Lifestyle Returns Program
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
What are the benefits to my employer for sponsoring Lifestyle Returns?
Your employer benefits by having employees who are more engaged in all aspects of their health. By helping you understand your health status, get preventive exams, better manage your health conditions, make informed care decisions and real lifestyle changes, your quality of life will improve. Over time, this may boost your morale, decrease absenteeism and even reduce your employer’s care utilization costs.
Will my employer view the health information I submit?
No. The information you enter is kept completely confidential and will not be shared with your employer. Submitting your health history is necessary so that Lifestyle Returns can design your personalized plan for healthier living.
How do I access Lifestyle Returns?
To enter the member Web site for the first time:
Click “Log in” in the green Manage Your Plan box
Click “Register Now” in the red Log In box
Complete the registration screen and click “Submit”
To access Lifestyle Returns:
Enter the “User ID” and password
Click the “Your Health” tab
Click “Lifestyle Returns”
When can I begin the Lifestyle Returns program?
You can begin upon the effective date of your Lifestyle Returns program.
Can I participate if I do not have Highmark health coverage?
You must have Highmark medical coverage to participate.
I received a pop-up blocker message when I tried to enter Lifestyle Returns online. What should I do?
Select “Tools” from the toolbar
Then select “Pop-up Blocker”
Then select “Turn Off Pop-up Blocker”
What are the technical requirements for my computer?
Minimum browser type:
- Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE): For Windows only – version 6.0 or above
- Mozilla Firefox: For either Windows or Apple Macintosh – version 1.5 or above
- Apple Safari: For Apple Macintosh only – version 1.2 or above
- Internet access: 56k modem or Broadband (T1, cable or DSL preferred)
- Minimum 1024 X 768 screen resolution and 256 colors
- Disable pop-up blockers and enable cookies
- Manage filtering software to ensure Highmark and Highmark-approved sites are accessible
Do I need an e-mail account to participate?
Yes, if you do not have computer access at your worksite, free computer access is available at public libraries or at various locations on campus. If you do not have e-mail, you can obtain a free account via various online options.
I do not wish to receive e-mail reminder messages. How do I request that they be discontinued?If you do not wish to receive e-mail reminder messages, you will need to select the “Select Your E-mail Preference” option on the Lifestyle Returns home page and then complete the appropriate information to discontinue the messages.
Who do I call if I have password problems?
Call 1-866-306-1059 for assistance.
When I accessed Lifestyle Returns for the first time, why was I requested to select my current coverage?
You may receive this message if you changed coverage from last year and it has been less than 45 days since your prior coverage ended. Simply select your current coverage.
Pledge
Your Lifestyle Returns program starts with accepting a pledge to make an effort to lead a healthy lifestyle, partner with your physician, and be an educated health care consumer. You pledge to take the online Wellness Profile and take advantage of health education programs, tools and materials made available to you as a Lifestyle Returns member.
If you haven’t accepted your pledge, do so now by clicking on “Take the Pledge” in the “Get Started” section of the chart.
Why accept the Lifestyle Returns pledge?
The pledge is your personal commitment as a member of Lifestyle Returns. It indicates that you take responsibility for your health and lifestyle choices in order to enjoy a better quality of life and that you understand the program requirements.
Can I accept the pledge at any time during the program period?
You should accept the pledge early, since no other activities can be completed until after you accept the Pledge.
Do my dependents have to take the pledge?
No, once you have accepted the pledge, your dependents can begin the program by completing the online Wellness Profile.
Do I have to do the steps in order?
You need to Take the Pledge and complete the Wellness Profile in order. The other steps can be done in any order.
Wellness Profile
After accepting the pledge to lead a healthy lifestyle, Lifestyle Returns members complete the online Wellness Profile. The Wellness Profile is a self-health analysis that covers all aspects of your health, including nutrition, weight management, physical activity, tobacco and alcohol use, injury prevention, skin protection, immunizations and health screenings. The Profile assesses family history, current health status, and lifestyle-related information. Data from the profile is used to generate a personalized action plan, or Wellness Profile Report. This in-depth health status report can help you identify areas in need of health improvement and includes recommendations for online health and wellness programs and activities.
If you haven’t taken your Wellness Profile, do so now by clicking on “Wellness Profile” in the Assess Your Health section of the chart.
How often can I take the Wellness Profile?
You can take the Wellness Profile every 45 days.
Can I take the Wellness Profile in Spanish?
If you are completing the Wellness Profile for the first time, you will be given the option to complete the profile in Spanish.
When completing the Wellness Profile, I was asked to enter a site code. What does this mean?
If your employer wants to segment the aggregate results by worksite location, you will be given a number to enter; otherwise you may skip this question.
Do I have to take the Wellness Profile online?
Yes, the Wellness Profile must be completed online.
Do I have to complete the Wellness Profile in one session?
No, your responses will be saved as you complete each page. However, any responses in an incomplete section will not be saved.
What is the purpose of completing the Wellness Profile?
The Wellness Profile measures your current health status. It makes you aware of your health and wellness needs and lifestyle practices that determine your personal well-being. Emphasis is on the factors that can be controlled. Positive reinforcement of good health practices, along with recommendations for change when needed, are provided in your Wellness Profile Report.
Am I required to enroll in programs that are recommended in my Wellness Profile Report?
The programs and activities that are recommended based on your Wellness Profile results are likely to be the most beneficial to you. However, you are not required to enroll in the recommended programs and may select from any of the offered programs.
Who is HealthMedia?
We have contracted with this vendor to provide you with valuable health-education programs, and information designed to help you understand your health status and improve your health.
Preventive Exams
The merits of preventive exams are clear. It’s estimated that 70 percent of today’s illnesses are related to lifestyle, and therefore, preventable. Annual exams and health screenings can help you stay on top of your health. You can learn what you’re doing right and where you need to improve. And preventive exams can help people with chronic conditions better manage their illness.
Once you have scheduled your preventive exam, enter your appointment date by clicking on “Preventive Exams” in the “Assess Your Health” section of the chart.
Do I have to enter my preventive exam date online in order to receive program credit?
Yes, it is your responsibility to enter your exam appointment date.
Are screenings covered in full as part of my preventive exam?
Screenings (e.g., cholesterol, prostate exam) are subject to deductible and coinsurance, per your plan design. While screenings are not required in order for you to receive credit in the Lifestyle Returns program, your physician may recommend a specific screening based on your health status, age or medical condition.
I just had an annual exam several months prior to enrolling in the Lifestyle Returns program and I am younger than 50 years old. Can I enter the information from that exam for my preventive exams?
Yes. You can get credit for the exam as long as it was received within two years previous to your current benefit year deadline.
I participated in the Lifestyle Returns program last year and I am younger than 49 years old. Do I need to receive my preventive exam again this year?
No, if you are age 49 or younger, the date that you entered last year will automatically register on your member Web site.
I participated in the Lifestyle Returns program last year and I am over 40 years old. Do I need to receive my mammogram again this year?
No, the date that you entered last year will automatically register on your member Web site.
I received my preventive exam last year, but my physician recommended that I schedule an appointment each year. Will my benefit plan cover an annual exam?
Yes, your benefit plan will allow you to receive an annual exam. Please check your benefit booklet for the applicable cost-sharing that you may incur. Depending on your benefit plan, you may have a copayment associated with the office visit and some of the screenings may be subject to a deductible and/or coinsurance.
Am I required to have my preventive exam completed during the Lifestyle Returns program period?
You must enter the appointment date during the Lifestyle Returns program period, but your exam can occur any time during your benefit plan period.
My physician has scheduled me for a mammogram. I am only 35 years old. Should I enter my mammogram appointment date on my personalized Web page?
You will not be able to enter mammogram exam information if you are under age 40.
Does my gynecological exam count towards my physical exam?
No. You are also required to have a physical exam conducted by your primary care physician in addition to the gynecological exam.
What preventive care does Highmark cover?
Most services are covered based on age, gender and risk factors. To access an online Preventive Schedule of recommended preventive exams for children and adults click on “Learn About Preventive Care” under “Your Health” and then click “Preventive Care Guidelines.” Any additional tests that your physician orders for non-covered services may or may not be covered and, depending on your plan coverage, cost-sharing may be applied.
I have had a complete hysterectomy and no longer need to see an ob/gyn. How can I satisfy the ob/gyn exam requirement?
Your employer is expecting you to make a reasonable attempt to enter information that is accurate. Although you no longer need to have this exam, the system is looking for an exam date in order for you to receive credit. If you are in this situation, it is acceptable to enter your primary care physician physical exam date in this field.
I have had a total mastectomy and no longer need to have a mammogram. How do I complete the exam requirement without this exam?
Your employer is expecting you to make a reasonable attempt to enter information that is accurate. Although you no longer need to have this exam, the system is looking for an exam date in order for you to receive credit. If you are in this situation, it is acceptable to enter your primary care physician physical exam date in this field.
Health and Wellness Programs
Lifestyle Returns offers you a wide selection of programs so you can address your specific health needs.
Lifestyle Improvement programs can help you lead a healthier lifestyle. They include programs to help you reduce stress, manage your weight, improve your nutrition, and become more physically fit. Condition Management programs offered through Blues On Call Health Coaches help those with certain chronic conditions better manage their condition. Condition Management programs can help members with diabetes, asthma, coronary artery disease, back pain, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and congestive heart failure work with their physicians to assure they receive proper tests, treatment and medication.
To access your Health and Wellness Program Catalog, click on “Health & Wellness Programs” in the “Take Charge of Your Health” section of the chart.
When can I expect to see a completion date after I have completed a program?
For worksite and community programs, you must enter the program completion date and code given to you by your class instructor by clicking on “Enter Completion Code” link in the Health & Wellness Program Catalog. For online programs, the completion date will show “Complete” in approximately one week.
I signed up for a worksite program but only attended some of the classes. Will I still receive credit?
You must attend 75% of the classes in order to receive credit.
Can I receive credit for Health & Wellness programs by receiving a flu shot and making a call to a Blues On Call Health Coach?
You can use one of these activities but not both in order to fulfill the Health & Wellness programs portion of your Lifestyle Returns program. You are required to complete at least one Lifestyle Improvement or Condition Management program with a flu shot or call to a Blues On Call Health Coach.
Can I make a call to Blues On Call in order to receive credit, but really have no reason to call?
No, the Health Coach will want to record your call and will need a specific medical reason or condition for the call.
How do I find out what employer worksite programs are available?
Your employer should have the employer worksite programs posted for you at work. You may also choose to contact Melinda Krimmel in the Office of Health and Wellness Initiatives for additional information at ext. 2783.
How do I find out what community- and hospital-based programs are available?
Community and hospital-based programs are listed in the online Health & Wellness Program Catalog.
How do I get an explanation of each program and the time needed to complete it?
For additional information explaining these programs and the length of time needed to complete them, see the online Health & Wellness Program Catalog.
I was not able to access the HealthMedia online programs due to my browser type on my computer.
The HealthMedia Web site works best with Netscape Navigator 7 or Internet Explorer 5 and higher. You may encounter problems if you try to use other browser types.
Health/Information Tools
Your Highmark member Web site is your quick connection to information and tools to help you better manage your health. Online health information includes a comprehensive health encyclopedia and database complete with prevention and home care information for every kind of medical condition, in-depth information on thousands of medications, and home health information for applicable health conditions. Online tools can help you assess provider quality and look up typical medical expenses for a wide range of care procedures.
To access your Health and Wellness Program Catalog, click on “Health Information & Tools” in the “Take Charge of Your Health” section of the chart.
How do I receive credit for Health Information/Tools activity?
You must complete the online follow-up survey after you have used one of the tools in order to receive credit for this activity. To access the survey, click on “Health Information & Tools” in the “Take Charge of Your Health” section of the chart, then click on the “Survey” link.
Administration
What happens if I do not complete the program requirements?
If you enroll in Lifestyle Returns and do not complete the program requirements within the program period, the reward designated by your employer will not be available to you.
What are the requirements of the Steps Program?
There are 5 steps that you must complete to satisfy the program requirements. They are:
- Accept the Pledge
- Complete the online Wellness Profile
- Schedule your preventive exams
- Participate in at least two Health & Wellness Programs. You may talk to a Blues On Call Health Coach or receive a flu shot as an alternative to one Health & Wellness Program.
- Use an online Health Information/Tool and complete the follow-up survey.
What information am I required to enter on my Web page?
Most of the information needed on your Web page will be entered for you as you complete the designated programs. However, you will need to enter the program code and completion date for the programs offered at the worksite or community locations and the outlined information for preventive exams. If you are completing information for Condition Management programs or information regarding your flu shot, you will need to enter this information also.
I did not fill in some of the information displayed on my Web page. How does it get there?
As you complete an online Health & Wellness program, or make contact with a Blues On Call Health Coach, the information is automatically entered on your Web page for you.
I am enrolled in Lifestyle Returns programs with two employers. Must I complete separate program requirements under each of the employers’ programs?
It is necessary for you to accept the Lifestyle Returns pledge for each program for which you are enrolled. You must also complete the information regarding preventive exams under both employer programs. However, the same information may be entered. Other program information that is completed will apply to both employer programs as long as the completion date is during the designated coverage periods.
Who do I contact if I have a question about the information on my Web page?
You may contact the Web site Customer Service at 1-866-306-1059 or you may e-mail Highmark through the Message Center on the Highmark Web site. Click on the “Secure Mail” link from the top navigation bar, then click on “New Message” and enter “General” as the subject line of the e-mail. Complete the inquiry and send a secured message to Highmark.
I am required to enter some of the information on my personalized Web page. What happens if I enter incorrect information?
Your employer is expecting you to make a reasonable attempt to enter complete information that is accurate. Based upon the information that you provide, your employer is providing a reward to you. It is your responsibility to provide the most accurate and complete information in return. Please review your information carefully prior to submission. Failure to provide accurate and complete information under the Lifestyle Returns program may subject you to your employer’s disciplinary process.
Coverage
I am newly hired with my employer and enrolled in the Lifestyle Returns program. How much time do I have to complete the requirements?
Regardless of your coverage effective date, your completion date is based on the program period your employer has selected. You can see the program end date on your Lifestyle Returns Web page.
My coverage was terminated with my employer, although time has lapsed and my coverage is now reinstated with the same employer. Will I be given credit for the requirements that I previously met?
Your reinstated coverage is a new contract and, as with your benefits, the requirements of the Lifestyle Returns program will begin with your new coverage effective date.
My coverage was terminated with my employer and I have now enrolled in a Lifestyle Returns program with a new employer. Will I be given credit for the requirements that I met with my previous employer?
Credit for program requirements satisfied prior to your new contract period cannot be applied. Credits cannot be transferred from one employer to another.
Reward
What is my reward for completing the program/activities?
Your employer designates your reward. Please refer to the communication materials that you received from your employer during your open enrollment period.
If my employer is offering multiple reward types, am I able to change the reward type that I previously selected?
Reward type selection can only be made once during your designated program period. The reward type selection cannot be changed during the program period.
XXX