Use Women's Health Benefits Model health plans offer services that address the special needs of women. Women in mid-life certainly face the normal changes associated with aging, but also must contend with the risks of heart disease, cancer, and osteoporosis. More and more health plans are setting up programs to deal with menopause. They track members who have received pap smears, mammograms, colorectal screenings, blood pressure and cholesterol checks. If you are unaware of such programs in your health plan, be sure to ask.
Health plans are particularly aware of the importance of breast cancer screenings.
Regular mammography and clinical breast exams are critical to preventing breast cancer and to early treatment. Some plans provide support services to women diagnosed with breast cancer and will help patients evaluate alternate treatments. For pregnant members, managed care plans normally conduct classes on birth, nursing, and parenting, and provide links to government and community resources, such as nutrition, safety, and substance abuse. Health plans train their staffs to recognize signs of physical and mental abuse and to provide help for the special needs of abused women. Some health plans offer support groups and guides to community agencies for counseling, therapy, and shelter.