Benefits Corner
Benefits Corner this month covers the close of the open enrollment period and how to kick your tobacco habit.
More Featured Stories
Holiday Message
Saia Assists Wreaths Across America with Annual Mission
Tobacco Cessation
Open Enrollment Period Closes
Open enrollment has ended and we are excited to announce that over 98 percent of Saia’s eligible employees participated in the annual event. The election of benefits was required to ensure benefits coverage starting January 1, 2018.
All eligibility information was transmitted to our providers, UnitedHealthcare and MetLife. Please note that you will receive a new medical card if you newly elected coverage for the 2018 plan year. You may also print out a temporary card by visiting www.myuhc.com.
As a reminder, if you are covered under our dental plan, MetLife, a dental card is not required at the time of service. For coverage verification, request that your dentist contact MetLife at 1-800-942-0854.
If you have any questions, please contact the Benefits Department at extension 2564 or e-mail empben@saia.com.
Your Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)
Confidential help is available for you and your family members with a wide range of assistance, including:
- Counseling Services
- Financial and Legal Advice
- Family Support
- Help with Relationships and more
Call 1-866-374-6054 or log onto www.liveandworkwell.com. The access code is SAIA. TTY callers, please call 711 and ask for the number.
Please note:
The services should not be used for emergency or urgent care needs. In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. The information provided through the services is for informational purposes only and provided as part of our health plan. Wellness nurses, coaches and other phone representatives cannot diagnose problems or recommend treatment and are not a substitute for your doctor’s care. Your health information is kept confidential in accordance with the law. The services are not an insurance program and may be discontinued at any time. Insurance coverage is provided by or through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or its affiliates. Administrative services provided by UnitedHealthCare Services, Inc. or their affiliates.
Kick Your Tobacco Habit
You know that tobacco is bad for you. This is true whether you smoke, use chew tobacco, or snuff. So, why not quit today? It’s hurting your health, draining your wallet and leaving you behind in a world that’s steadily becoming tobacco-free. When you’re ready, set a date to quit. Try to stick to it. Don’t let tobacco control you for one more day. Take charge of your habit and your health!
These quit tips can help you stop smoking or chewing for good:
- Go “cold turkey.” Tapering down is usually less successful than stopping all at once.
- Clear the air. Clean your clothes, car, carpet, furniture and draperies to get rid of any smoke smell. Also, safely toss any smoking paraphernalia such as ashtrays, matches and lighters. Get rid of these and any other triggers that may cause you to start up again.
- Reward yourself. Set goals. Celebrate when you’ve reached a day, a week and a month - tobacco-free. Do something nice for yourself when you meet each goal.
- Spread the word. Let everyone know that you’re quitting. This will confirm your commitment. Plus, the support from those around you will lift your spirits.
- Talk with your doctor about aids for quitting. Using nicotine replacement therapy can greatly increase your chances of quitting. Nicotine patches and gum are popular choices that you can get over the counter. Nicotine lozenges, sprays and inhalers also are available. Ask your doctor if any prescription medicines are right for you.
- Consider speaking with a counselor or wellness coach, or joining a support group. Get a little moral support from someone who understands. It can really help when your willpower is weakening.
- When the going gets tough…The first few weeks are the hardest. Try to remember that it will get easier.
In the meantime:
- Plan ahead for cravings that hit when you’re normally reaching for tobacco. This could be when you’re nervous, angry or sad. Instead, call a friend, run in place or munch on a healthful snack. Find out what distractions work best for you. Cravings will pass after a few minutes.
- Create new daily routines. Start exercising, revive an old hobby or start a new one. Go places where you can’t smoke or chew tobacco.
- Keep your mouth busy. Chew sugar-free gum or suck on a lollipop.
- Keep your hands busy. Doodle, snap a rubber band or play with a ball.
- Watch your “tobacco money” pile up. Plan to spend it on something you’ve always wanted.