CIGNA to Better Coordinate Health, Disability Coverage

According to a CIGNA announcement, its Disability & Healthcare Connection program is designed to simplify the claims process for both policies.
 
CIGNA said that when it identifies an employee with a potential disability – through a doctor’s referral, a diagnosis or treatment regimen – a CIGNA representative contacts the employee. The representative explains the role of disability benefits, the importance of filing a claim early to spur prompt benefits payments, and the process for planning a return to work.

Coordinating a Recovery

Next, CIGNA Group Insurance’s disability nurse case managers team up with CIGNA HealthCare case managers to coordinate the employee’s recovery and return-to-work schedule.

CIGNA said its nurses and case managers together determine whether there’s a need to consult with the attending physician to get the best outcome for the employee. They also pool their efforts to coordinate rehabilitation activities, treatment schedules and the use of local community resources for the employee.

As part of the process, disability nurse case managers may also refer employees to CIGNA HealthCare’s WellAware Program for Better Health – a disease management program for chronic conditions.

An employee with diabetes, for example, can consult WellAware for information and resources.

 Additionally, disability nurses may engage CIGNA Behavioral Health psychiatric resources to provide employees with encouragement and support if needed, or refer the employee to CIGNA’s Employee Assistance Program to address work or family issues.