UPMC Introduces Health Plan with Incentives

Because chronic conditions account for more than 75% of all health care costs, and because the development of chronic diseases is largely the result of behavioral factors, HealthyU is a tool employers can use to directly address the rising cost of health care. At the same time, HealthyU focuses on the health and productivity of employees by helping them and their families understand their health, improve their health, and partner with their doctor in medical care decisions, as well as earn incentives as they do.

HealthyU members receive financial incentives in their Health Incentive Account (HIA), funded by UPMC Health Plan, by completing specific activities, such as a preventive care visit, a flu shot, or a health coaching program. Members can choose from more than 100 activities, developed from UPMC Health Plan’s wellness and care management programs. They can use the funds in their HIA to reduce out-of-pocket health care expenses, and their HIA balance can roll over year-to-year.

HealthyU is a unique combination of a high-deductible health plan and a healthy living rewards program,” said Kimberly Cepullio, Vice President of Sales and Account Management for UPMC Health Plan, in a press release. “Consumers who improve their health behaviors and become engaged in their medical care decisions have been shown to consistently improve their health and reduce their health care costs. HealthyU provides them with the incentives to achieve their health care goals.”

The high-deductible component of HealthyU encourages members to be more active consumers of health care by being involved in their options and costs. The health incentive account gives them the opportunity to earn financial rewards for healthy activities and become more engaged in decisions about their care.

Employers will have access to tools and resources to educate and engage their employees with the Employer Online Tool Kit. The kit comes with a complete library of downloadable resources to answer employees’ questions and to engage them to participate in healthy activities. Employees will also have online access to tools and information such as live chat, claims information, online lifestyle programs, and the ability to manage health care costs. 

For more information visit www.upmchealthyu.com.