported cases with one reported death. (These numbers will change as the outbreak progresses.)
The Minnesota Department of Health (www.health.state.mn.us/divs/idepc/diseases/flu/h1n1/index.html) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu) are reliable resources with accurate updates and useful, common-sense tips on what you can do to prevent exposure, illness and spread of this strain of influenza.
Your workplace may be preparing or deploying its own business continuity plans. CCStpa is following the business preparedness recommendations made by federal and state agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Department of Health and Human Services. They have developed guidelines, including checklists, to assist businesses, industries, and other employers in planning for a pandemic outbreak. (www.pandemicflu.gov/plan/workplaceplanning/index.html.)
Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing by infected people. There are several simple yet effective ways to protect yourself and prevent further transmission:
If you do feel ill, the CDC recommends staying home from work and limiting contact with others.
Persons experiencing flu-like symptoms should call their health care provider for advice on next steps regarding assessment and treatment.
As a temporary change in benefits, Tamiflu (oseltamivir) and Relenza (zanamivir) — the only drugs identified that address this flu strain — will be processed as formulary prescriptions for the duration of this current outbreak. If a physician prescribes either of these medications for you, the drugs will be covered. They will remain covered until the outbreak has been contained or information from the CDC and Minnesota Department of Health indicate such practice is no longer necessary. (This change is applicable for groups that have prescription drug coverage with Prime Therapeutics.*)
We are in communication with our network of providers to let them know about this benefit change so that they are able to offer immediate and appropriate care.
If you have questions about your coverage during this current health risk, contact CCStpa customer service at the number on the back of your member ID card.
*Prime Therapeutics is an independent company providing pharmacy benefit management services.
Special update on H1N1 influenza preparedness — Group Leader Bulletin May 2009