When Health Needs Get Complicated

Dealing with a complex medical condition can be overwhelming. Evaluating complicated treatment options and dealing with large, impersonal medical institutions, can leave you feeling vulnerable and frustrated as you try to make critical decisions.

It is up to you to become involved in your health care, and learn how to interact with the health care system, especially when dealing with
complex issues, so that you and your family members receive the
quality of care you want.

Communicating with Your Doctors

Communicating effectively with your doctors is always important for good health care. It is not always easy, but using these 8 easy steps can provide good results:

• Gather as much trustworthy information as you can on your condition.
• Use online resources such as myuhc.com; Aetna Navigator, or the Personal Health Manager on www.webmd.com
• Arrive at your appointment with a list of questions - and ask them.
• Take key information with you, including your medical and medication history.
• Don't be afraid to discuss embarrassing subjects.
• Use a notebook, ask questions and double-checkyour notes for accuracy.
• Bring someone with you for support and to help you remember what was said.
• Make sure you understand what the doctor is saying and what you should be doing.

Following these steps is especially important when things get complicated and you need to locate a specialist or obtain specialty care.

Quality healthcare is achieved by strong partnerships, working together for better health.

Identifying Specialists and Specialty Care

The Aetna Aexcel^SM Specialist Network identifies specialists who are part of the Aetna broader network and who have met clinical performance and efficiency standards. Premium doctors and facilities will be identified by stars when you use Aetna's DocFind

UnitedHealthcare Premium® designation program, found on www.myuhc.com, can help you identify physicians and specialty centers in your area who have demonstrated their commitment to providing health care that adheres to nationally recognized quality, efficiency, and successful outcome criteria. Premium doctors and facilities will be identified by stars when you use Search for Care in Your Network.

If you are enrolled in the HIP Prime or Oxford Freedom HMO plans, contact your member services department for help if you need specialty care.