Principal Unveils Chronic Illness Health Plan Program

Principal said in a news release that its AccordantCare program is intended for employees of companies with Principal medical plans with complex, complicated diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and cystic fibrosis. The announcement said the program provides extensive, supportive programs that maintain or improve the workers’ quality of life and is available at no additional cost to already-covered companies. This program is available to self-funded customers for an additional fee on an employer-elected basis.

The AccordantCare program is designed to help members stay as healthy as possible, translating into fewer trips to the doctor’s office, hospital or emergency room, saving time and reducing potential expenses, according to the announcement. AccordantCare features specially trained nurses, available by telephone 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to answer questions and assist in:

• identifying symptoms or potential concerns members may want to discuss with their doctors
• locating specific resources and information helpful to members
• improving members understanding of preventative health strategies
• monitoring changes in member health.

Principal said it is offering the program through an agreement with Accordant Health Services, a Caremark company.

“We want our members to know that they are not alone. When dealing with a chronic condition, they can lean on us at any time to help them manage their health concerns and coordinate their treatments,” noted Ray Webster, Principal Financial Group chief medical director. “Through the AccordantCare program, we are able to provide dedicated resources to provide not only assistance with individual situations, but also educational tools to improve overall health.”

More information is at    www.principal.com/health .