For Your Benefit Magazine — Greater New York — Winter 2017-2018

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For Your Benefit DEDICATED TO THE HEALTH & WELL-BEING OF 1199SEIU MEMBERS

WINTER 2017–2018

EN ESPANOL p16

Meet Our Featured Member

Joe Mendolia An unflattering photo spurred Joe Mendolia to commit to losing weight and getting fit. With the help of his health coverage and some lifestyle changes, he’s lost nearly 20 pounds and improved his overall health.

Plus! Now You Can Apply for Your Pension Benefit Online! See page 11


For Your Benefit

CONTENTS

BENEFITS UPDATE & NEWS

MEMBER PROFILE

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A Message from Dr. Van H. Dunn, Chief Medical Officer

An unflattering photo spurred Joe Mendolia to commit to losing weight and getting fit. With the help of his health coverage and some lifestyle changes, he’s lost nearly 20 pounds and improved his overall health.

Important Changes to Prescription Pain Medication Policy Get Help Managing Your Diabetes with Our Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Program 5

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Feeling Sick and Can’t Reach Your Doctor? Call Teladoc for Care Anytime, Anywhere! Make Sure Your Refund Is All It Can Be with Free Tax Preparation Assistance NBF members: Paid Family Leave Benefit Begins January 1, 2018 Greater New York Members: Open Enrollment for Spouses Begins January 1

Joe Mendolia

HEALTHY LIVING 10 Addiction to Painkillers Is Common: What You Need to Know

FINANCIAL WELLNESS 11 Now You Can Apply for Your Pension Benefit Online!

MEMBERSHIP ADVANTAGES 12 Our Prenatal Workshop Can Help Ensure You Have a Healthy Pregnancy

WINTER 2017–2018

Learn Healthy Habits at Our First 2018 Wellness Workshop Get Your Copy of the 2018 Protecting Our Health Calendar

YOUR TRAINING AND EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS 13 Training and Upgrading Fund Prepares Members for Evolving Healthcare Field

YOUR CHILD-CARE BENEFITS 14 Anne Shore Sleep-Away Camp Program: Give Your Child an Unforgettable Experience! 15 Request the Joseph Tauber Scholarship Application Take Advantage of Your Child Care Funds Resources

Discrimination Is Against the Law The 1199SEIU Benefit Funds comply with applicable federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate against or exclude people on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex. The Funds provide free aids and services to people with disabilities to communicate effectively with us, such as qualified sign language interpreters and written information in other formats (large print, audio, accessible electronic formats). The Funds provide free language services to people whose primary language is not English, such as qualified interpreters and information written in other languages. If you need these services, contact the Compliance Coordinator. If you believe the Funds have failed to provide these services or discriminated in another way on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex, you can file a grievance with: Compliance Coordinator, 330 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036; (646) 473-6600 (phone); (646) 473-8959 (fax); PrivacyOfficer@1199Funds.org (email). You can file a grievance in person or by mail, fax or email. If you need help filing a grievance, the Compliance Coordinator can help you. You can also file a civil rights complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights, electronically through the Office for Civil Rights Complaint Portal, available at https://ocrportal.hhs.gov/ Complaint forms are available at http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/office/file/index.html. Language Assistance Services disponibili servizi di assistenza linguistica gratuiti. Chiamare il numero (646) 473-9200.

(646) 473-9200.

gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al (646) 473-9200. 注意:如果 使用繁體中文, 可以免費獲得語言援助 服務。請致電 (646) 473-9200。

‫רופט‬. ‫פאר אייך שפראך הילף סערוויסעס פריי פון אפצאל‬ ‫ זענען פארהאן‬,‫ אויב איר רעדט אידיש‬:‫אויפמערקזאם‬ (646) 473-9200.

ВНИМАНИЕ: Если вы говорите на русском языке, то вам доступны бесплатные услуги перевода. Звоните (646) 473-9200. disponib gratis pou ou. Rele (646) 473-9200. 주의: 한국어를 사용하시는 경우, 언어 지원 서비스를 무료로 이용하실 수 있습니다(646) 473-9200.

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:

,

gumamit ng mga serbisyo ng tulong sa wika nang walang bayad. Tumawag sa (646) 473-9200. UWAGA: Jeżeli mówisz po polsku, możesz skorzystać z bezpłatnej pomocy językowej. Zadzwoń pod numer (646) 473-9200.

ΠΡΟΣΟΧΗ: Αν μιλάτε ελληνικά, στη διάθεσή σας βρίσκονται υπηρεσίες γλωσσικής υποστήριξης, οι οποίες παρέχονται δωρεάν. Καλέστε (646) 473-9200.


Message from the Executive Director Dear Members, In every issue of For Your Benefit, we update you on changes to your benefits and offer practical strategies you can use to protect your health. In this issue, we provide important information about a health crisis that is affecting the lives of millions of people in the U.S.: opioid abuse. We detail the dangers posed by painkiller addiction, and our Chief Medical Officer, Dr.Van H. Dunn, outlines the steps your Benefit Fund is taking to help you reduce the risk of becoming addicted in the first place, as well as to help those who may be struggling.

In every issue of For Your Benefit, we update you on changes to your benefits and offer practical strategies you can use to protect your health. In this issue, we provide important information about a health crisis that is affecting the lives of millions of people in the U.S.: opioid abuse.

We also remind you of the resources your Fund provides to keep you healthy. Whether you are having difficulty living with Type 2 diabetes or have learned to manage it, we urge you to think about participating in our Diabetes Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Program. The program pairs members who are having a hard time managing their diabetes with fellow 1199ers whose condition is under control and who have been trained to help others improve their health and avoid complications. We know how committed you are to helping the people you care for, but too often that means self-care comes second.You will read about how 1199SEIU member Joe Mendolia faced that challenge. As a Clinician and Substance Abuse Counselor at Mount Sinai Beth Israel in East Harlem, Joe saw the toll the opioid epidemic was taking on his patients. To cope with the stress of the pain he witnessed daily, he turned to food and gained an unhealthy amount of weight. But with help from his healthcare provider, Joe changed his eating and fitness habits, and has lost nearly 20 pounds. If you are a parent, you know how important it is to be able to provide enriching learning experiences for your children—and have peace of mind while you’re working—so we remind you to take advantage of the scholarship benefit and camp programs your Child Care Fund offers. If you are looking to advance your career or stay current in your profession, your Training and Employment Funds can provide help, with information on training classes and other resources. And with tax season just around the corner, we also remind you of our free Tax Preparation Assistance Program, which can help you file for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), if you are eligible, and help you get the most out of your tax refund. As always, we hope you enjoy this issue of For Your Benefit and wish you a Happy New Year! Sincerely,

Mitra Behroozi Executive Director 1199SEIU Benefit and Pension Funds

This issue of For Your Benefit

example, the elimination of lifetime limits on benefits. The Wage Class III plan is not a grandfathered health plan. Questions regarding which protections apply and which protections do not apply to a grandfathered healthreform.This website has a table summarizing which protections do and do not apply to grandfathered health plans.

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Benefits Update & News

A Message from Dr. Van H. Dunn, Chief Medical Officer As you are probably aware, opioid addiction has become a national health crisis. If you or a loved one is struggling with pain or addiction, we are here to help. Together with your healthcare provider, we will work with you to get you the pain management care you need without developing a potentially lethal dependence on powerful narcotic prescriptions. If you believe you’re having difficulties with prescription pain medication, please call our Wellness Member Assistance Program at (646) 473-6900, and a trained healthcare professional will talk with you and recommend available treatment options. There is no need to worry about your privacy; all conversations will be kept strictly confidential. Moreover, we are working with our pharmacy benefit manager, Express Scripts, and our network of participating providers to deliver quality care with limited exposure to treatments and drugs that carry the risk of addiction. The program adheres to New York State law, limiting the prescription of opioids in the initial treatment of acute pain to a 7-day supply. This program does not apply to members who are being treated for cancer or receiving palliative care and end-of-life care. For more information, read about our member safety program in “Important Changes to Prescription Pain Medication Policy,” below. To learn more about how you can protect yourself, read “Addiction to Painkillers Is Common: What You Need to Know,” on page 10.

Important Changes to Prescription Pain Medication Policy As the dangers associated with the use of prescription painkillers reach epidemic levels nationally, the 1199SEIU Benefit Funds are working hard to protect you and your family. As of October 1, 2017, we have joined with Express Scripts in a member safety program focused on pain management while lowering the threat of opioid addiction, which can often be fatal. The Express Scripts Advanced Opioid Management program follows New York State law, which limits first-time prescriptions of opioids for people dealing with severe pain to a 7-day supply. The program does not affect patients who receive pain management therapy due to cancer care or hospice care (palliative care and end-of-life care). If you have any questions about how this program may affect you, please call an Express Scripts pharmacist at (855) 621-9206, or call the Express Scripts Prior Authorization Department at (800) 753-2851.You can also call the 1199SEIU Benefit Funds’ Member Services Department at (646) 473-9200.

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Get Help Managing Your Diabetes with Our Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Program under control? If so, your Benefit Fund can connect you with a fellow 1199SEIU member who is successfully managing his or her condition through our Diabetes Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Program, administered by InquisitHealth. While program will give you additional support from through and can help you set and achieve goals coaching from your mentor by phone, text message reminders and check-ins, video-based educational materials sent to your smartphone and personalized healthy-eating tips from a professional nutritionist. 2 diabetes, you can help another 1199SEIU member by becoming a peer mentor. For more information about joining the program as either a mentor or mentee, please call (212) 661-9383. The Diabetes Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Program is offered in partnership with InquisitHealth. This program is not intended to provide medical advice. Your interactions in the program may be tracked and recorded for continued quality improvement, ongoing training and safety purposes.


Feeling Sick and Can’t Reach Your Doctor? Call Teladoc for Care Anytime, Anywhere! If you or a family member is feeling sick or in pain and your own doctor is unavailable, you can get the care you need from the comfort of your home 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, through Teladoc, a telehealth and video conferencing service. Why drag yourself to an urgent care center or wait hours in an emergency room when quality care is just a phone call or click away? You can call Teladoc to:

Set Up Your Account Now

phone or video, any time of the day or night

1. Visit www.Teladoc.com and click “

2. Once you log in, click on the “My Medical History” tab.

Of course, Teladoc should not be used for emergency medical want to schedule a follow-up appointment with your own doctor on the next available date.

Learn More About Teladoc www.Teladoc.com/mobile

www.Teladoc.com

www.Facebook.com/Teladoc

(800) Teladoc (835-2362)

FOR YOUR BENEFIT

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Make Sure Your Refund Is All It Can Be with Free Tax Preparation Assistance As long as your 2017 household income was below $54,000 (or $30,000 if you are single and have no dependents), our partners at the Food Bank For New York City and Ariva—a nonprofit educational program—are offering free tax preparation events at sites throughout the five boroughs. The Food Bank For New York City also offers the Virtual Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (Virtual VITA) program for convenient electronic filing (e-filing) at various locations.You are eligible to use Virtual VITA if your 2017 household income was $54,000 or less, whether you have dependents or not. In addition, they will offer Self Prep, a quick, easy and secure online self-preparation option that you can use from the comfort of your home. It comes with step-by-step instructions and phone assistance. In the coming months, we will post more information on our website at www.1199SEIUBenefits.org, or you can call Member Services at (646) 473-9200. Even if you don’t live near a Food Bank For New York City or Ariva site, be sure to check the “Claim Your EITC” guide below to find out whether you qualify for the credit before filing your return.

Find Out If You’re Eligible for SNAP

Claim Your EITC You can check whether you meet the income requirements for the EITC by using the 2017 tax guidelines listed here:

three or more dependent children

At the Food Bank, you can also be pre-screened to see if you are eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The program helps more than two million New Yorkers buy healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, breads, and meat and dairy products, through a debit card that can be used like cash.You may earn up to $60,000 a year and still qualify for SNAP, even if you own a home or car, have money in the bank or live with others. For more information, visit http://www.NY.gov/services/apply-snap.

How Much Could You Receive From SNAP?*

dependent children

dependent child

dependent children

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*The actual amount of monthly assistance you can receive will vary based on individual financial circumstances.You may be eligible for more assistance for each additional family member, depending on your income.


NATIONAL BENEFIT FUND MEMBERS:

Paid Family Leave Benefit Begins January 1, 2018 Beginning January 1, 2018, the National Benefit Fund will administer New York State’s new Paid Family Leave (PFL) benefit, at no cost to members. This benefit will provide all eligible full- and part-time members with a partial wage replacement when they need time off to take care of family members with serious health conditions, to care for a newborn or newly adopted or placed child, or to deal with issues arising when a family member is called to active military service. For calendar year 2018, eligible members can receive up to eight weeks of leave at 50 percent of their average weekly wage (capped at 50 percent of the New York State Average Weekly Wage). To apply for the benefit, a National Benefit Fund member needs to complete a Paid Family Leave Benefit form (available on our website at www.1199SEIUBenefits.org) and submit required documentation to his or her employer, who will then complete and submit the member’s request to the Fund. If you have questions about your eligibility or accessing the benefit, please call our Member Services Department at (646) 473-9200. (Greater New York Benefit Fund members will receive their New York State PFL benefit through their employer.)

GREATER NEW YORK BENEFIT FUND MEMBERS:

Open Enrollment for Spouses Begins January 1 The open enrollment period for you to sign up your spouse for the Greater New York Benefit Fund health plan runs from January 1 through January 31, for coverage beginning March 1, 2018. To enroll your spouse, you must complete a Spouse Coverage and Payroll Deduction Authorization Form authorizing your employer to deduct the weekly premium from your paycheck. This form must be submitted to your employer before February 1.You can find the enrollment form at www.1199SEIUBenefits.org. If you’ve already enrolled your spouse, you don’t have to do anything. Of course, you and your dependent children up to age 26 are still eligible for coverage, with no premium, whether or not your spouse is enrolled. If you have any questions, please call Member Services at (646) 473-9200, and a representative will be happy to help you.

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Member Profile

Joe Mendolia An unflattering photo spurred Joe Mendolia to commit to losing weight and getting fit. With the help of his health coverage and some lifestyle changes, he’s lost nearly 20 pounds and improved his overall health. As a Clinician and Substance Abuse Counselor at Mount Sinai Beth Israel in East Harlem, Joe Mendolia has seen more than his share of suffering. Of course, he has also seen many success stories, too. “The greatest reward from my job is seeing members overcome the scourge of addiction,” Joe said. “It’s both humbling and rewarding to be a part of that treatment, and to see a life saved rather than lost.” An 1199SEIU member for three years, Joe works on the frontlines of the battle against opioid addiction— now a nationwide health epidemic—and in the course of his work, it became easy for him to find his own comfort in food, he said. “I used to eat donuts, hamburgers, pastas loaded with sauce and large quantities of ice cream,” Joe explained. “In the end, I was 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighed 201 pounds.” That was last April. But when he saw a picture of himself with a pint of ice cream in one hand and a spoon in the other, he realized he needed to make some changes. Joe knew he had a family history of high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and when he visited his doctor, he learned that his own levels were elevated. So he changed his diet—eating smaller portions of healthier foods, mainly lots of salad, chicken, fish, fruit and low-fat yogurt—and began working out at a gym near his home in Queens three to four times a week. And his healthy new lifestyle is paying off. He has lost 18 pounds, now wears size 34 pants and has lowered both his blood pressure and cholesterol levels. “Without my healthcare benefits, I wouldn’t be able to afford that trip to the doctor’s office,” Joe said, “and I would have probably been satisfied with where I’m at. He reminded me there’s still work to do.” At 58, Joe said he feels better than he ever has—and he wants to hold onto that feeling—so he sticks to his diet and exercise regimen and walks more than he has in years. He’s even worked up to slow jogging

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on the treadmill for as long as an hour at a time. “The changes I’ve made have become my normal habits now,” he said, “giving me a boost and a better outlook every day.” While it hasn’t been easy, his progress keeps him going. “This has been the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” Joe said, “but it’s been worth every ounce of sweat and more. I want people to know that change is possible and that their Benefit Fund, their Union and their employer are all here to help.”


Do you have a healthy story to share?

“This has been the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but it’s been worth every ounce of sweat and more. I want people to know that change is possible and that their Benefit Fund, their Union and their employer are all here to help.”

We’re always looking for the opportunity to spotlight members who are protecting their bringing a chronic condition under control

to hear from you! To share your story with your fellow members in an upcoming issue of at Communications@1199Funds.org

FOR YOUR BENEFIT

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Healthy Living

Addiction to Painkillers Is Common:

What You Need to Know More and more patients are being prescribed long-term prescriptions for powerful painkillers called opioids, such as oxycodone, codeine and morphine, for chronic and severe pain. From 1999 to 2014, the number of opioid prescriptions has quadrupled. This increase has led to a serious problem of addiction across the United States and poses a dangerous threat to healthcare workers, who often perform physical tasks and sometimes have to move patients or do heavy lifting, making them more likely to experience chronic pain. Opioid addiction can damage personal relationships, hurt finances and cause other serious health issues. Even more sobering is that more than 300,000 people have died from opioid overdoses since 2000, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That is why it’s so important to be careful if your doctor has prescribed opioids for you. With long-term use, their pain-relieving effects lessen and you need to take more of them to relieve the pain.Your body can easily become dependent on the drugs, causing withdrawal symptoms—which makes it difficult to stop taking them. Opioid painkillers should only be prescribed for palliative care for the terminally ill or on a short-term basis for pain relief after major surgery. It’s too easy to become dependent on opioids, and long-term use is dangerous to your health. For some patients, opioid dependence can begin to develop within a week of taking the drugs, even when taken as prescribed. Of course, the longer you take opioids, the greater your risk of developing an addiction.You may feel a compulsive need to use them for longer than prescribed or take more than the prescribed dose. Or when you try to stop taking them, you may experience withdrawal symptoms that can be mistaken for symptoms of a flu or other virus, like upset stomach, nausea, or body aches and pains.You may also lack your usual energy, have intense mood swings, and withdraw socially from family and friends.

Some other signs of opioid addiction include:

If you are suffering from chronic pain, ask your doctor what alternative treatments you could try. In addition to other over-the-counter and prescription pain relievers, there are alternative treatment options to discuss with your doctor, in combination with medications, such as physical and occupational therapy; stress management; relaxation techniques; massage; acupuncture; and chiropractic care. If you or someone in your family is struggling with opioid dependence, you don’t need to go it alone. You can get help. As with any illness, you should first speak with your healthcare provider.You can also talk to someone in your Benefit Fund’s Wellness Member Assistance Program, at (646) 473-6900, who can provide support and guidance, including finding referrals to inpatient and outpatient programs. All conversations are strictly confidential.

NEWS YOU CAN USE Exercise Can Help Fight Depression One more reason to get moving: Doing just one hour a week of exercise may lower your long-term risk for depression, according to a study in the American Journal of Psychiatry. Researchers found that those who did one hour of exercise a week, regardless of intensity level, were 44 percent less likely to develop depression over the course of a decade than those who never worked out. So find an exercise routine you enjoy—and be sure to stick with it!

Sources: National Institutes of Health; U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Mayo Clinic; Office of National Drug Control Policy; U.S. Food and Drug Administration; National Safety Council

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Financial Wellness

Now You Can Apply for Your Pension Benefit Online! As an 1199SEIU member, you have peace of mind knowing you can count on a defined benefit pension when you retire. And now, applying for your pension has gotten easier with our new online pension application process! If you’re ready to retire, just visit our website, www.1199SEIUBenefits.org, and log on to My Account (or create an account if you don’t have one) from the privacy and convenience of your home. From the “My Pension” tab, select “Apply for Pension” from the dropdown menu and follow the steps shown.You’ll be able to review and edit your personal information and work history, check out different pension and beneficiary options, upload all the documents you’ll need to get your pension, and more.You’ll also know right away if you’re missing any information or didn’t complete the application correctly. If you’re close to retirement, you can always get a pension estimate online too by visiting My Account. From the “My Pension” tab, choose “Request & Review Pension Estimate” from the dropdown menu. Then click on the “Request Pension Estimate” button, follow the steps shown and you’re finished! Also, be sure to check out our video series at www.1199SEIUBenefits.org, where a virtual pension counselor will walk you through the application process. Of course, if you have questions about the retirement process, call the Retiree Services Department at (646) 473-8666.

As an 1199SEIU member, you have peace of mind knowing you can count on a defined benefit pension when you retire. And now, applying for your pension has gotten easier with our new online pension application process!

FOR YOUR BENEFIT

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Membership Advantages

Our Prenatal Workshop Can Help

Ensure You Have a Healthy Pregnancy

Learn Healthy Habits at Our First 2018 Wellness Workshop What better time than the New Year to start making “Healthy Habits, Healthy Families” workshop*

on March 3, information about how to stay healthy during pregnancy and after your child is born, how to prepare for your due date and what to

develop fitness habits and lower your stress through healthy communications. Plus, a registered dietitian will demonstrate how to cook some quick and easy balanced

how to have a healthy pregnancy with fewer complications. Partners are welcome!

Every member who attends the workshop will receive the 1199SEIU Benefit Funds Resistance Band Yoga/Pilates Workout DVD and resistance band, along with a copy of the Our Health calendar. So join us on

What:

Prenatal workshop

When:

Saturday, March 3 10:00 am to 2:30 pm

Where:

330 West 42nd Street 33rd Floor (Penthouse)

To reserve your spot, please call (646) 473-8960, Option 2, Option 2. Validated parking for $13 will be available across 42nd Street at Impark, and child care will be provided for children age 3 and older. If you are unable to attend in person, please call us at (646) 473-8962, for information about attending the workshop online via your computer. *Provided by Worksite Medical Services, P.C. Workshop will be offered in English only.

chance to get moving in an all-ages aerobics class, so be

What: “ When:

” workshop

Workshop segments run from Where: To reserve your spot, please call (646) 473-8960, Option 2, Option 1. Validated parking for $13 will be available across 42nd Street at Impark, and child care will be provided for children age 3 and older.

*Provided by Worksite Medical Services, P.C. Workshop will be offered in English only.

Get Your Copy of the 2018 Protecting Our Health Calendar The Benefit Fund’s 2018 Protecting Our Health calendar features information on diet and nutrition, along with fitness and lifestyle tips to help you and your family make healthy, lasting changes.You’ll find monthly reminders about the Benefit Fund’s wellness workshops and other helpful resources. Copies of the calendar were mailed to members who attended worksite wellness fairs or other wellness workshops in 2017. You can get the calendar by attending any of our Wellness Department’s upcoming health fairs, wellness workshops or other events. If you’d like, you can even email us at Wellness@1199Funds.org, and we’ll mail you a calendar. We hope your 2018 calendar helps you set, track and achieve your health goals all year long!

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Your Training and Employment Benefits

Training and Upgrading Fund Prepares Members for Evolving Healthcare Field As the healthcare industry continues to undergo change, your 1199SEIU Training and Upgrading Fund (TUF) and 1199SEIU Greater New York Education Fund (GNYEF) offer counseling services to help you keep your skills sharp and achieve your professional goals. Through a series of workshops, our counseling staff will inform you about available education benefits so that you can make informed academic and career choices. Counselors are accessible at all TUF and GNYEF sites in the New York City metropolitan area, and can also be reached by calling our counseling hotline at (212) 284-9210. Workshops include the Career Planning Workshop, designed for those who are unsure of their course of study or would like to learn more about emerging healthcare positions and professions; the Tuition Assistance Workshop, which provides you with step-by-step instructions on how to apply for financial assistance; and the Upgrade Strategies Workshop (formerly the Graduate Outcomes Workshop), which helps you develop self-marketing techniques, prepare your resume, reexamine your career goals and create an action plan. For more information, please visit www.1199SEIUBenefits.org/funds-and-services/training-and-employment/.

FOR YOUR BENEFIT

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Your Child-care Benefits

1199SEIU/Employer

Child Care Corporation ANNE SHORE SLEEP-AWAY CAMP PROGRAM

Give Your Child an Unforgettable Experience! WHAT IS IT? The Anne Shore Camp Program offers:

WHY APPLY? Sleep-away camp is a great way for your child to learn:

WHO CAN APPLY? Your child may be eligible if:

Apply online at www.1199SEIUBenefits.org/anne-shore-camp For more information, please contact the 1199SEIU/Employer Child Care Corporation at (212) 564-2220 ext. 3460 or email AnneShoreCampProgram@1199Funds.org. 14

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Take Advantage of Your Child Care Funds Resources Your Child Care Funds are offering a number of parenting workshops in the coming months, including an SAT workshop in February; Special Needs Summer Camp Fairs in February and March; a Summer Youth Employment Programs workshop in March; What to Expect After Registration workshops in January and February; and a Knowing Your Child Care Funds Programs workshop in March. For details and registration information, visit our website, www.1199SEIUBenefits.org/childcare.

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Para Su Beneficio

CONTENIDOS

INVIERNO 2017–18

ACTUALIZACION Y NOTICIAS SOBRE BENEFICIOS 18 Mensaje del Dr. Van H. Dunn, Director Médico Ejecutivo Cambios Importantes en la Política de Medicamentos Recetados Contra el Dolor Obtenga Ayuda para Controlar su Diabetes con Nuestro Programa de Orientación entre Pares 19 ¿Se Siente Mal y No Puede Comunicarse con su Médico? ¡Llame a Teladoc para Recibir Atención en Cualquier Momento y en Cualquier Lugar! 20 Asegúrese de Obtener el Mayor Reembolso Posible con la Asistencia para la Preparación de la Declaración de Impuestos 21 Miembros del Fondo Nacional de Beneficios: El Beneficio de Licencia por Razones Familiares Pagada Comienza el 1 de enero de 2018 Miembros del Fondo de Beneficios del Gran Nueva York: El Período de Inscripción para Cónyuges Comienza el 1 de enero

PERFIL DEL MIEMBRO 22 Joe Mendolia Una fotografía poco favorecedora hizo que Joe Mendolia se comprometiera a perder peso y ponerse en forma. Con la ayuda de su cobertura de salud y algunos cambios en su estilo de vida, perdió cerca de 20 libras y mejoró su salud en general.

VIDA SALUDABLE 24 La Adicción a los Analgésicos es Común: Lo que Necesita Saber

BIENESTAR FINANCIERO 25 ¡Ahora Puede Solicitar su Beneficio de Pensión en Línea!

VENTAJAS DE LA MEMBRESIA 26 Nuestro Taller Prenatal Puede Ayudarle a Garantizar un Embarazo Saludable Aprenda los Hábitos Saludables en Nuestro Primer Taller de Bienestar de 2018 Obtenga una Copia del Calendario de Protección de Nuestra Salud de 2018

SUS BENEFICIOS DE CAPACITACIÓN Y EMPLEO 27 El Fondo de Capacitación y Actualización Prepara a los Miembros para el Campo de la Atención Médica Evolucionada

SUS BENEFICIOS DE CUIDADO INFANTIL 28 Programa de Campamento de Estadía Anne Shore: ¡Ofrézcale A Su Hijo una Experiencia Inolvidable! 29 Pida la Solicitud de Beca Joseph Tauber Aproveche los Recursos de los Fondos de Cuidado Infantil

Este número de Para Su Beneficio

de Trabajo de los EE. UU. llamando al (866) 444-3272 o en www.dol.gov/ebsa/healthreform. Este sitio web tiene un cuadro que resume las protecciones que se aplican y las que no a los planes de salud de derechos adquiridos.

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Mensaje de la Directora Ejecutiva Estimados miembros, En cada edición de Para Su Beneficio, lo mantenemos actualizado sobre los cambios en sus beneficios y le ofrecemos las estrategias prácticas que puede usar para proteger su salud. En esta edición, le brindamos información importante sobre una crisis de salud que afecta la vida de millones de personas en EE. UU.: el abuso de opiáceos. Describimos los peligros que representan la adicción a los analgésicos, y nuestro Director Médico Ejecutivo, el Dr.Van H. Dunn, detalla los pasos que su Fondo de Beneficios está llevando a cabo para, en primer lugar, ayudarlo a reducir el riesgo de volverse adicto y ayudar a aquellos que estén en la lucha.

En cada edición de

Para Su Beneficio, lo mantenemos actualizado sobre los cambios en sus beneficios y le ofrecemos las estrategias prácticas que puede usar para proteger su salud. En esta edición, le brindamos información importante sobre una crisis de salud que afecta la vida de

También le recordamos los recursos que brinda su Fondo para mantenerlo saludable. Independientemente de que tenga dificultades para vivir con diabetes tipo 2 o haya aprendido a controlarla, le recomendamos que considere participar en nuestro Programa de Orientación entre Pares para la diabetes. El programa conecta a miembros que tienen dificultades para controlar su diabetes con miembros de 1199 que mantienen su afección controlada y que fueron capacitados para ayudar a otras personas a mejorar su salud y evitar complicaciones. Estamos al tanto de su compromiso para ayudar a aquellos por los que vela, pero esto significa que con demasiada frecuencia el cuidado personal queda en segundo lugar. Leerá sobre cómo Joe Mendolia, miembro de 1199SEIU, enfrentó ese desafío. Como médico clínico y asesor en abuso de sustancias del Mount Sinai Beth Israel en East Harlem, Joe vio el estrago que la epidemia de opiáceos hacía en sus pacientes. Para hacer frente al estrés del dolor que observaba a diario, recurrió a la comida y alcanzó un peso poco saludable. Sin embargo, con la ayuda de su proveedor de salud, Joe cambió sus hábitos alimenticios y de acondicionamiento físico, y bajó casi 20 libras. Si usted es padre, sabrá la importancia de poder ofrecerles a sus hijos experiencias de aprendizaje enriquecedoras (y de disfrutar de la tranquilidad mientras trabajan), entonces le recordamos que aproveche los beneficios de becas y los programas de campamento que su Fondo de Cuidado Infantil ofrece. Si está pensando en avanzar con su carrera o en permanecer en su profesión actual, los Fondos de Capacitación y Empleo le pueden brindar ayuda, con información sobre clases de capacitación y otros recursos. Y con la temporada impositiva a la vuelta de la esquina, también le recordamos sobre nuestro Programa Gratuito de Asistencia para la Preparación de la Declaración de Impuestos, que puede ayudarlo a solicitar el Crédito Tributario por Ingresos del Trabajo (EITC, por sus siglas en inglés), si es elegible, y ayudarlo a aprovechar al máximo su reembolso de impuestos. Como siempre, esperamos que disfrute este número de Para Su Beneficio ¡y le deseamos un Feliz Año Nuevo! Atentamente,

millones de personas en EE. UU.: el abuso de opiáceos.

Mitra Behroozi Directora Ejecutiva Fondos de Beneficios y Pensiones de 1199SEIU

PARA SU BENEFICIO

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Actualización y Noticias sobre Beneficios

Mensaje del Dr. Van H. Dunn, Director Médico Ejecutivo Como probablemente ya lo sepa, la adicción a los opiáceos se ha vuelto una crisis de salud nacional. Si usted o un ser querido están luchando contra el dolor o la adicción, estamos aquí para ayudar. Junto con su proveedor de salud, trabajaremos con usted para que reciba la atención para el control del dolor que necesita sin desarrollar una dependencia potencialmente mortal a los potentes narcóticos recetados. Si considera que tiene dificultades con los medicamentos recetados para aliviar el dolor, llame al Programa de Bienestar y Asistencia a los Miembros al (646) 473-6900 y un profesional de la salud capacitado hablará con usted y le recomendará opciones de tratamiento disponibles. No hay necesidad de preocuparse por su privacidad; todas las conversaciones se mantendrán estrictamente confidenciales. Además, trabajamos con nuestro administrador de beneficios de farmacia, Express Scripts, y nuestra red de proveedores participantes para brindar atención de calidad con exposición limitada a tratamientos y medicamentos que tengan el riesgo de crear adicción. El programa cumple la ley del estado de Nueva York, limitando las recetas de opiáceos a un suministro de 7 días al inicio del tratamiento del dolor agudo. Este programa no rige para los miembros que reciben tratamiento por cáncer o cuidado paliativo y cuidado del final de la vida. Para obtener más información, lea sobre nuestro programa de seguridad para los miembros en “Cambios importantes en la política de medicamentos recetados contra el dolor”, a continuación. Para obtener más información sobre cómo protegerse, lea “La adicción a los analgésicos es común: Lo que necesita saber”, en la página 24.

Cambios Importantes en la Política de Medicamentos Recetados Contra el Dolor Como los peligros asociados con el uso de analgésicos recetados alcanzan niveles epidémicos en el ámbito nacional, los Fondos de Beneficios de 1199SEIU trabajan arduamente para protegerlo a usted y a su familia. El 1 de octubre de 2017, nos unimos a Express Scripts en un programa de seguridad para los miembros enfocado en el control del dolor disminuyendo la amenaza de adicción a los opiáceos, que puede ser mortal. El Programa de Control Avanzado de Opiáceos de Express Scripts cumple con la ley del estado de Nueva York, que limita las recetas nuevas de opiáceos para las personas que luchan con dolores agudos a un suministro de 7 días. El programa no afecta a los pacientes que reciben terapia para el control del dolor debido a la atención por cáncer o en un hospicio (cuidado paliativo y cuidado del final de la vida). Si tiene alguna pregunta sobre cómo lo puede afectar este programa, llame a un farmacéutico de Express Scripts al (855) 621-9206 o llame al Departamento de Autorizaciones Previas de Express Scripts al (800) 753-2851. También puede llamar al Departamento de Servicios para los Miembros del Fondo de Beneficios de 1199SEIU al (646) 473-9200.

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Obtenga Ayuda para Controlar su Diabetes con Nuestro Programa de Orientación entre Pares ¿Está luchando para controlar su diabetes tipo 2? Si es así, su Fondo de Beneficios lo puede conectar con un miembro de 1199SEIU que la diabetes, administrado por InquisitHealth. Si programa le brindará apoyo adicional de alguien que comprende lo que le pasa y puede ayudarlo a establecer y alcanzar metas para mejorar su salud. Obtendrá instrucciones personalizadas de su mentor por teléfono, recordatorios y controles por mensajes de texto, materiales educativos en formato de video enviados a su teléfono inteligente y saludable de un nutricionista profesional. Y si está controlando con éxito su diabetes tipo 2, usted puede ayudar a otro miembro de 1199SEIU convirtiéndose en un mentor de pares. Para obtener como mentor o alumno, llame al (212) 661-9383. de este programa no es brindar asesoramiento médico. Es posible que sus interacciones en el programa se graben y que se realice un seguimiento de ellas para mejorar por motivos de seguridad.


¡Llame a Teladoc para Recibir Atención en Cualquier Momento y en Cualquier Lugar! comodidad de su hogar durante las 24 horas, los 7 días de la semana, a través de Teladoc, un servicio de telesalud y videoconferencia. ¿Por

Puede llamar a Teladoc para lo siguiente:

Configure su Cuenta Ahora

por la junta por teléfono o video, en cualquier momento del día o de la noche.

1. Visit www.Teladoc.com y haga clic en “Set Up ” (Configurar la Cuenta). “My

síntomas, tales como dolores de espalda, esguinces y distensiones, gripe, erupciones y mucho más.

Medical History”

Por supuesto, Teladoc no debe usarse para situaciones médicas de que deberá programar una cita de seguimiento con su médico en la

Obtenga Más Información sobre Teladoc www.Teladoc.com/mobile

www.Teladoc.com

www.Facebook.com/Teladoc

(800) Teladoc (835-2362)

PARA SU BENEFICIO

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Asegúrese de Obtener el Mayor Reembolso Posible con la Asistencia para la Preparación de la Declaración de Impuestos Siempre que los ingresos de su hogar para 2017 hayan sido inferiores a $54,000 (o $30,000 si es soltero y no tiene dependientes a cargo), nuestros socios de Food Bank For New York City y Ariva, un programa educativo sin fines de lucro, ofrecen eventos gratuitos para la preparación de la declaración de impuestos en los cinco distritos. El Food Bank For New York City también ofrece el programa Voluntariado Virtual de Asistencia para la Preparación de la Declaración de Impuestos (VITA Virtual) en varios lugares para que pueda contar con la comodidad de hacer una presentación electrónica. Usted es elegible para usar VITA Virtual si los ingresos de su hogar en 2017 fueron $54,000 o menos, tanto si tiene dependientes como si no. Además, ofrecerán Self Prep, una opción de preparación por cuenta propia en línea, rápida, fácil y segura que usted puede usar desde la comodidad de su hogar. Incluye instrucciones paso a paso y asistencia telefónica. En los próximos meses, publicaremos más información en nuestro sitio web en www.1199SEIUBenefits.org, o puede llamar a Servicios para los Miembros al (646) 473-9200. Incluso si no vive cerca de una sede de Food Bank For New York City o Ariva, asegúrese de leer la guía “Solicite su EITC” para saber si califica para el crédito antes de presentar su declaración.

Averigüe si es Elegible para SNAP

Solicite su EITC ingresos para solicitar el EITC utilizando las pautas de impuestos de 2017 que se indican a continuación: si está casado/a y presenta una

En el Food Bank For New York City, puede realizar una preevaluación para saber si es elegible para el Programa de Asistencia de Nutrición Suplementaria (SNAP, por sus siglas en inglés). El programa ayuda a más de dos millones de habitantes de Nueva York a comprar alimentos saludables, como frutas, verduras, pan, carne y productos lácteos a través de una tarjeta de débito que se puede utilizar como dinero en efectivo. Usted puede ganar hasta $60,000 por año y aun así calificar para SNAP, incluso si posee su propio hogar o vehículo, tiene dinero en el banco o vive con otras personas. Para obtener más información, visite http://www.NY.gov/services/apply-snap.

¿Cuánto Puede Recibir de SNAP?*

está casado/a y presenta una declaración

está casado/a y presenta una declaración

está casado/a y presenta una declaración

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*El monto real de la asistencia mensual que usted puede recibir variará según las circunstancias financieras individuales. Usted puede ser elegible para recibir más asistencia por cada miembro adicional de la familia, según su ingreso.


MIEMBROS DEL FONDO NACIONAL DE BENEFICIOS:

El Beneficio de Licencia por Razones Familiares Pagada Comienza el 1 de enero de 2018 A partir del 1 de enero de 2018, el Fondo Nacional de Beneficios (NBF, por sus siglas en inglés) administrará el nuevo beneficio de Licencia por razones familiares pagada (PFL, por sus siglas en inglés) del estado de Nueva York, sin costo alguno para los miembros. Este beneficio les brindará a todos los miembros de tiempo parcial y de tiempo completo elegibles un reemplazo de sueldo parcial cuando necesiten tiempo libre para cuidar a miembros de su familia con afecciones de salud graves, cuidar a un recién nacido o a un niño recientemente adoptado o colocado en guarda, o hacer frente a los problemas que pueden surgir cuando un miembro de la familia es convocado a prestar servicio militar activo. Para el año calendario 2018, los miembros elegibles podrán recibir hasta ocho semanas de licencia al 50 % de su salario semanal promedio (se limita al 50 % del salario semanal promedio del estado de Nueva York). Para solicitar el beneficio, el miembro del NBF debe completar el Formulario de beneficio de Licencia por razones familiares pagada (disponible en nuestro sitio web en www.1199SEIUBenefits.org) y enviar la documentación necesaria a su empleador, que luego completará y enviará la solicitud del miembro al Fondo. Si tiene alguna pregunta sobre su elegibilidad o sobre cómo acceder al beneficio, llame al Departamento de Servicios para los Miembros al (646) 473-9200. (Los miembros del Fondo de Beneficios del Gran Nueva York recibirán su beneficio de PFL del estado de Nueva York a través de su empleador).

MIEMBROS DEL FONDO DE BENEFICIOS DEL GRAN NUEVA YORK:

El Período de Inscripción para Cónyuges Comienza el 1 de enero El período de inscripción abierta para que pueda inscribir a su cónyuge en el plan de salud del Fondo de Beneficios del Gran Nueva York es desde el 1 de enero hasta el 31 de enero, para que la cobertura comience el 1 de marzo de 2018. Para inscribir a su cónyuge, debe llenar un Formulario de autorización para deducción por nómina y cobertura de cónyuge, autorizando a su empleador a deducir la prima semanal de su cheque de pago. Debe enviar este formulario a su empleador antes del 1 de febrero. Puede encontrar el formulario de inscripción en www.1199SEIUBenefits.org. Si ya ha inscrito a su cónyuge, no tiene que hacer nada más. Por supuesto, usted y sus hijos dependientes de hasta 26 años todavía son elegibles para la cobertura, sin prima, independientemente de que su cónyuge esté inscrito o no. Si tiene preguntas, llame a Servicios para los Miembros al (646) 473-9200 y un representante estará encantado de ayudarlo.

PARA SU BENEFICIO

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Perfil del Miembro

Joe Mendolia Una fotografía poco favorecedora hizo que Joe Mendolia se comprometiera a perder peso y ponerse en forma. Con la ayuda de su cobertura de salud y algunos cambios en su estilo de vida, perdió cerca de 20 libras y mejoró su salud en general. Como médico clínico y asesor en abuso de sustancias del Mount Sinai Beth Israel en East Harlem, Joe Mendolia ha visto más sufrimiento del necesario. Por supuesto, también ha visto muchas historias de éxito. “La mayor recompensa de mi trabajo es ver a los miembros superar el flagelo de la adicción”, dijo Joe. “Es gratificante ser parte de ese tratamiento y ver una vida salvada en lugar de perdida”. Como miembro de 1199SEIU durante tres años, Joe trabaja en la primera línea de la batalla contra la adicción a los opiáceos, ya convertida en una epidemia de salud nacional, y según dijo, en el curso de su trabajo, se volvió fácil para él encontrar consuelo en la comida. “Solía comer donas, hamburguesas, pastas con mucha salsa y grandes cantidades de helado”, explicó Joe. “Al final, medía 5 pies y 6 pulgadas, y pesaba 201 libras”. Eso fue el pasado abril. Pero cuando vio una fotografía de sí mismo con un pote de helado en una mano y una cuchara en la otra, se dio cuenta de que necesitaba hacer algunos cambios. Joe sabía que tenía antecedentes familiares de presión arterial alta y colesterol alto, y cuando consultó a su médico, supo que sus propios niveles eran elevados. Así que cambió su dieta, comenzó a comer porciones más pequeñas de alimentos más saludables, principalmente mucha ensalada, pollo, pescado, fruta y yogur con bajo contenido de grasas, y empezó a ejercitarse en un gimnasio cerca de su casa en Queens de tres a cuatro veces por semana.Y su nuevo estilo de vida saludable está dando resultados. Ha perdido 18 libras, ahora usa pantalones talla 34 y ha disminuido sus niveles tanto de presión arterial como de colesterol. “Sin mis beneficios de atención médica, no podría afrontar el viaje al consultorio del médico”, dijo Joe, “y probablemente estaría satisfecho con dónde me encontraba. Me recordó que aún queda trabajo por hacer”. Con 58 años, Joe dijo que se siente mejor que nunca (y quiere aferrarse a ese sentimiento), por lo que sigue con su dieta y régimen de ejercicio, y camina más de lo que lo hizo en años. Incluso ha

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comenzado a trotar lentamente en la cinta durante una hora seguida. “Los cambios que he hecho se han convertido en mis hábitos normales”, dijo, “y me dan un impulso y una mejor perspectiva todos los días”. Si bien no ha sido sencillo, su progreso lo mantiene en movimiento. “Esto ha sido lo más difícil que he hecho”, dijo Joe, “pero ha valido cada gota de sudor y más. Quiero que las personas sepan que es posible cambiar y que su Fondo de Beneficios, su sindicato y su empleador están todos aquí para ayudar”.


¿Tiene una historia saludable que compartir?

“Esto ha sido lo más difícil que he hecho, pero ha valido cada gota de sudor y más. Quiero que las personas sepan que es posible cambiar y que su Fondo de Beneficios, su sindicato y su empleador están todos aquí para ayudar”.

Siempre estamos buscando la oportunidad de destacar a los miembros que protegen

noticias suyas! Para compartir su historia futuro de en: Communications@1199Funds.org

PARA SU BENEFICIO

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Vida Saludable

La Adicción a los Analgésicos es Común:

Lo que Necesita Saber Cada vez más pacientes reciben recetas a largo plazo para analgésicos potentes llamados opiáceos, como oxicodona, codeína y morfina, con el fin de combatir el dolor agudo y crónico. De 1999 a 2014, la cantidad de opiáceos recetados se ha cuadruplicado. Este aumento ha ocasionado serios problemas de adicción en los Estados Unidos y representa una peligrosa amenaza para los trabajadores de la salud, que a menudo realizan tareas físicas y en ocasiones deben mover pacientes o levantar objetos pesados, lo que aumenta la probabilidad de que experimenten dolor crónico. La adicción a los opiáceos puede perjudicar tanto las relaciones personales como las finanzas, y causar otros problemas graves de salud. Lo que resulta más grave aún es que más de 300,000 personas han muerto por sobredosis de opiáceos desde el año 2000, según los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades de EE. UU. Por eso es que resulta tan importante ser cuidadoso si su médico le ha recetado opiáceos. Con el uso a largo plazo, los efectos paliativos disminuyen y necesita aumentar la dosis para aliviar el dolor. Su cuerpo puede volverse fácilmente dependiente de las drogas, causando síntomas de abstinencia, lo que hace que sea difícil dejar de tomarlos. Los analgésicos con opiáceos solo deben recetarse para cuidados paliativos en caso de enfermedades terminales o a corto plazo para aliviar el dolor después de una cirugía importante. Es muy fácil volverse dependiente de los opiáceos, y el uso a largo plazo es peligroso para la salud. Para algunos pacientes, la dependencia de los opiáceos puede comenzar a desarrollarse dentro de la semana comenzar a tomar el medicamento, incluso cuando se toma según lo indicado. Por supuesto, cuanto más tiempo tome opiáceos, mayor es el riesgo de desarrollar una adicción. Puede sentir una necesidad compulsiva de tomarlos durante un período mayor que el indicado o tomar una dosis mayor que la recetada. O cuando intenta dejar de tomarlos, puede experimentar síntomas de abstinencia que se pueden confundir con síntomas de gripe u otro virus, como malestar estomacal, náuseas, o dolores y malestares corporales.También puede perder la energía habitual, tener intensos altibajos emocionales y aislarse

socialmente de familiares y amigos. Algunos otros síntomas de la adicción a los opiáceos incluyen:

Si sufre de dolor crónico, consulte a su médico sobre los tratamientos alternativos que podría probar. Además de otros analgésicos recetados y de venta libre, existen opciones alternativas de tratamiento que puede analizar con su médico en combinación con los medicamentos, como terapia ocupacional y física, control del estrés, técnicas de relajación, masajes, acupuntura y atención quiropráctica. Si usted o alguien de su familia está luchando contra la dependencia de opiáceos, no necesita hacerlo solo. Puede obtener ayuda. Como con cualquier enfermedad, primero debe hablar con su proveedor de salud. También puede hablar con alguien del Programa de Bienestar y Asistencia a los Miembros del Fondo de Beneficios al (646) 473-6900, que le puede brindar ayuda y orientación, incluso remitirlo a programas para pacientes internos o ambulatorios. Todas las conversaciones son estrictamente confidenciales.

NOVEDADES QUE PUEDE UTILIZAR

El Ejercicio Puede Ayudar a Combatir la Depresión Un motivo más para moverse: hacer solo una hora de ejercicio por semana puede reducir el riesgo de sufrir de depresión a largo plazo, según un estudio de American Journal of Psychiatry. Los investigadores descubrieron que aquellas personas que realizaban una hora de ejercicio a la semana, independientemente del nivel de intensidad, tenían un 44 % menos de probabilidad de desarrollar con las que nunca ejercitaban. Así que encuentre una rutina de ejercicio que disfrute y ¡asegúrese de seguirla!

Fuentes: Institutos Nacionales de Salud; Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades de EE. UU.; Clínica Mayo; Oficina de Política Nacional para el Control de Drogas; Administración de Alimentos y Medicamentos de EE. UU.; Consejo de Seguridad Nacional

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Bienestar Financiero

¡Ahora Puede Solicitar su Beneficio de Pensión en Línea! Como miembro de 1199SEIU, tiene la tranquilidad de saber que puede contar con un beneficio de pensión definido cuando se jubile.Y ahora, solicitar su pensión es más fácil con nuestro nuevo proceso de solicitud de pensiones en línea. Si está listo para jubilarse, solo visite nuestro sitio web www.1199SEIUBenefits.org e inicie sesión en “My Account” (Mi cuenta), o cree una cuenta si no tiene una, desde la privacidad y conveniencia de su hogar. En la pestaña “My Pension” (Mi pensión), seleccione “Apply Pension” (Solicitar pensión) en el menú desplegable y siga los pasos que se muestran. Podrá revisar y editar su información personal e historial laboral, controlar las diferentes opciones de pensiones y beneficiario, cargar todos los documentos que necesita para obtener la pensión y más. También sabrá de inmediato si falta información o no completó la solicitud correctamente. Si está por jubilarse, también puede obtener un cálculo en línea de su pensión en “My Account” (Mi cuenta). En la pestaña “My Pension” (Mi pensión), seleccione “Request & Review Pension Estimate” (Solicitar y revisar cálculo de pensión) en el menú desplegable. A continuación, haga clic en el botón “Request Pension Estimate” (Solicitar cálculo de pensión), siga los pasos indicados y habrá terminado. También asegúrese de ver nuestra serie de videos en www.1199SEIUBenefits.org, donde un asesor de pensiones virtual lo guiará en el proceso de solicitud. Por supuesto, si tiene preguntas sobre el proceso de jubilación, llame al Departamento de Servicios para jubilados al (646) 473-8666.

Como miembro de 1199SEIU, tiene la tranquilidad de saber que puede contar con un beneficio de pensión definido cuando se jubile. Y ahora, solicitar su pensión es más fácil con nuestro nuevo proceso de solicitud de pensiones en línea.

PARA SU BENEFICIO

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Ventajas de la Membresía

a Garantizar un Embarazo Saludable El , únase a otros futuros padres en nuestro siguiente Taller Prenatal del Departamento de Bienestar*, donde recibirá

saludable durante el embarazo y después de fecha de parto y qué puede esperar durante la labor de parto y el alumbramiento. Tanto si es su primer hijo como si es el tercero, también con menos complicaciones. Qué:

Taller Prenatal

Cuándo: Sábado, 3 de marzo De 10:00 am a 2:30 pm Dónde:

330 West 42nd Street Penthouse (Piso 33)

Para reservar su lugar, llame al (646) 473-8960, estacionamiento validado por $13 al otro lado de 42nd Street en Impark y se proporcionará servicio de guardería para

Aprenda los Hábitos Saludables en Nuestro Primer Taller de Bienestar de 2018 a hacer cambios positivos en su estilo de vida? Únase a nuestro taller “Hábitos Saludables, Familias Saludables” del Departamento de Bienestar, el sábado 27 de enero, para aprender qué puede hacer para desarrollar hábitos de acondicionamiento físico y reducir el estrés a través registrado demostrará como cocinar algunas comidas rápidas, fáciles y equilibradas para que disfrute toda la familia. También tendrá la oportunidad de moverse en

Todos los miembros que participen del taller recibirán el DVD Ejercicios de yoga/pilates con banda elástica de resistencia del Fondo de Beneficios de 1199SEIU. También se les entregará una banda elástica de resistencia y una Nuestra Salud de 2018 del Fondo. ¡Únase a nosotros el 27 de enero y Qué: Taller “Hábitos Saludables, Familias Saludables” Cuándo: Los segmentos de los taller se realizan Dónde: 330 West 42nd Street, Piso 33 (Penthouse)

en persona, llámenos al (646) 473-8962 para en línea por medio de su computadora. *Proporcionado por Worksite Medical Services, P.C. El taller se ofrecerá solamente en inglés.

Encontrará disponible un estacionamiento validado por $13 al otro lado de 42nd Street en Impark y se proporcionará *Proporcionado por Worksite Medical Services, P.C. El taller se ofrecerá solamente en inglés.

Obtenga una Copia del Calendario de Protección de Nuestra Salud de 2018 El Calendario de Protección de Nuestra Salud de 2018 del Fondo incluye información sobre dietas y nutrición, junto con consejos sobre acondicionamiento físico y estilo de vida para ayudarlos a usted y a su familia a realizar cambios saludables y duraderos. Encontrará recordatorios mensuales sobre los talleres de bienestar del Fondo de Beneficios y otros recursos útiles. Las copias del calendario fueron enviadas a los miembros que asistieron a las ferias de bienestar en el lugar de trabajo o a otros talleres de bienestar durante 2017. Puede obtener el calendario asistiendo a cualquiera de las próximas ferias de salud, talleres de bienestar u otros eventos del Departamento de Bienestar. Si lo desea, puede enviarnos un correo electrónico a Wellness@1199Funds.org y le enviaremos un calendario por correo. Esperamos que su calendario de 2018 lo ayude a establecer, seguir y alcanzar sus objetivos de salud durante todo el año.

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www.1199SEIUBenefits.org


Sus Beneficios de Capacitación y Empleo

El Fondo de Capacitación y Actualización Prepara a los Miembros para el Campo de la Atención Médica Evolucionada A medida que la industria de la atención médica experimenta cambios, el Fondo de Capacitación y Actualización (TUF, por sus siglas en inglés) de 1199SEIU y el Fondo de Educación de 1199SEIU del Gran Nueva York (GNYEF, por sus siglas en inglés) ofrecen servicios de asesoramiento para ayudarlo a mantener sus conocimientos actualizados y alcanzar sus objetivos personales. A medida que la industria de la atención médica experimenta cambios, el Fondo de Capacitación y Actualización (TUF) de 1199SEIU y el Fondo de Educación de 1199SEIU del Gran Nueva York (GNYEF) ofrecen servicios de asesoramiento para ayudarlo a mantener sus conocimientos actualizados y alcanzar sus objetivos personales. A través de una serie de talleres, nuestro personal de asesoramiento le informará sobre los campos de educación disponibles para que pueda tomar decisiones académicas y profesionales informadas. Los asesores están disponibles en los sitios de TUF y GNYEF en el área metropolitana de la ciudad de Nueva York, y también los puede contactar llamando a nuestra línea directa de asesoramiento al (212) 284-9210. Los talleres incluyen el Taller de Planificación Profesional, diseñado para aquellos que no están seguros sobre su plan de estudio o que les gustaría aprender más sobre las profesiones y los puestos de salud emergentes, el Taller sobre Asistencia en Matrículas, que le brinda instrucciones paso a paso sobre cómo solicitar asistencia financiera, y el Taller de Estrategias de Actualización (antes Taller de Salida Profesional de Graduados), que lo ayuda a desarrollar técnicas personales de marketing, preparar su currículum vitae, reexaminar sus objetivos profesionales y crear un plan de acción. Para obtener más información, visite www.1199SEIUBenefits.org/funds-and-services/ training-and-employment/.

PARA SU BENEFICIO

27


Sus Beneficios de Cuidado Infantil

1199SEIU/Employer

Child Care Corporation

PROGRAMA DE CAMPAMENTO DE ESTADÍA ANNE SHORE

¡Ofrézcale a Su Hijo una Experiencia Inolvidable! ¿QUÉ ES?

¿POR QUÉ SOLICITARLO?

¿QUIÉN PUEDE SOLICITARLO? Su hijo puede ser elegible si:

Presente la solicitud en línea en www.1199SEIUBenefits.org/anne-shore-camp Para obtener más información, comuníquese con 1199SEIU/Employer Child Care Corporation al (212) 564-2220 ext. 3460 o por correo electrónico a AnneShoreCampProgram@1199Funds.org. 28

www.1199SEIUBenefits.org


¿VA A ESTUDIAR EN LA UNIVERSIDAD DURANTE EL AÑO ACADÉMICO 2018-2019? PIDA LA SOLICITUD DE BECA JOSEPH TAUBER

para un mínimo de 12 créditos en cada semestre. becados anteriores que deseen seguir recibiendo apoyo de este tipo deben tener en cuenta que

Los

durante el Este formulario es una petición

si es elegible, en marzo recibirá un paquete de solicitud de beca. El paquete incluye varios formularios que debe completar y enviar según las instrucciones

FORMULARIO DE PETICIÓN DE SOLICITUD DEL PROGRAMA DE BECAS JOSEPH TAUBER PARA BECAS 2018-2019 Información del estudiante (escriba con letra de imprenta clara en tinta azul o negra)

❒ Sí

❒ No

Información del miembro (escriba con letra de imprenta clara en tinta azul o negra)

❒ Fondo Nacional de Beneficios (NBF) ❒

❒ Miembros del NBF del área de Rochester ❒ Fondo de Bienestar LPN

❒ para enviarle un paquete oficial de solicitud de la beca. Si no

Aproveche los Recursos de los Fondos de Cuidado Infantil en marzo. Para obtener detalles e información sobre la inscripción, visite nuestro sitio web www.1199SEIUBenefits.org/childcare.

PARA SU BENEFICIO

29


HIPAA NOTICE Benefit Fund Privacy Officer at 330 West 42nd Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10036.

SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT This is a summary of the annual report for the 1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for 2016, to December 31, 2016. This is a welfare benefit plan offering life insurance, health, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits. The annual report has been

Except those with respect to the benefits specified under “Insurance Information” below, the plan is self-insured and has committed to pay covered claims out of plan assets.

Plan expenses were $1,571,098,931. These expenses included $103,875,418 in administrative expenses, $1,458,129,370 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries, $518,709 in investment and advisor fees, and $8,575,434 in general expenses. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: insurance carriers;

Insurance Information accidental death and dismemberment claims incurred under the terms of the plan. The total premiums paid for the plan year ending December 31, 2016, were $7,439,721.

accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates; and

Because it is a so-called “experience-rated” contract, the premium costs are affected by, among other things, the number and size of claims. Of the total insurance premiums paid for the plan year ending December 31, 2016, the premiums paid under such “experience-rated” contracts were $8,810,095, and the total of all benefit claims paid under the experience-rated contract during the plan year was $6,631,142.

You also have the right to receive from the Fund, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the Fund, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report.

Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $497,967,668 During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $20,853,949. This change includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $1,550,244,982, including employer contributions of $1,522,079,108, net appreciation in fair value of investments of $11,090,454,

To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write to the Board of Trustees of the 1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health and Human Service Employees, PO Box 842, New York, NY 10108, or call Member Services, (646) 473-9200. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: 1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health and Human Service Employees, 330 West 42nd Street, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10036 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N-1515, Employee Benefits Washington, DC 20210.

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www.1199SEIUBenefits.org


SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT

This is a welfare benefit plan offering retraining, unemployment, continued health insurance, job security and job placement benefits. The annual report has been

Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $8,145,548 During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $554,811. This change includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $5,761,886, including employer contributions of $5,235,712 and other earnings of $526,174. Plan expenses were $6,316,697. These expenses included $2,226,728 in administrative expenses and $4,089,969 in benefits paid to participants.

Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report:

You also have the right to receive from the Fund, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the Fund, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write to the Board 10108, or call Member Services, (646) 473-9200. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: York, NY 10036, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room,

SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT This is a summary of the annual report for the 1199SEIU League Registered 2016, to December 31, 2016. This is a welfare benefit plan offering educational and training benefits to participating RNs. The annual report has been filed with

Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $2,087,776 During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $741,336. This change includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the

Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report:

You also have the right to receive from the Fund, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the Fund, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write to the Board of

assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $1,935,829, including employer contributions of $1,933,488 and other earnings of $2,341. Plan expenses were $2,677,165. These expenses included $781,234 in administrative expenses and $1,895,931 in benefits paid to participants.

PO Box 842, New York, NY 10108, or call Member Services, (646) 473-9200. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: 42nd Street, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10036, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to:

FOR YOUR BENEFIT

31


SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT This is a summary of the annual report for the 1199SEIU/Employer Child Care This is a welfare benefit plan offering child-care benefits. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Insurance Information The plan has (a) contract(s) with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company to pay certain child-care claims incurred under the terms of the plan. The total premiums paid for the plan year ending December 31, 2016, were $10,420. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $8,144,394 the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $1,523,675. This change includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of the plan the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $24,573,436, which included employer contributions of $23,764,146, program revenue of $772,581 and other earnings of $36,709. Plan expenses were $26,097,111. These expenses included $7,554,023 in administrative and indirect program expenses, and $18,543,088 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries.

Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report:

You also have the right to receive from the Fund, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the Fund, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write to the Board of Trustees of the 1199SEIU/Employer Child Care Fund, PO Box 842, New York, NY 10108, or call Member Services, (646) 473-9200. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: 1199SEIU/Employer Child Care Fund, 330 West 42nd Street, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10036, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room

SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT

This is a welfare benefit plan offering life insurance, health, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits. The annual report has been filed with the Employee

Except with respect to the benefits specified under “Insurance Information” below, the plan is self-insured and has committed to pay covered claims out of plan assets.

Plan expenses were $189,387,535. These expenses included $15,294,059 in administrative and general expenses, $174,005,467 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries, and $88,009 in investment and advisor fees. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report:

Insurance Information life insurance claims incurred under the terms of the plan. The total premiums paid for the plan year ending December 31, 2016, were $912,288.

accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates; and

Because it is a so-called “experience-rated” contract, the premium costs are affected by, among other things, the number and size of claims. Of the total insurance premiums paid for the plan year ending December 31, 2016, the premiums paid under such “experience-rated” contracts were $843,592, and the total of all benefit claims paid under the experience-rated contract during the plan year was $483,293.

You also have the right to receive from the Fund, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the Fund, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report.

Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $116,507,335 the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $8,522,073. This change includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $197,909,608, including employer contributions of $189,724,150, net appreciation member spousal contributions of $3,308,784 and other earnings of $1,256,464.

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www.1199SEIUBenefits.org

To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write to the Board of NY 10108, or call Member Services, (646) 473-9200. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: York, NY 10036, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room


SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT

31, 2016. This is a welfare benefit plan offering retraining, unemployment and continued health insurance benefits. The annual report has been filed with the

The plan is self-insured and has committed to pay covered claims out of plan assets. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $2,162,909 the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $962,553. This change includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of the plan the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $1,459,919, including employer contributions of $1,440,424, other income of $34 and interest income of $19,461. Plan expenses were $572,220. These expenses included $127,984 in administrative expenses and $444,236 in benefits paid to participants.

Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report:

You also have the right to receive from the Fund, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the Fund, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write to the Board of York, NY 10108, or call Member Services, (646) 473-9200. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: New York, NY 10036, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure

SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT

2016. This is a welfare benefit plan offering child-care benefits. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee The plan is self-insured and has committed to pay covered claims out of plan assets. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $1,214,844 the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $105,476. This change includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of the plan

Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report:

You also have the right to receive from the Fund, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the Fund, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write to the Board

the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $3,070,978, which included employer contributions of $3,008,167, program revenue of $62,571 and other earnings of $240.

York, NY 10108, or call Member Services, (646) 473-9200.

Plan expenses were $3,176,454. These expenses included $856,043 in administrative and indirect program expenses, and $2,320,411 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries.

New York, NY 10036, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure

You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan:

FOR YOUR BENEFIT

33


1199SEIU NATIONAL BENEFIT FUND FOR HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICE EMPLOYEES SUMMARY OF MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS This Summary of Material Modifications describes changes that affect your welfare benefit plan and updates the Summary Plan Description (“SPD”) that was

TEffective , the 1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health and Human Service Employees (“Benefit Fund”) SPD is hereby amended by adding the following new subsection in Section III: Paid Family Leave Benefits Benefit Fund Paid Family Leave Benefits (partial salary replacement)

YOUR PAID FAMILY LEAVE BENEFITS Eligible members are entitled to Paid Family Leave Benefits in full work day or work week increments as follows: Effective date

maximum of 8–12 weeks within a 52-week period you are receiving Benefit Fund Paid Family Leave Benefits Wage Class I: Member Only Wage Class II: Member Only Wage Class III: Member Only

Maximum Duration of Paid Family Leave

% of AWW or SAWW, whichever is less

8 weeks

50%

10 weeks

55%

10 weeks

65%

12 weeks

67%

your Paid Family Leaves and Disability Leaves can never exceed a combined total of 26 weeks within a 52-week period.

The Benefit Fund determines your entitlement for Paid Family Leave Benefits— the amount and duration of the benefit, and whether your need is a “Qualifying

IMPORTANT TAX NOTE

Leave Benefits Law (the “NYPFL Law”), as described below.

Paid Family Leave payments are considered taxable income. Taxes are not withheld

WHO IS COVERED Once you are enrolled in the Benefit Fund and have been employed by a Contributing Employer for at least 26 weeks, you may receive Paid Family Leave Benefits in certain circumstances when you are unable to work because of a Qualifying Event. Your spouse and children are not eligible for this benefit. WHEN YOUR BENEFITS BEGIN Paid Family Leave Benefits may be used when you are unable to work due to the following Qualifying Events: months of birth or placement. members include spouse, domestic partner, child, parent, parent in-law, grandparent and grandchild. Self-care is excluded. Serious health condition means an illness, injury, impairment, or physical or mental condition that involves: inpatient care in a hospital, hospice or residential healthcare facility; or continuing treatment or continuing supervision by a healthcare provider. forces is called to service. PLEASE NOTE: You cannot receive Paid Family Leave Benefits for partial work days or for any period in which you receive any other compensation, such as a pension (except for active members age 70 1/2 or older who are receiving a pension benefit),

34

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FILING YOUR PAID FAMILY LEAVE CLAIM

www.1199SEIUBenefits.org. You will also be required to submit supporting documentation from the government, from a licensed healthcare provider or as otherwise instructed by the Benefit Fund. The Benefit Fund will not be able to process your claim if you do not include all the information and documents required.


PROTECT YOUR HEALTH BENEFITS While you are receiving Benefit Fund Paid Family Leave Benefits, you and your family are still eligible for the same Benefit Fund coverage you had before your Qualifying Event. It is important that the Benefit Fund receive your Request for Paid Family Leave form and required documentation within 30 days of your Qualifying Event. Otherwise, you may jeopardize your Paid Family Leave Benefit as well as your Health Benefits. Here’s why: The Benefit Fund determines your eligibility for benefits based on then your coverage may be suspended because the Benefit Fund does not know that you are out on Paid Family Leave.

__________________________________________________________

This summary only highlights the key changes made to the 1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health and Human Service Employees. Summaries of material modifications together with the Summary Plan Description make up your official plan descriptions; please keep them together and refer to them as necessary. We have made every attempt to ensure the accuracy of the information in this summary and the Summary Plan Description. However, if there is any discrepancy between them and the Plan Document, insurance contracts or other legal documents, the legal documents will always govern. If you would like to review Services Representatives at (646) 473-9200.

WHEN YOU RETURN TO WORK

The Fund believes it is a “grandfathered health plan” under the Patient Protection

Call the Benefit Fund. You must let the Benefit Fund know when you go back to work after being on Disability Leave or Paid Family Leave. This way, the Benefit Fund can update its records and determine your eligibility for benefits.

can preserve certain basic health coverage that was already in effect when that law was enacted in 2010. Being a grandfathered health plan means that this

IF YOUR PAID FAMILY LEAVE CONTINUES If your Paid Family Leave continues beyond the maximum Paid Family Leave Benefit period, your coverage through the Benefit Fund will stop immediately. *** Effective , the Benefit Fund SPD is hereby amended by adding the following to the Section VII.B: APPEALING PAID FAMILY LEAVE CLAIMS To appeal a denial of your Request for Paid Family Leave Benefits, you must follow the directions that are on the back of the denial notice. If you do not have this

that apply to other plans, for example, the requirement for an external review process for claims appeals. However, grandfathered health plans must comply the elimination of lifetime limits on benefits. The Wage Class III plan is not a grandfathered health plan. Questions regarding which protections apply and which protections do not apply to a grandfathered health plan can be directed or www.dol.gov/ebsa/healthreform. This website has a table summarizing which protections do and do not apply to grandfathered health plans. The plan sponsor of the 1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health and Human Service Employees reserves the right to amend or terminate the 1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health and Human Service Employees, or any part of it, at any time.

FOR YOUR BENEFIT

35


1199SEIU Benefit and Pension Funds 330 West 42nd Street New York, NY 10036-6977 www.1199SEIUBenefits.org

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID New York, NY Permit No. 3700

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Important Benefit Notices Inside this Issue

Avisos Importantes sobre Beneficios en este Numero

Join Fellow Members on Our Facebook Pages Our 1199SEIU Benefit and Pension Funds’ Facebook page is helping thousands of members stay up to date on the latest benefit and pension news, health fairs, workshops, wellness news and more. If you’re not yet one of them, just visit www.Facebook.com/1199SEIUBenefitFunds and click on “Like.” We think you’ll be glad you did. And be sure to check out our Training and Employment and Child Care Funds’ pages.

Únase a los Compañeros Miembros en Nuestra Páginas de Facebook Nuestra página de Facebook de los Fondos de Beneficios y Pensiones de 1199SEIU ayuda a miles de miembros a mantenerse al tanto de las últimas novedades sobre beneficios y pensiones, ferias de salud, talleres, noticias sobre bienestar y mucho más. Si todavía no lo hizo, visite www.Facebook.com/1199SEIUBenefitFunds y haga clic en “Like” (“Me gusta”). Creemos que le será muy útil. Además, asegúrese de visitar nuestras páginas de Training and Employment (Empleo y Capacitación) y Child Care Funds (Fondos de Cuidado Infantil).


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