Let's Get Started!

(This article first appeared in the January/February 2020 issue of the American Postal Worker magazine) 

Earning your vote as Health Plan Director is far and above one of the most exciting moments of my union career. Thanks to those that supported me; your confidence and trust mean so much. To those that did not, I will work diligently to gain your support over the next three years. Delivering affordable, quality health care will always be on the top of my priority list and I look forward to serving all of my APWU brothers and sisters, active and retired.

During my first 20 days onsite at the Health Plan, I have noticed that the staff leads from a long time of commitment and experience. We have over 1,000 years of experience in Glen Burnie, MD, at the Health Plan headquarters. Our purpose is connecting union members to what’s important in their lives – health care. APWU Health Plan connects you and your family to reliable benefits at an affordable premium. Together. Better Health.

Technology brought an enormous and welcoming change to the health care industry. APWU Health Plan is at the front of the pack when it comes to innovation. Our members now have access to some of the best data and web tools available. As you begin your benefit year, I wanted to offer you some cost-saving solutions on care. The following are some of my favorite digital items that you have access to as an APWU Health Plan Member.

Try a virtual visit this year.

Save time and money. Save with a reduced co-pay for the High Option ($15) and lower co-insurance dollars for the Consumer Driven Option. Virtual visits enable scheduled or on-demand visits on a computer, tablet, or mobile device between you and a doctor. Save time by seeing a doctor in the comfort of your home, workplace, or anywhere you may be. Virtual visits are perfect for providing you or a family member with quality care, without all the hassle of taking a trip to the doctor’s office. As a new benefit for 2020, virtual visits are now available for mental health and substance use disorders in addition to medical care.

Register today so that when it’s time for a visit, no registration is required. “Be Ready When Sick Happens.” Virtual Visits are available anytime, 24/7/365 and are options for fever, pink eye, bronchitis, seasonal flu, cough and cold, and sinus problems. Most visits take 10 to 15 minutes, and in some cases, your doctor can write a prescription, if needed, that you can pick up at your local pharmacy. Save time and money with virtual visits. Bring the doctor to you. See the following websites for details:

• High Option members: See www.AMWell.com or call 855-818-DOCS for medical care, and www.mdlive/APWU or call 888-430-4827 for mental health visits.

• Consumer Driven Option members: Log-in at www.myuhc.com to get started.

Get on-the-go-access to your plans.

Register for myAPWUHP for secure online access to your ID card and important claims details. Your member portal automatically transfers medical information from your claims and organizes it in a single secure location. From your computer, mobile device, or app, you can access Health Plan information such as claims status, deductible balance, co-pays and coverage and maximums. You can also print or show your ID card with the mobile app. You have two ways to access your information:

1. Register or log-in on the APWU Health Plan website. See the “Log-in” button located at the top, right corner of www.apwuhp.com.

2. Find our mobile apps in the Google and App store. Search “myapwuhp” for the High Option and “myuhc” for the Consumer Driven Option.