Depression is a medical illness. It can affect people of all ages, but not always in the same way. Symptoms can be different for children, teens and adults. Left untreated, depression can last for months or years.
There can be emotional or physical symptoms. A person may cry easily or feel guilty or sad. A loss of interest or pleasure in things you like is another sign. You may have a change in appetite. You may sleep too much. Or, you could have aches and pains that don’t get better.
There are many causes of depression. It could be something that runs in your family. A stressful event or a medical condition can trigger depression. Abusing alcohol or drugs can cause depression. Some women get depressed after giving birth. This is called post-partum depression.
Are you feeling depressed? Talk to your Primary Care Provider (PCP) at your medical home. Early diagnosis and treatment is important. Tell your PCP about your symptoms. Discuss how you feel. Don’t be ashamed or scared.
Your PCP will ask you questions about your symptoms. There may be a physical exam and other tests. It is important to tell your PCP about any medicine you take.
Depression can be treated with medication. Counseling is another option. You may need both to feel better. Don’t stop taking medication without talking to your PCP. It can take weeks to feel the full effect of a new medication.
Hospital treatment is needed in some cases. If you are in crisis or feel you may hurt yourself or others, call 911. Or, go to the closest emergency room.
It is important to stay connected. Talk to your family and friends. Don’t isolate yourself or give up. Get involved in activities you enjoy. Eat a healthy diet and exercise. Being active will make you feel better.
Your PCP at your medical home will help you decide on a treatment plan. If needed, your PCP will refer you to mental health specialists. Illinois Health Connect can help you locate mental health providers. Call 1-877-912-1999 (TTY: 1-866-565-8577). This call is free.
Sources: Familydoctor.org, Illinois Department of Human Services
Monday, April 29, 2013
Thursday, April 18, 2013
HFS updates its Four Prescription Policy
The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) updated its Four Prescription Policy, effective April 1, to reduce the number of prescriptions a client can fill in a 30-day period, without prior authorization, from five to four.
Currently, this policy does not affect children less than 19 years old. This policy requires providers to request prior approval for clients who need to fill more than four prescriptions in a 30-day period.
Certain drugs do not need prior approval. The exempt classes of drugs are: oncolytics, anti-retroviral agents, contraceptives, over-the-counter drugs, and non-drug items such as blood glucose monitors and test strips.
Prior approval can be requested via an application on the HFS MEDI System, an online form or a faxed form. Send faxes to 217-524-7264.
It is also possible to make prior approval request by calling 1-800-252-8942.
Do not call to check on the status of a PA request. Status can be checked via MEDI or this online inquiry form.
During non-business hours, when HFS staff is not able to make determination on a PA request, pharmacies may issue and HFS will pay for a 72-hour supply of a covered drug for an eligible client in an emergency situation. The pharmacy is responsible for following up with a PA request for the emergency supply.
Currently, this policy does not affect children less than 19 years old. This policy requires providers to request prior approval for clients who need to fill more than four prescriptions in a 30-day period.
Certain drugs do not need prior approval. The exempt classes of drugs are: oncolytics, anti-retroviral agents, contraceptives, over-the-counter drugs, and non-drug items such as blood glucose monitors and test strips.
Prior approval can be requested via an application on the HFS MEDI System, an online form or a faxed form. Send faxes to 217-524-7264.
It is also possible to make prior approval request by calling 1-800-252-8942.
Do not call to check on the status of a PA request. Status can be checked via MEDI or this online inquiry form.
During non-business hours, when HFS staff is not able to make determination on a PA request, pharmacies may issue and HFS will pay for a 72-hour supply of a covered drug for an eligible client in an emergency situation. The pharmacy is responsible for following up with a PA request for the emergency supply.
HFS has completed mailing of new medical cards
The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) has mailed the new medical cards to all clients. Cards are no longer sent every month.
Clients should bring their HFS medical card and a picture ID to all doctor visits. Cards will be issued once a year. The card is not proof of eligibility.
Providers must check eligibility prior to every appointment. You cannot be charged to have eligibility verified.
If you lose your card, you can get a replacement card at no cost. Call DHS at 1-800-843-6154 or HFS at 1-800-226-0768 to request a new card.
It is OK to laminate the new medical card.
Clients should bring their HFS medical card and a picture ID to all doctor visits. Cards will be issued once a year. The card is not proof of eligibility.
Providers must check eligibility prior to every appointment. You cannot be charged to have eligibility verified.
If you lose your card, you can get a replacement card at no cost. Call DHS at 1-800-843-6154 or HFS at 1-800-226-0768 to request a new card.
It is OK to laminate the new medical card.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
All clients have been sent a new HFS medical card
The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) announced on April 16 that it has completed the mailings for the new HFS medical cards.
As previously noted, the HFS medical cards are not proof of eligibility. Providers must verify client eligibility and PCP assignment prior to each appointment on the date of service. This can be done using the HFS MEDI System, a Recipient Eligibility Verification (REV) System, the Automated Voice Response System (800-842-1461) or the HFS Health Benefits Provider Line (800-226-0768, option 6). Providers should not call the HFS billing department to verify eligibility.
The Illinois Health Connect (IHC) can verify PCP assignment, but not client eligibility, through either the IHC Provider Services Help Desk (877-912-1999, extension 3) or the Who's My PCP? link on the IHC website.
Providers may not charge clients for eligibility verification.
Providers should not refuse service if a client does not have their medical card. Eligibility and PCP status can be confirmed via MEDI using the client's name along with either the client's date of birth, or the client's Social Security number.
It is OK for clients to laminate their medical card. This will not impact the validity of the card in any way.
If client needs to request a replacement card or need assistance with their medical card, they should call either DHS (800-843-6154) or HFS (800-226-0768). Clients should not be directed to DHS Family Community Resource Centers for assistance with medical cards, as they no longer issue temporary cards or help with medical card issues.
As previously noted, the HFS medical cards are not proof of eligibility. Providers must verify client eligibility and PCP assignment prior to each appointment on the date of service. This can be done using the HFS MEDI System, a Recipient Eligibility Verification (REV) System, the Automated Voice Response System (800-842-1461) or the HFS Health Benefits Provider Line (800-226-0768, option 6). Providers should not call the HFS billing department to verify eligibility.
The Illinois Health Connect (IHC) can verify PCP assignment, but not client eligibility, through either the IHC Provider Services Help Desk (877-912-1999, extension 3) or the Who's My PCP? link on the IHC website.
Providers may not charge clients for eligibility verification.
Providers should not refuse service if a client does not have their medical card. Eligibility and PCP status can be confirmed via MEDI using the client's name along with either the client's date of birth, or the client's Social Security number.
It is OK for clients to laminate their medical card. This will not impact the validity of the card in any way.
If client needs to request a replacement card or need assistance with their medical card, they should call either DHS (800-843-6154) or HFS (800-226-0768). Clients should not be directed to DHS Family Community Resource Centers for assistance with medical cards, as they no longer issue temporary cards or help with medical card issues.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
IHC Spring 2013 Provider Profiles are now online
The Illinois Health Connect Spring 2013 Provider Profiles have been posted to the IHC Provider Portal, which can be viewed using the MEDI System. Hard copies are being mailed to each IHC medical home.
Data in the IHC Provider Profiles is gathered from adjudicated claims from the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS). Dates of service covered on the Fall 2012 Provider Profiles range from October 1, 2011 through September 30, 2012. This is not the same data used to calculate the 2012 IHC Bonus Payment for High Performance.
The Provider Profiles are mailed semi-annually to each IHC Primary Care Provider (PCP). The profiles are an overview of each PCP's performance in several clinical indicators and are issued to assist medical homes with quality assurance efforts.
IHC Quality Assurance Nurses (QAN) are available to meet with PCPs by appointment to discuss Provider Profiles and other IHC Quality Tools. Call your QAN or the IHC Provider Services Help Desk at 1-877-912-1999, extension 3, to schedule an appointment with a QAN.
The Provider Profiles are created with input from the Quality Management Subcommittee. Anyone interested in participating in this subcommittee should contact IHC Quality Assurance Manager Cari VonderHaar.
Data in the IHC Provider Profiles is gathered from adjudicated claims from the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS). Dates of service covered on the Fall 2012 Provider Profiles range from October 1, 2011 through September 30, 2012. This is not the same data used to calculate the 2012 IHC Bonus Payment for High Performance.
The Provider Profiles are mailed semi-annually to each IHC Primary Care Provider (PCP). The profiles are an overview of each PCP's performance in several clinical indicators and are issued to assist medical homes with quality assurance efforts.
IHC Quality Assurance Nurses (QAN) are available to meet with PCPs by appointment to discuss Provider Profiles and other IHC Quality Tools. Call your QAN or the IHC Provider Services Help Desk at 1-877-912-1999, extension 3, to schedule an appointment with a QAN.
The Provider Profiles are created with input from the Quality Management Subcommittee. Anyone interested in participating in this subcommittee should contact IHC Quality Assurance Manager Cari VonderHaar.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
CHITREC has new program to assist Chicago providers with EHR
The Chicago Health Information Technology Regional Extension Center (CHITREC) is now offering support to healthcare providers in Chicago through its LAUNCH program.
LAUNCH helps practices Learn, Adopt, Use, Network, Connect and collaborate through Health information technology. This program provides personalized education to practices currently using an electronic health record (EHR), planning to adopt an EHR, or looking to maximize their existing EHR.
LAUNCH offers comprehensive services and education in assessment and planning, EHR selection, meaningful use education, incentive program registration and attestation, and other customized services based on individual need.
For more information, send email to info@chitrec.org or call 312-503-2986.
LAUNCH helps practices Learn, Adopt, Use, Network, Connect and collaborate through Health information technology. This program provides personalized education to practices currently using an electronic health record (EHR), planning to adopt an EHR, or looking to maximize their existing EHR.
LAUNCH offers comprehensive services and education in assessment and planning, EHR selection, meaningful use education, incentive program registration and attestation, and other customized services based on individual need.
For more information, send email to info@chitrec.org or call 312-503-2986.
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Co-payment increase for All Kids Share and Medicaid adults
The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) recently announced a change to cost sharing for some HFS clients effective with dates of service on or after April 1, 2013.
All co-payments that were $3.65 are now $3.90. This change affects All Kids Share clients and Medicaid adults.
An updated co-payment chart is available online to replace Appendix 12 of HFS Provider Handbook Chapter 100.
All co-payments that were $3.65 are now $3.90. This change affects All Kids Share clients and Medicaid adults.
An updated co-payment chart is available online to replace Appendix 12 of HFS Provider Handbook Chapter 100.
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
All Kids Application Agent training schedule announced
The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services is offering trainings for All Kids Application Agents (AKAA) in English and Spanish at its Chicago office this Spring for AKAA who are located north of I-80.
Online registration is available for AKAA located north of I-80. Class size is limited. Registration must be submitted at least one week prior to training date. For more information, call 312-793-5270.
There are no scheduled trainings for AKAA located downstate. Scheduling is flexible and based upon requests. Call 217-524-7156 or send an email to hfs.webmaster@illinois.gov to request a training downstate.
Online registration is available for AKAA located north of I-80. Class size is limited. Registration must be submitted at least one week prior to training date. For more information, call 312-793-5270.
There are no scheduled trainings for AKAA located downstate. Scheduling is flexible and based upon requests. Call 217-524-7156 or send an email to hfs.webmaster@illinois.gov to request a training downstate.
Excercise to stay healthy!
There are many benefits to physical activity. Exercise reduces the risk of developing life-threatening illnesses, such as heart disease. Plus, it makes you feel better!
Exercise can help control high blood pressure and raise “good” cholesterol. Diabetics who exercise may be able to use less insulin. The risk of coronary heart disease will decrease over time with a good fitness program.
When you exercise, you are healthier. Combined with a healthy diet, exercise can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
You will develop a positive mindset. Exercise reduces feelings of depression. Being active also lowers your stress level.
There are many things throughout the day you can’t control. Lots of them will add to your stress. Deciding to exercise is the exact opposite. You are in complete control of this decision and it makes you feel better.
Physical activity increases strength. You will be more flexible. Everyday life is easier if you are fit. Being active now will help you later in life. Exercise reduces the risk of falling.
Most people do not need to speak to their Primary Care Provider (PCP) before starting sensible, gradual fitness program. However, pregnant women, those with health problems, or who are elderly should talk to their PCP first. If you are unsure, talk to your PCP.
Start off slowly. Begin with about 10 minutes of light exercise. Try a brisk walk. Build up the length and intensity of exercise gradually. Work out with a friend. Try new routines over time to keep it fun and fresh.
Make sure you drink water before, during and after exercising. Sodas and other sugary drinks do not provide proper hydration during exercise.
Remain active throughout your day. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Walk all the way or part of the way to work. Rake leaves or work in your garden for a few minutes. If you have housework to do, do it quickly.
Make it fun! Listen to music. Set goals that you can achieve and then set new ones! Pick something you like to do like dancing or playing soccer. Pick a time of day that works for your schedule and stick to it.
Say yes to exercise today and thank yourself tomorrow!
Source: Illinois Department of Public Health
Exercise can help control high blood pressure and raise “good” cholesterol. Diabetics who exercise may be able to use less insulin. The risk of coronary heart disease will decrease over time with a good fitness program.
When you exercise, you are healthier. Combined with a healthy diet, exercise can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
You will develop a positive mindset. Exercise reduces feelings of depression. Being active also lowers your stress level.
There are many things throughout the day you can’t control. Lots of them will add to your stress. Deciding to exercise is the exact opposite. You are in complete control of this decision and it makes you feel better.
Physical activity increases strength. You will be more flexible. Everyday life is easier if you are fit. Being active now will help you later in life. Exercise reduces the risk of falling.
Most people do not need to speak to their Primary Care Provider (PCP) before starting sensible, gradual fitness program. However, pregnant women, those with health problems, or who are elderly should talk to their PCP first. If you are unsure, talk to your PCP.
Start off slowly. Begin with about 10 minutes of light exercise. Try a brisk walk. Build up the length and intensity of exercise gradually. Work out with a friend. Try new routines over time to keep it fun and fresh.
Make sure you drink water before, during and after exercising. Sodas and other sugary drinks do not provide proper hydration during exercise.
Remain active throughout your day. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Walk all the way or part of the way to work. Rake leaves or work in your garden for a few minutes. If you have housework to do, do it quickly.
Make it fun! Listen to music. Set goals that you can achieve and then set new ones! Pick something you like to do like dancing or playing soccer. Pick a time of day that works for your schedule and stick to it.
Say yes to exercise today and thank yourself tomorrow!
Source: Illinois Department of Public Health
Monday, April 1, 2013
DocAssist offers pediatric mental health consultations
Illinois DocAssist is a consultation service designed to help primary care providers diagnose and treat mental health and substance abuse issues for patients ages 0-21 years old.
The phone consultations are available Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. All consultations are free. DocAssist consultants are UIC faculty and staff clinicians with expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric mental health and substance abuse.
In addition to phone consultations, DocAssist offers trainings as well as the opportunity to schedule collaborative office rounds at the primary care location. DocAssist can also provide referral resources for patients when face-to-face consultations with a psychiatrist or mental health professional is appropriate.
Call 1-866-986-2778 or send email to docassist@psych.uic.edu to request a consultation. All calls are answered directly or returned promptly, but always within one business day.
The phone consultations are available Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. All consultations are free. DocAssist consultants are UIC faculty and staff clinicians with expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric mental health and substance abuse.
In addition to phone consultations, DocAssist offers trainings as well as the opportunity to schedule collaborative office rounds at the primary care location. DocAssist can also provide referral resources for patients when face-to-face consultations with a psychiatrist or mental health professional is appropriate.
Call 1-866-986-2778 or send email to docassist@psych.uic.edu to request a consultation. All calls are answered directly or returned promptly, but always within one business day.
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