For Immediate Release: Monday, September 10, 2001

For More Information: Larry Kucker, State Bureau of Personnel, 773-3148

South Dakota Introduces "Your State of Health"

State's Health Management Program Helps Build Awareness and Improve Health 

PIERRE – The self-funded State Employee Health Plan unveiled a new health management program designed to help those living with certain health problems, as well as those who are unaware they could be at risk for life-threatening conditions, such as cardiovascular disease. 

The program, called "Your State of Health," was introduced to prevent, detect and manage certain health conditions, and help control rising health care costs through early intervention and education. It is voluntary, confidential and free of charge to employees, spouses and retirees participating in the State Employee Health Plan.

"What makes this program unique is that, in addition to helping people who are currently being treated for certain health conditions, we are making people aware of potential health concerns before they become major health problems," said Larry Kucker, Director of Employee Benefits.

By catching certain health conditions early on, the program could help participants avoid the turmoil of a serious illness and, at the same time, help save money on future health care costs.

"The State paid over $2.3 million in medical claims related to cardiovascular disease in fiscal year 2000. Because cardiovascular conditions are largely preventable, nearly half of that expense may have been avoided if members had been in a program such as this," Kucker said.

Your State of Health identifies members at high risk of cardiovascular disease and provides information, tools and resources designed to help people better understand and improve their health. The program is administered by independent health providers and includes:

• A health risk assessment which consists of a health screening and health risk questionnaire  
• Post-assessment follow-ups for those at high risk for certain health conditions   
• Disease management   
• Work site education, health news, resources and information

The disease management program, designed to help those who are being treated for certain health conditions or are at risk, will focus initially on cardiovascular disease. Eventually, it will be expanded to address other health conditions. The cardiovascular disease management program, administered by Cardium Health Services, provides personalized counseling, information and support to help improve health and reduce risk of hospitalization for those being treated for cardiovascular disease.