Spring 2025 Spotlight on Benefits Newsletter Now Available  

IN THIS ISSUE:

• Avoid Out-of-Pocket Costs for Labs and Tests. There are many reasons a doctor may order a lab or test for you, but if the reason for the test does not meet the Health Plan’s definition of medically necessary, you will likely pay increased out-of-pocket costs. To avoid unexpected expenses, this article offers five test-related questions to ask a provider before your tests are ordered.
• Your Annual Physical Exam: What You Should Do Before, During and After. An annual physical exam is an important opportunity for your doctor to perform preventive care that is due and to learn of any changes regarding your overall health. The Health Plan covers preventive care like annual physical exams at 100% with no deductible when performed by a network provider. This article discusses what to expect from an annual physical exam compared to similar exams (e.g., wellness visit, check-up, etc.) and what steps you should take before, during and after your appointment.
• Remember These Vital Documents and Keep Them Updated as Needed (especially as your life changes). Keeping important documents up to date with the Plans office ensures continued access to the Pension and Health benefits you have earned and allows the Plans to administer them according to your wishes. This article contains a list of documents to keep current with the Plans office and where to find them, including the Plans’ website and myPHP benefits portal.
• Be.Well. Do You Have High Blood Pressure? The Next Time You Visit the Doctor, Know What the Numbers Mean. 120 over 80, 180 over 120. For most, the blood pressure reading given to them at the beginning of a doctor appointment holds little meaning, despite its importance to your quality of life. When blood pressure is high, also called hypertension, symptoms might only appear once the condition has progressed, earning it the name “silent killer.” Read this article to learn about what blood pressure numbers mean and how to prevent and treat the condition.
• CyberSmart(er): Add a myPHP Shortcut to Your Device for Easier, Faster, Secure Login. This article provides instructions on how to add a myPHP shortcut to your Apple or Android mobile device, making access to the Plans’ benefits portal and your important pension and health benefits information (e.g., medical claims, estimated pension benefits, etc.) more convenient and secure.
• Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Notice. This annual notice informs women who have had a mastectomy or expect to have one of Health Plan benefits they may be entitled to under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998.
• Deadline for Requesting a Partial Distribution from the Supplemental Plan has Changed. Effective March 1, 2025, if you have previously received or are currently receiving distributions from the Supplemental Plan and would like to request another Supplemental Plan distribution, you must submit a completed Supplemental Plan Distribution Additional Distribution Form at least 30 days prior to your intended Effective Date. Download the form at www.dgaplans.org/forms/pension.
View or download the pdf of the newsletter here