https://connect.bcbsok.com/espanol/b/tusalud/posts/no-hay-necesidad-de-sobreanalizar-solo-de-vacunarFri, 07 Aug 2026 18:56:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:ae45dfe5-e710-47c7-9f00-b77ee4953171EquipoConnectEs difícil mantener a tus hijos seguros cada minuto del día. Sin embargo, hay una cosa que puedes hacer para ayudar a protegerlos las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana: asegurarte de que reciban todas las vacunas infantiles recomendadas. ¿Qué vacunas necesitan los niños? Desde el nacimiento, los bebés y los niños pequeños necesitan ciertas vacunas para ayudarles a mantenerse saludables a medida que crecen. Los niños mayores, incluso los preadolescentes y los adolescentes, también necesitan vacunas de vez en cuando. El pediatra te recordará sobre las vacunas durante la consulta anual preventiva para niños . ¿Por qué son tan importantes las vacunas? Cuando tus hijos no reciben las vacunas necesarias tienen un mayor riesgo de padecer muchas enfermedades mortales, que incluso pueden transmitir a sus amigos y familiares. Vacunarse es una manera confiable de prevenir muchas enfermedades que alguna vez fueron mortales. Las vacunas exponen el cuerpo a una cantidad muy pequeña de gérmenes y virus débiles. Es entonces cuando el sistema inmunitario desarrolla la habilidad para combatir estos virus en el futuro. Las vacunas han ralentizado o detenido la propagación de la poliomielitis, el sarampión, las paperas y otras enfermedades en los EE. UU. Los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC, en inglés) crearon esta guía de referencia rápida que te informa sobre las vacunas para tus hijos y cuándo deben recibirlas. Todavía se habla sobre la seguridad de las vacunas. Algunos padres se preocupan y rechazan las vacunas para sus hijos. Por ejemplo, un temor común es un supuesto vínculo entre el autismo y las vacunas. Las investigaciones demuestran que no existe dicho vínculo. De hecho, los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades informan que las vacunas no causan autismo. El regreso del sarampión Una enfermedad rara reapareció debido a que un pequeño número de padres decidió no vacunar a sus hijos. Todo comenzó cuando varios niños que habían visitado un parque de diversiones en 2014 contrajeron sarampión. Esto no había sucedido en los Estados Unidos en 15 años. En 2019 se produjo otro brote relacionado con los viajes aéreos, y esta tendencia se ha mantenido durante los últimos años. Cada año se registraron numerosos brotes, sumando más de 2,100 casos en 2025 y nuevamente en 2026. Se estima que el 93% de las personas infectadas, especialmente los niños, no estaban vacunadas. Si bien tenemos la suerte de que algunas enfermedades ya no existen en los EE. UU., por lo general, estas se pueden contraer en un viaje en avión. Por ejemplo, la poliomielitis todavía afecta a algunos niños en ciertos países de Medio Oriente , África e Islas del Pacífico. Las personas infectadas pueden transmitir la enfermedad durante semanas, ya sea antes o después de que los síntomas aparezcan. Estos ejemplos destacan la razón por la que los CDC declaran que "pronto podríamos estar luchando contra epidemias de enfermedades que creíamos haber vencido hace décadas". Mantén a todos saludables Cuando los niños y los adultos reciben las vacunas recomendadas, estas ayudan a proteger a las personas a su alrededor. Además de prevenir la propagación de enfermedades a los amigos y los familiares, también ayudan a proteger a los demás. Los bebés muy pequeños, las embarazadas, los pacientes con cáncer, las personas con VIH y otros problemas médicos pueden tener sistemas inmunitarios vulnerables. Si tienes inquietudes o preguntas sobre las vacunas, consulta a tu médico o al pediatra de tus hijos. De esa manera, puedes tomar la mejor decisión para la salud de tu familia y comunidad. Fuentas: AAP Schedule of Well-Child Care Visits , American Academy of Pediatrics, 2026; Recommended Vaccines for Young Children , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2025; Common Vaccine Safety Questions and Concerns , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; Measles Cases and Outbreaks , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2026; Global Polio Eradication Initiative , Polio Eradication.org, 2026Tu SaludEspañolVacunassalud públicohttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/dont-be-sidelined-by-exercise-induced-asthmaFri, 07 Aug 2026 11:52:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:54392848-bebe-4d1d-99ed-fea9e4ddca52BCBSOK Connect TeamDavid Beckham is one of the best-known soccer players of all time. Roy Hibbert is a two-time NBA All-Star. Swimmer Amy Van Dyken is a six-time Olympic gold medalist. What do these athletes have in common? They all live with asthma. Beckham has been managing his asthma since he was a young boy. Hibbert wasn’t diagnosed until he was well into his NBA career. Van Dyken joined a swim team to live a more active life with asthma. With the help of a doctor, you can be active even though you’ve been diagnosed with asthma. Exercise can help you stay healthy and control your symptoms. What’s the link between asthma and exercise? Physical activity can bring on an asthma attack called exercise-induced asthma (EIA). Experts say 40 to 90 percent of people dealing with chronic asthma also go through EIA. Symptoms include chest tightness, shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. These symptoms may happen within the first few minutes of exercise or right after stopping a workout. They can last for an hour or longer and may lead to an asthma attack. Are some exercises more likely to cause an attack? Some high-intensity activities are more likely to trigger EIA. Basketball, soccer, running and field hockey are a few examples. Activities in cold, dry air, such as cross-country skiing, snowboarding and ice-skating, can cause a bout of EIA, too. How should an athlete manage asthma? The Cleveland Clinic notes a proper warm-up can make a big difference in whether you run into breathing trouble during exercise. How can you reduce your risk? Exercise-induced asthma is a life-long health problem that you can manage. Your doctor may give you a pre-exercise medicine to help prevent symptoms. It’s also important to follow these tips: Warm up for several minutes by stretching and running in place. Check your asthma with your peak-flow meter before you exercise. Exercise indoors during cold weather or when air pollution and airborne allergens like pollen are at high levels. If you do exercise outdoors during these conditions, then breathe through your nose and cover your face with a mask. Use quick-acting medicine from your doctor if your asthma gets worse. Your doctor may also recommend a quick-acting medication before exercise as part of your Asthma Action Plan. Avoid working out when your symptoms aren’t under control, or when you have a cold or other infection. Engage in activities like leisure walking, biking or swimming that are less triggering. Cool down slowly after your workout. Don’t stop suddenly; wind down slowly for several minutes. Having asthma doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun or healthy benefits of an active lifestyle. Talk with your doctor about activities that are best for you and your asthma management. Sources: Asthma and Exercise , American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, 2026; Exercise-Induced Asthma , Cleveland Clinic, 2024; Breathing Easy: How to Safely Exercise Outdoors With Asthma , Cleveland Clinic, 2025Health and WellnessExerciseAsthmaAsthma Diet and HealthHealth Conditions and Preventionhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/what-exactly-is-asthmaFri, 07 Aug 2026 08:30:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:d2e01111-f4a9-4e52-88ab-b237334161d0BCBSOK Connect TeamIn the United States, more than 28 million people have asthma. Nearly 5 million of them are children under the age of 18. Why are children so vulnerable? Asthma is a disease of the lungs that causes airways to swell and narrow. Since children have smaller airways than adults, it’s even harder for air to pass through them during an asthma attack. As a result, asthma is especially serious for children. When children are exposed to certain triggers, they can quickly develop a cough and trouble breathing. Triggers can include anything they can breathe in. Pollen floating in the air and cigarette smoke are two examples. Respiratory colds and infections can trigger asthma attacks, too. Symptoms can make it difficult — sometimes impossible — to play sports, focus at school or even sleep. Are Adult and Child Asthma the Same? Asthma is the same in adults and children. Due to their developing lungs and smaller airways, children can face more severe challenges with the disease. In fact, childhood asthma is a leading cause of emergency room visits, hospitalizations and missed school days . Parents often have to leave work to care for their child. As a chronic disease, childhood asthma can't be cured, but it can be managed. For many, asthma symptoms often continue into adulthood. How Do I Know What Asthma Triggers to Avoid? Children with asthma may experience wheezing, coughing, tightness in the chest, and trouble breathing. Many things can bring on an asthma attack, including: Weather - cold air, changes in climate Exercise - high-intensity movement Infections - flu, common cold Allergens - mold, pollen, dust, dander from animals Irritants - cigarette smoke, air pollution Emotions – strong crying or laughing How Is Asthma Treated? With the right treatment, you and your child can keep symptoms under control and prevent damage to growing lungs. Asthma is generally treated with two medicines: Daily meds for long-term control (‘controller’ medicines) to prevent symptoms Quick-relief meds to help with asthma attacks and flare-ups When your child has asthma, the condition is always there — even when things are going fine. Symptoms can flare up at any time. Medicine might not work as well as it once did in preventing an asthma attack. Your child may need to use a quick-relief medicine every day to stop asthma attacks. If this happens, talk with your child’s doctor. It could be a sign that your child’s asthma is getting worse. A change in medication may be needed to keep symptoms under control. Take other steps to help fend off asthma attacks. Avoiding asthma triggers. Monitor symptoms. Create and follow an Asthma Action Plan . Most kids with asthma can do all the fun things they want to do. Your child will feel better — and have more fun — when their asthma is controlled.& Sources: Asthma Facts, Figures and Stats , Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, 2026; Childhood Asthma , American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, 2026; Asthma in Children , MedlinePlus 2025; Back to School with Healthy Lungs , American Lung Association, 2026; Create an Asthma Action Plan , American Lung Association, 2026Health and WellnessLung HealthUnderstanding AsthmaChildren’s HealthAsthmaHealth Conditions and Preventionhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/what-to-do-with-a-breast-cancer-diagnosisThu, 06 Aug 2026 15:14:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:74284de0-86eb-4e8c-b462-31844d6e0a04BCBSOK Connect TeamAbout one in eight American women will develop breast cancer during her lifetime. What happens when you or a loved one is among them? Breast cancer treatment is a journey. At times, it may seem overwhelming. Take comfort knowing we're here for you. Here are some guideposts and resources to help you along the way. Share News About Your Diagnosis Learning you have cancer can be an emotional rollercoaster. Although “cancer” is easy to pronounce, it can be the hardest word to say when you’ve just been diagnosed. Remember, it’s healthy to talk about it with your friends and family. Sharing the news can help you cope. It can relieve feelings of isolation and frustration. When you're ready, tell your loved ones about your diagnosis. Use words that are comfortable for you. There’s no one right or wrong way to discuss your disease. Get help. Make a list of people you want to tell personally. Then ask a family member or trusted friend to talk with others. Plan ahead. Most people will have questions about your prognosis or next steps. Think about how much you want to share — it’s up to you. There may be topics you aren’t ready to talk about. Think about ways to change the subject if something you don’t want to talk about comes up. Be gentle, but honest when talking with children. They may sense something is wrong and should hear about your cancer from you. Stay calm and assure them they’ll be cared for. Take Good Care of Yourself Steps you take to nurture your physical, emotional and spiritual well-being are vital during this time. Here are some tips to help you cope better: Get enough rest, eat healthy foods and stay physically active. Stay involved with the activities and things you enjoy. Not all parts of your life need to be put on hold. Find quiet time for reflection and relaxation. Get help from your doctor if you feel anxious, hopeless or depressed for more than two weeks. Prepare for Treatment Making decisions about your treatment may seem overwhelming. There are many choices when it comes to cancer treatments, so decisions may not always be straightforward. Learn as much as you can about your cancer and the treatment options available to you. When you’re actively involved in the decision-making, it will help you better understand your treatment. Understanding can help you feel more in control and less worried about the road ahead. We’re Here to Help Along with understanding your diagnosis, knowing what to do next isn’t always clear. As a member, feel free to reach out to us here at Blue Cross and Blue Shield. You can log in to your account online and speak to one of our Customer advocates through Secure Message or a live webchat. You can also call the customer service number on your member ID card. To find out what resources and help are available to you, just tell the Customer Advocate you’ve learned you have breast cancer. Ask to talk with a care manager. We have a team of registered nurses and social workers ready to help you through your treatment and recovery journey. Together, they’ll make sure you get the best possible care. These care managers can be a lifeline to support services. They will: Explain your treatment options Provide referrals to doctors if you need a second opinion Help plan your treatment and recovery Offer resources to assist you and your family with childcare, transportation and finding affordable medicine Listen and help you cope with feelings and emotions Find resources for a wig Connect you with a dietitian to address your new nutrition needs Case managers also work with our teams of doctors and pharmacists to review your treatments and medicines. These reviews help prevent harmful interactions with any of the drugs you take. They let you know about any foods you need to avoid while taking certain medicines. Case managers also work behind the scenes to coordinate care among your doctors. Along with coordinating your medical care, a case manager helps you understand what’s ahead, provides answers to your medical questions, and guides you through the journey with compassion. Are you facing breast cancer? Sources: Cancer Diagnosis: 11 Tips for Coping , Mayo Clinic, 2026; Breast Cancer Facts & Stats , National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., 2026Health and WellnessWomen’s HealthCancerBreast CancerLiving with Breast Cancerhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/espanol/b/tusalud/posts/afectan-las-redes-sociales-a-la-salud-mentalTue, 04 Aug 2026 21:41:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:2ecbbdc1-feb2-4a82-96c4-0cce5bda6c22EquipoConnectLas redes sociales y las herramientas digitales se han convertido en compañeras constantes en la vida de la mayoría de las personas. Si bien existen algunos beneficios positivos, las investigaciones también muestran el daño que las redes sociales pueden causar a la salud mental si no se maneja el uso adecuadamente. La mayoría de las personas usan las redes sociales a diario. Los estadounidenses pasan en promedio más de dos horas al día en plataformas de redes sociales. El aviso del director general de salud señala que hasta el 95 por ciento de los adolescentes de 13 a 17 años han informado que usan una plataforma de redes sociales. Y más de un tercio de ellos afirma que usa las redes sociales “casi constantemente”. Los canales de redes sociales han sido elogiados por su capacidad de reunir a personas de todo el mundo. También pueden mejorar el acceso a la información y servir como plataformas para la autoexpresión, la creatividad y el apoyo social. Pero algunos estudios han encontrado que pasar más de tres horas al día en las redes sociales puede ser perjudicial para tu salud. Puede contribuir al sueño deficiente , reducción de la actividad física , aislamiento y un mayor riesgo de depresión y ansiedad. El uso frecuente de las redes sociales puede llevarnos a compararnos con lo que otras personas publican en línea. Cuando las expectativas no se cumplen, puede tener un impacto negativo en la autoestima. A veces, la ansiedad o la depresión pueden aparecer como consecuencia. Los jóvenes tienen aún más probabilidades que los adultos de verse afectados negativamente. Según el aviso del director general de salud, su etapa de desarrollo cerebral los hace más vulnerables a la presión social, la comparación con sus compañeros, las conductas de riesgo y la depresión. La depresión es mucho más que sentirse triste o deprimido. Es padecimiento de salud mental grave que puede durar semanas, meses o más. Puede interferir con la capacidad de manejar la vida diaria. Del mismo modo, aunque cierta ansiedad es una parte normal de la vida, los trastornos de ansiedad son mucho más que preocupaciones o miedos ocasionales. Pueden apoderarse de tu vida, agotar tu energía y hacer que las tareas cotidianas parezcan difíciles. Maneja el uso de las redes sociales para una mejor salud mental Manejar el uso de las redes sociales puede ayudar a mejorar el bienestar mental. Para mantener el uso bajo control, la Asociación Americana de Psiquiatría recomienda los siguientes consejos: Controla el tiempo. ¿Cuánto tiempo pasas en las plataformas de redes sociales? Establece un límite de tiempo, como 20 minutos al día y cúmplelo. Desactiva las notificaciones. Controla las distracciones de las redes sociales para mantenerte enfocado en las actividades actuales. Reduce temporalmente (o permanentemente) la presencia. Reduce la cantidad de canales y aplicaciones que utilizas para que haya menos opciones compitiendo por tu atención. Establece horarios específicos para estar en línea o desconectado. Establece horarios específicos en que usarás o no las aplicaciones. Elige horas del día en las que estés libre de otras tareas. Por ejemplo, puede ser después de cenar o durante tu hora de almuerzo. Asegúrate de cumplir con el límite de tiempo que establezcas. Tómate un descanso. Desconéctate por completo de las redes sociales. Tómate un día, una semana, un mes o más. Al igual que tomar vacaciones, esto puede ser un buen reinicio mental. Sé analítico y selectivo. Es importante evaluar las fuentes, el contenido y la credibilidad de la información que lees en las redes sociales. Considera seguir a personas, temas, sitios y actividades que resultan motivadores y de ayuda. El contenido útil o positivo es mejor para tu bienestar mental. Revisa tu configuración de privacidad. Asegúrate de saber qué información o imágenes compartes y quién puede verlas. Establece límites en la configuración de seguridad para reducir el riesgo de que personas desconocidas o no deseadas vean, comenten o utilicen tu contenido. Vive tu vida y enfócate en las relaciones presenciales. Prioriza las conexiones y actividades presenciales, ya que puede ayudar con el aislamiento social. Interactuar con otras personas y con el mundo que te rodea puede reducir los sentimientos de soledad y depresión. Para los padres de niños y adolescentes, puede parecer abrumador intentar supervisar el uso de las redes sociales. La Academia Americana de Pediatría ha creado el centro de excelencia para las redes sociales y la salud mental para brindar ayuda. Fue diseñado como una fuente basada en hechos de educación y orientación sobre el tiempo frente a la pantalla para padres con hijos de cualquier edad. Tomar medidas para supervisar tu relación o la de tu familia con las redes sociales es un paso positivo para promover el bienestar mental. Si descubres que tú o un miembro de tu familia está batallando mentalmente, pide ayuda siempre. Los consejeros de salud mental y los grupos de apoyo entre pares, como los de la Alianza Nacional sobre Enfermedades Mentales ( NAMI , en inglés), son buenos recursos para ayudarte a ti o a tu familia a volver a sentirse mejor. Sources: Relationship of screen time with anxiety, depression, and sleep quality among adolescents: a cross-sectional study , Frontiers in Public Health, National Library of Medicine, 2024; What doctors wish patients knew about cutting down on screen time , American Medical Association, 2025; The hazards of excessive screen time: impacts on physical health, mental health, and overall well-being , Journal of Education and Health Promotion, National Library of Medicine, 2023; Social Media and Youth Mental Health , U.S. Surgeon General, 2023; Anxiety Disorders , National Institute of Mental Health, 2024; 6 Tips to Help Take Control of Your Social Media Use and Improve Well-being , American Psychiatric Association, 2022; 7 Tips for Using Social Media for Mental Well-being , American Psychiatric Association, 2023; Kids & Screen Time: How to Use the 5 C's of Media Guidance , American Academy of Pediatrics, 2026; Can a Break From Social Media Improve Mental Health? , Psychology Today, 2024; How Social Media Impacts Mental Health , Positive Psychology, 2025; Frequent Social Media Use and Experiences with Bullying Victimization, Persistent Feelings of Sadness or Hopelessness, and Suicide Risk Among High School Students — Youth Risk Behavior Survey, United States, 2023 , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; Americans’ Social Media Use 2025 , Pew Research Center, 2025Tu SaludEspañolNiñosSalud mentalSalud y Bienestarhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/get-fit-quickFri, 31 Jul 2026 21:36:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:2b9f7835-f033-445c-ae61-dd9a7857cb70BCBSOK Connect TeamIf you’re looking to shake up your fitness routine, you have a lot of choices. If you want to raise your fitness level but don’t have a lot of time, a shorter, more efficient workout may be the answer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says a dults should regularly get aerobic activity and muscle strengthening. Aim for 150 minutes of exercise a week. You can break up those 150 minutes however works best for you. What Works for You Start by looking at your current fitness level. If you’re not already active, talk to your doctor before launching into a new workout plan. Some ways to move more, like adding more walking steps to your day or devoting time to stretch, are safe for many people. But exercise plans are not one-size-fits-all. If you’re already active and shopping for something new, try micro-workouts. Shortened work out sessions can be very effective. And they’re a plus for those who don’t have a lot time to exercise. Interval Training One micro-workout is interval training. Aerobic interval training , sometimes called high-intensity interval training (HIIT), started with elite athletes. But you don’t have to be an athlete to do it. Interval training is alternating short bursts of intense activity with longer intervals of less intense activity. To start with, the higher intensity bursts should be about 30 seconds each, followed by regular intensity activity for about a minute or two. What types of activity you use for interval training depends on your fitness level and what you like to do. It’s a way to burn more calories in a shorter time. It can also keep you from getting bored. Another plus: no new equipment needed. The idea can be incorporated into things you’re already doing. Try adding a bit of jogging to your normal walk or stepping up your pace regularly during a walk. You can start adding intervals into your workout program a bit at a time, just one or two higher intensity intervals during each workout. As your fitness improves, you can challenge yourself with more intervals. Work up to about 30 minutes total for your interval training workout. Be sure to warm up for about five minutes before you start adding interval bursts, and cool down for five minutes. A total of 10 to 15 minutes of your workout should be done at the higher intensity. For the rest of the time, including the warmup and cooldown, activity should be done at a regular intensity level. In addition to fitting a better workout into a shorter period of time, interval training can break you out of an exercise slump by adding something new. If you have health issues or aren’t already exercising regularly, talk to your doctor before starting any kind of interval training. Other Fitness Options If you’re looking for more ideas to help change things up, try some of these. Online Training: Easy to do at home, online training can be done by yourself or with a group. It can include one-on-one training with a teacher. Wearables: Stay motivated and on track with a smart watch or fitness tracker. They can help you watch your heart rate and track your time spent being active, sedentary or sleeping. Body Weight Training: Weight training using your body weight is a back-to-basics plan that can be cheap because it uses little equipment. Organized Outdoor Activities: Group walks, bike rides, hikes — the sky’s the limit with outdoor activity. And working out as part of a group can help you stay motivated and have more fun. Strength Training with Free Weights: Training with free weights can be done solo or with a buddy or group at a gym, at home or even outside. It’s a good idea to get started with a trainer to show you proper form. Fitness Programs for Older Adults: More fitness programs are available for Baby Boomers and others eager to stay active. Sources: Adult Activity: An Overview , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022; Interval training for heart health , Mayo Clinic, 2023; Interval training: A shorter, more enjoyable workout? , Harvard Medical School, 2024Health and WellnessWeight ManagementExerciseNutritionhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/nutrition/w/recipe-book/347/nigerian-stewed-spinach-shiitake-mushroomsFri, 31 Jul 2026 21:14:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:aae0095b-1927-4297-9fe8-018f3ae635cfBCBSOK Connect TeamIngredients: Makes 9 servings 4 cups Water 1 cup Yellow Onions, sliced 1 cup Shiitake Mushrooms, stems removed, sliced 1 small Habanero Pepper* 2 cups Red Bell Peppers, diced 2 1/2 cup Yellow Onion, chopped 4 Garlic Cloves 2 TBSP Canola Oil 1 LB Baby Spinach 2 TBSP Canola Oil 1/4 tsp Salt Directions: Make the mushroom broth. In a medium pot, combine water, sliced onion, and shiitake mushrooms. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes. Strain out the onions and mushrooms, reserving both the broth and the solids separately. Remove stems and seeds from habaneros. Blend broth with bell peppers, onions, habanero and garlic cloves until smooth. *Adjust the amount of the habanero based on your spice tolerance. Be sure to remove the seeds to remove the heat. Heat oil in a sauté pan. Sauté spinach until wilted and mostly dehydrated. Gently squeeze out excess liquid and set spinach aside. In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons oil over medium heat. Pour in the blended vegetable mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce darkens slightly and thickens, about 15 minutes. Stir in the cooked spinach and the reserved onions and mushrooms. Simmer for 5 more minutes to blend the flavors. Season with salt to taste. Serving Size: Serving: 1/2 cup Nutritional Information: Per serving: 100 calories, 6 g fat, 0.5 g saturated fat, 105 mg sodium, 11 g carbs, 0 g sugar, 3 g fiber, 3 g protein Recipe Source: Recipe provided by FLIK Hospitality GroupHigh blood pressure - Sodium ConsciousHeart Disease - Heart ConsciousAppetizerVegetarianGeneral Healthy - Health ConsciousDiabetes/prediabetes - Carb ConsciousRecipe BookSoupAfricanhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/nutrition/w/recipe-book/346/nigerian-stewed-chickenFri, 31 Jul 2026 21:12:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:508ebc2b-688b-4a1c-9c06-6bfc295ee073BCBSOK Connect TeamIngredients: Makes 5 servings 2 lb Chicken Thighs 1/2 cup Yellow Onions, diced 2 tsp Garlic Cloves, minced 1/4 tsp Salt 1 tsp Curry Powder 3/4 tsp Fresh Thyme, minced 2 tsp Ginger, minced 2 Habanero Peppers* 2 cups Red Bell Pepper 8-9 Roma Tomatoes, chopped 1 cup Yellow Onions, chopped 3/4 tsp Curry Powder 2 tsp Fresh Thyme 3 TBSP Oil 1/2 tsp Salt 2/3 cups Chicken Broth 3 TBSP Parsley, chopped Directions: Combine chicken thighs with onions, garlic, salt, curry powder, thyme and ginger. Allow to marinate in the refrigerator overnight. Remove stems and seeds from habaneros. *Adjust the amount of the habanero based on your spice tolerance. Be sure to remove the seeds to remove the heat. In a blender, combine bell peppers, tomatoes, habaneros, yellow onion, curry powder and thyme. Blend until mostly smooth. Heat oil in skillet. Sear chicken thighs (+ items from marinade) until golden brown. Remove using a slotted spoon and set aside. Add pepper puree and salt to skillet, cook for 10 minutes. Add chicken thighs and chicken stock back to skillet. Simmer until chicken is very tender and starts to fall apart, about 1 hour. Garnish with parsley. Serving Size: Serving: 1 cup Nutritional Information: Per serving: 390 calories, 19 g fat, 4 g saturated fat, 500 mg sodium, 16 g carbohydrate, 0 g sugar, 5 g fiber, 37 g protein Recipe Source: Recipe provided by FLIK Hospitality GroupEntreeGeneral Healthy - Health ConsciousDiabetes/prediabetes - Carb ConsciousRecipe BookAfricanhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/nutrition/w/recipe-book/345/nigerian-hibiscus-pineapple-ginger-turmeric-teaFri, 31 Jul 2026 21:11:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:ba57003a-8286-4bdf-9f7f-e6971e865be3BCBSOK Connect TeamIngredients: Makes 5 serving 2 cups 100% Pineapple Juice 1 oz Fresh Ginger, peeled, sliced 2 oz Fresh Turmeric Root, peeled, sliced 3 cups Water 2 each Cinnamon Sticks 1/2 tsp Whole Cloves 1 oz Hibiscus Flower Directions: In a pot, combine pineapple juice, ginger root, turmeric, water, cinnamon sticks, cloves and dried hibiscus. Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat and allow the tea to cool. For best results, steep for 12 hours before straining through a fine‑mesh strainer. The tea may be served hot or cold. Serving Size: Serving: 8 fluid ounces Nutrition information: Per serving: 60 calories, 0 g fat, 0 g saturated fat, 6 mg sodium, 13 g carbohydrate, 0 g sugar, 0 g fiber, 0 g protein Recipe Source: Recipe provided by FLIK Hospitality GroupHigh blood pressure - Sodium ConsciousHeart Disease - Heart ConsciousGeneral Healthy - Health ConsciousDiabetes/prediabetes - Carb ConsciousBeveragesRecipe BookAfricanhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/help-body-and-mindFri, 31 Jul 2026 14:31:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:5401225a-0ca5-4214-9941-0269e85615ccBCBSOK Connect TeamCan you get more exercise by doing what you already do, without spending extra money or time? Exercise without calling it that? Physical activity without the intimidation factor? Yes. Exercise doesn’t have to be hard, take a long time or cost a lot. And it’s worth the effort. Moving your body can help your physical and mental health. First Steps With the popularity of fitness trackers and apps, many people aim to get more steps each day. Parking farther from the store entrance when you go shopping. Getting up from your desk each hour for a lap around the office. Slapping on the wireless headsets and moving around when you’re on a work call. These are all great ways to move more. To get the most benefit, be sure to walk at a moderate pace or faster for at least part of the time. If you need to get more activity but haven't made it part of your routine yet, remember that some physical activity is better than none. Just trying to do more is a good start. Focus on moving more and sitting less throughout the day. People who sit less and do any amount of moderate to vigorous physical activity gain some health benefits, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services . Adults should aim for moderate aerobic movement for at least 150 minutes each week and strengthening activity twice a week. It’s best to spread your aerobic activity out over the week. Move at Home If you must do chores at home, you might as well be getting some physical benefits for your time and effort. And if you work at it, you can step up the pace and get a little more exercise than you normally would. Activities like vacuuming and scrubbing count as a workout if you raise your heart rate. And get the outdoor chores done and workout at the same time by: Mowing the lawn Weeding the garden Raking grass or leaves Other no-cost exercise you can do close to home includes joining the kids in a game of tag or kickball, taking a family hike or bike ride, or taking a dip in the pool. Finding a walking buddy or joining a walking club can help you stick with your plan to move more. If you like running, there are clubs for that. You can use public courts for basketball or tennis. For a small investment, you can buy some weights to build up your strength. Get an exercise DVD or app to start a fitness routine. Or get a fitness ball to work your core muscles. If you want to save more money, see if you can borrow equipment from a friend. Back to Basics You can tone your muscles with nothing more than your own body weight. Old-school exercises like lunges, squats, crunches and jumping jacks always work. Check out the online exercise library at the American Council on Exercise for exercise ideas and tips for doing things safely. If you do have a gym membership, you can still work out at home when you can’t get there. Try these 25 at-home exercises to keep from losing ground. Get Going Check with your doctor before you start a new fitness routine. But once you get the OK, what are you waiting for? Moving more can help your body and your mind. Remember, when it comes to movement, something is better than nothing. Try these tips to get started. Be prepared to move. Get your shoes and clothes ready. Find a friend to join you. An exercise buddy will keep you motivated. Set small goals. Need More Help? Move Your Way SM is a resource from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to promote physical activity. To help Americans get motivated and make exercise more fun, Move Your Way offers information, videos, an interactive tool and fact sheets for adults and kids. Need some inspiration? Check out these videos: Move Your Way: Tips for Getting Motivated Move Your Way: Tips for Busy Days Ready to get started? Use the interactive tool to build your activity plan. Sources: Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans , U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Move Your Way , DHHS; Exercising on a budget , National Institutes of Health, 2024; Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms , Mayo Clinic, 2023; Role of Physical Activity on Mental Health and Well-Being: A Review , National Library of Medicine, 2023Health and WellnessHealthy MindExerciseHealthy Livinghttps://connect.bcbsok.com/espanol/b/tusalud/posts/ayuda-cuerpo-y-menteFri, 31 Jul 2026 08:29:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:57c53277-eb00-4628-923f-f5a71d5e0756EquipoConnect¿Puedes ejercitarte haciendo lo que ya haces, sin gastar tiempo o dinero extra? ¿Ejercitarte sin llamarle ejercicio? ¿Actividad física sin sentirte intimidado? Sí, sí puedes. El ejercicio no tiene por qué ser algo complicado, algo que tome mucho tiempo o que resulte caro. El esfuerzo vale la pena. El simple hecho de mover el cuerpo puede ayudar a la salud física y mental. Primeros pasos Con la llegada de dispositivos y aplicaciones para medir la actividad física, muchas personas intentan acumular más pasos cada día. Estacionarse lejos de la entrada de los establecimientos cuando sale de compras. Levantarse del escritorio cada hora para darle una vuelta a la oficina. Usar audífonos inalámbricos para tener libertad de movimiento durante llamadas del trabajo. Para sacar el mayor provecho, plantéate caminar a ritmo moderado o rápido por lo menos una parte del tiempo. Algo de actividad física siempre será mejor que no hacer nada. Tratar de hacer algo más es una forma de comenzar. Enfócate en moverte más y estar menos tiempo sentado a lo largo del día. Quienes se sientan menos tiempo y hacen algo de actividad física de manera moderada a vigorosa, consiguen ciertos beneficios para la salud, según el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de EE. UU . Los adultos deben tener como meta realizar unos 150 minutos semanales de actividad aeróbica moderada y dos veces a la semana de actividad de fuerza. Lo mejor es distribuir la actividad aeróbica a lo largo de la semana. Ejercítate en casa Si tienes que hacer las tareas del hogar, puedes aprovechar el tiempo y el esfuerzo para obtener algunos beneficios para la salud. Y si te empeñas en ello, puedes aumentar el ritmo para hacer un poco más de ejercicio de lo que normalmente harías. Actividades como aspirar y restregar cuentan como ejercicio si aceleras el ritmo cardíaco. Por otro lado, puedes hacer las siguientes tareas al aire libre y ejercitarte al mismo tiempo: cortar el césped; arreglar el jardín; rastrillar hojas o hierbas. Otros ejercicios sin costo que puedes hacer cerca de casa son acompañar a los niños a jugar o practicar algún deporte, ir de caminata, a andar en bicicleta o echarte un chapuzón en la piscina con la familia. Juntarte con alguien para ir a caminar o unirte a un club de caminata puede ayudarte con tu plan para continuar ejercitándote. Si te gusta correr, también existen clubs a los cuales puedes unirte. Haz uso de canchas públicas de tenis y baloncesto. Si quieres invertir un poco, puedes comprar unas pesas para aumentar la fortaleza. Consigue un DVD o una aplicación de ejercicios para iniciar una rutina de acondicionamiento físico o consíguete una pelota de estabilidad para trabajar los músculos centrales. Si lo que quieres es ahorrar dinero, puedes pedirle equipo prestado a un amigo. Volvamos a lo básico Tonifica los músculos con el propio peso de tu cuerpo. Los ejercicios básicos siempre funcionan, como hacer zancadas, sentadillas, abdominales y saltos de tijera. Revisa la videoteca digital de ejercicios de American Council on Exercise (consejo estadounidense del ejercicio) donde encontrarás rutinas y consejos de seguridad. Incluso si cuentas con una membresía de gimnasio, puedes hacer ejercicio en casa cuando no puedas ir. Estos 25 ejercicios para hacer en casa te ayudarán a remplazar el trabajo en el gimnasio y te ayudarán a mantenerte tonificado. A comenzar Consulta al médico antes de iniciar una nueva rutina de acondicionamiento físico. Ya tienes la aprobación, ¿qué esperas? Ejercitarte ayudará a tu cuerpo y a tu mente. Recuerda que, si de moverse se trata, un poco de movimiento siempre será mejor que no hacer nada. Inicia poniendo estos consejos en práctica. Prepárate para ejercitarte. Ponte los zapatos y la ropa adecuada. Júntate con un amigo para que te acompañe. Tener a alguien con quien ejercitarte te ayudará a mantenerte motivado. Proponte metas alcanzables. ¿Necesitas más ayuda? El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de EE. UU. pone a tu disposición Move Your Way SM , un recurso para promover la actividad física. En Move Your Way encontrarás información, videos, una herramienta interactiva y hojas informativas para motivar a adultos y a niños y que harán de la actividad física algo más entretenido. ¿Buscas inspiración? Te compartimos estos videos: Move Your Way: Tips for Getting Motivated (en inglés) Move Your Way: Tips for Busy Days (en inglés) ¿Estás listo? Usa la herramienta interactiva para crear tu plan. Fuentes: Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans , U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Move Your Way , DHHS; Exercising on a budget , National Institutes of Health, 2024; Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms , Mayo Clinic, 2023; Role of Physical Activity on Mental Health and Well-Being: A Review , National Library of Medicine, 2023Tu SaludEspañolEjerciciohttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/women-cancer-preventionThu, 30 Jul 2026 22:31:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:7b2aeb37-2bc8-4cc4-86da-6eed385d5da2BCBSOK Connect TeamTaking care of yourself to cut your chances of getting cancer is a great health goal. But how exactly can you do that? Preventive care, including health screenings, is the place to start. The aim is to prevent cancer or find it at an earlier stage, when it is easier to treat. If you catch cancer early, it significantly improves your chances of survival. The cancers that most affect women are breast, colorectal, lung, cervical, endometrial, ovarian and skin. Breast Cancer Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the U.S., not counting skin cancer. It's also the second-leading cause of cancer death, after lung cancer. It can happen at any age, but the risk goes up as you get older. Things like family history can make the risk higher for some women. But every woman should know what they can do to help lower their risk, says the American Cancer Society . What to Do: Having routine screening tests is the best way to find breast cancer early. Talk to your health care provider about breast cancer , your risk factors and your family medical history.  The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women between the ages of 40 and 74 and at average breast cancer risk get a mammogram at least every two years. Lung Cancer Lung cancer is the second most common type of cancer and the leading cause of cancer death in American women. What to Do: If you smoke now, or used to and are over 50, talk to your doctor about screening. Screening for lung cancer can help catch cancer earlier, but it isn’t recommended for everyone. It’s recommended for adults at high risk for getting the disease because of their smoking history and age. Find out more from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . To cut your risk: Skip all types of tobacco. Avoid secondhand smoke. Be aware of cancer-causing chemicals at work and home and avoid them or limit your exposure. Colorectal Cancer Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or the rectum. It usually starts with a polyp, a small growth. Some factors that raise your risk of colon cancer include not being active, eating a lot of processed foods and red meats, and being overweight. Smoking and alcohol use can also raise your risks. People with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps are also at higher risk. What to Do: Talk to your doctor about what type of screening is best for you. Like many other forms of cancer, colon cancer often has no symptoms in its early stage. But when it is caught early, there’s a 90 percent survival rate. Unfortunately, about 1 in 3 Americans who should get tested for colorectal cancer have never been screened. Cervical Cancer Cervical cancer starts in the cells lining the cervix, the lower end of the uterus. Routine screenings and HPV vaccines can prevent it. Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes almost all cervical cancers. It’s a common infection, but most people don't know they have it. Some types of HPV don't go away and can cause cancer. What to Do: Have routine screenings to find pre-cancers and abnormal cells before they become cancerous. And the American Cancer Society recommends that all children between ages 9 and 12 get the HPV vaccination. That’s when the vaccine works best. But the vaccine is still recommended for children and young adults up to age 26. Endometrial Cancer Endometrial cancer occurs in the inner lining of the uterus. The risk increases with age. The American Cancer Society says women should be especially alert to any signs at menopause. What to Do: Know the signs . For women with average risk and no symptoms, there are no recommended screening tests or exams to find endometrial cancer. So it’s important to report any unusual vaginal bleeding or pelvic pain to your doctor. Ovarian Cancer Other than age, the key risk factor for ovarian cancer is a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. Inherited gene changes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 also increase your risk. What to Do: Learn about the risk factors and symptoms of ovarian cancer . And talk to your doctor about any signs you notice. There are no recommended screening tests for women who are not at increased risk of ovarian cancer. If you have an increased risk because of family history, talk to your doctor about tests that might be right for you. Skin Cancer Radiation from the sun causes most skin cancers. It is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. Those with lighter skin are more likely to get skin cancer, but everyone is at risk. Fortunately, it’s easy to prevent and find early. What to Do: Protect your skin from UV exposure and look for changes. Keep track of how all of the moles and spots on your skin normally look. Report any changes to your doctor right away. And ask about having a skin exam done during your regular health checkups. Practice Prevention Thinking about cancer can be stressful. But you can take steps to stay well. Listen to your body. Be sure you have your preventive health care visits . And get your health screenings on time. Sources: Cancer Facts for Women , American Cancer Society, 2026; Screening for Lung Cancer , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2026; Endometrial Cancer , Mayo Clinic, 2025; Signs and Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer , American Cancer Society, 2025; Breast Cancer: Screening , U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, 2024; Screening for Colorectal Cancer , CDC, 2026; Can Colorectal Polyps and Cancer Be Found Early? , American Cancer Society, 2024; Causes, Risk Factors, and Prevention of Ovarian Cancer , American Cancer Society, 2025Health and WellnessWomen’s HealthCancerPreventive CareCancer preventionhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/benefits-of-strength-trainingThu, 30 Jul 2026 22:30:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:105e02c5-0c76-445f-b028-8092ac3f45a3BCBSOK Connect TeamNew research says strength training may help people live longer. While that likelihood requires more study, there is solid proof that building your muscles can help your body and overall health. We already know that muscle-strengthening effort is good for our health in more ways than just making us strong. It can help improve some health issues, like high blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and it can help lower our risk for other health problems. A large-scale study that pooled together and analyzed findings from several previous studies found that muscle-strengthening exercise may also lower our risk for death overall. The study looked at how exercise affects health, including the effects of different types and amounts of exercise. Overall, the study found that 30 to 60 minutes of muscle-strengthening activity each week cuts the risk of death from diseases like cardiovascular disease and cancer. The reason for this effect is not yet well understood, and more research is needed. But there is clear evidence that all physical activity boosts health and wellbeing, says the World Health Organization . It helps prevent and manage disease, decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety, and supports thinking and learning. Benefits of Building Muscles Doing muscle-building workouts, also called strength training, resistance training or weight training, brings many benefits. It makes muscles stronger, but it’s not just done to build big muscles. The goal is to maintain or improve your quality of life. Strength training: Helps keep your bones healthy. Boosts your body’s ability to process food. Increases your body’s resistance to diabetes and related diseases. As part of a broader fitness program, strength training may also help you: Manage your weight. Increased lean muscle mass can help you lose weight by raising your metabolism so you burn more calories. Better control chronic health problems. Strength training can lessen the symptoms of health issues like arthritis, back pain, obesity, heart disease, depression and diabetes. Sharpen your thinking skills. Some research suggests that routine strength training and aerobic exercise may help improve thinking and learning skills for older adults. Continuing to build strong muscles is especially important as we age. Body fat percentage will grow if you don't do anything to replace the lean muscle you lose over time. And that loss of lean muscle mass can also increase your risk for falls, says the National Institutes of Health . Strength training can help you keep and add to your muscle mass at any age. Getting Started It’s recommended that adults do strength training for all major muscle groups twice a week . What fits the bill? Weightlifting Push-ups, sit-ups and other exercises using your body weight for resistance Some types of yoga Resistance training like Pilates Starting strength training isn’t as easy as just adding exercise by walking farther each day. It’s vital to learn how to do it the right way. That might mean signing up for a few lessons with a personal trainer or taking a class for guidance. Some options for where to learn how to safely build muscle include gyms or a recreation, senior or community center. Finding a setting you find comfortable can help you stick with it. Once you know how to safely do strength training exercises, you can even work out at home. Talk to your doctor before starting any new training, especially if you haven’t lifted weights before. Listen to their advice. Start slow, but get started. Sources: Physical Activity Basics and Your Health , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2025; Relationship Between Muscle-Strengthening Activity and Cause-Specific Mortality in a Large US Cohort , National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, 2020; Physical Activity , World Health Organization, 2024; Evidence mounts on the benefits of strength training , Harvard School of Public Health, 2022; Strength training: Get stronger, leaner, healthier , Mayo Clinic, 2026Health and WellnessWeight ManagementExerciseHealthy AgingHealthy Livinghttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/talk-about-suicideThu, 30 Jul 2026 18:29:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:1b6bf748-542b-4fb5-a8ee-bd97b9b1311cBCBSOK Connect TeamTalking about suicide can play an important role in helping prevent it. But it’s vital to know what to say. We can all help prevent suicide, says 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline . This national network of local crisis centers wants everyone to know that suicide is not inevitable for anyone. Many more people attempt suicide than die from it. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) says that supports the idea that many who try suicide want their pain to end, not their life. To help someone who is thinking about suicide, the key message has three parts: hope, healing and help . So how can you help? Recognizing Who’s at Risk Most people thinking about suicide give some sign of their intentions. Learning the warning signs is essential to recognizing people who may be at risk. Some of the major warning signs are: Talking about suicide or death Looking for ways to kill oneself Feelings of anger and despair Big shifts in mood, eating or sleep patterns Other risk factors include: Earlier suicide attempts or self-harm, such as cutting (but not everyone who self-harms is suicidal) History of suicide in family Substance misuse Mood problems like depression and bipolar disorder Facing bullying, trauma or abuse Long-term sickness or pain Loneliness Access to unsecured prescription medicines or guns Helping in Times of Crisis Speak Up Many people think that mentioning suicide to someone who may be at risk may be planting the idea of suicide. But that isn’t true. Openly expressing your concerns is an important way to help. It shows you care and want to understand. Don’t be afraid to ask, “Are you having thoughts of suicide?” If the answer is yes, stay with them. Text or call 988, the three-digit dialing code connecting people to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline . Care for veterans is also available at 988. Learn What to Say to Help To help someone who is struggling, learn ways you can talk to them openly and with empathy, says the National Child Traumatic Stress Network . Ask if they’d like to talk, and really listen without judging. Ask what would help them right then, without giving possible solutions. The key is to be there and then follow up, which often means helping them reach out to mental health care providers. Encourage them to keep visits with those doctors and to continue with medicines or other treatments. Friends and family can also take steps to make a safe place for someone who is at risk and learn how they might step in during a crisis , says the American Psychological Association. Long-Term Support Build Social Ties Being closely linked to family and community support may decrease someone’s suicidal thoughts and actions, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . Everyone can help support others. Build family resiliency by: Helping children learn coping and problem-solving skills Supporting programs that teach social skills Boosting ties to friends, family and community Working on communication skills to improve relationships Encourage Mental Health Care Getting mental health care saves lives. If you know someone who is struggling, encourage them to reach out to their doctor for care. You could even show support by helping them schedule and get to that visit. Talk About It Talking about suicide is also a step toward decreasing the stigma tied to it. Stigma leads to silence, which does not help those touched by the loss. It can leave people feeling alone when facing the tragedy. When someone dies by suicide, there is a chance to talk about suicide as a health issue that affects everyone , says NAMI. Take Action Remember, if you or a loved one is having thoughts of harming themselves now, get help right away . You can call or text 988 or visit 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline . Sources: Promote Hope, Healing and Help to Prevent Suicide , National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 2016; Suicide and PTSD , U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2026; Suicide Data and Statistics , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2026; Suicide and suicide prevention , American Psychological Association; Words to Use When Talking about Suicide , National Child Traumatic Stress Network, 2021; The Ripple Effect of Suicide , NAMI, 2018; 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline , U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA); Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors among Adults , SAMHSA, 2022; Talking to teens: Suicide prevention , American Psychological Association, 2024Health and WellnessUnderstanding Behavioral HealthMental HealthDepressionBehavioral Healthhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/what-do-we-know-now-about-autismThu, 30 Jul 2026 15:27:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:89d7c385-9963-4fff-b058-f145e6cdfd4aBCBSOK Connect TeamParenting means helping your children grow, develop and navigate the world. It’s no different for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Yet they face a unique set of challenges. Taking action early can make a real difference in navigating those challenges. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that about 3 percent of 8-year-olds in the U.S. have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder . ASD is over three times more common among boys than girls. What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder? ASD is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. People with ASD may act, talk, socialize and learn in ways that are different from most other people. The abilities of people with ASD can vary a lot. For example, someone with ASD might have strong communication skills, while someone else might be nonverbal. One person might need help with everyday activities. Another might live, work and go to school with little to no support. Signs and Symptoms of ASD Trouble connecting with others is one of the hallmarks of ASD. This includes social interaction and communication. Even those who do speak often struggle to understand others and make themselves understood. Children with ASD may: Engage in repetitive behaviors or interests. Fail to make eye contact. Not respond to their names. Play with toys in unusual or repetitive ways. Be extra sensitive to loud noises, bright lights or strong smells. Have uncommon eating or sleeping habits. Although ASD appears to be tied to very early brain development, most signs and symptoms tend to appear between the ages of 2 and 3. Other symptoms can appear earlier. The CDC provides examples of communication and interaction traits related to ASD at different stages of a child’s early development. Importance of Early Screening, Diagnosis and Intervention Research shows that early diagnosis and intervention for children with ASD can make a big difference in their development. It can lead to major long-term positive effects on symptoms and skills later in life. Early interventions can occur at 2 or 3 years old, says the CDC. A young child's brain is still forming, meaning it is more "plastic" or changeable than at older ages. Because of this plasticity, treatments have a better chance of being effective in the longer term. Parents are often the first to notice their child showing unusual behaviors. You should monitor your child’s development and see if they are meeting important milestones in playing, learning, speaking, behaving and moving. Check the CDC's Developmental Milestones to see what signs may appear at specific ages. If you notice your child is not meeting milestones or have other concerns, talk with your pediatrician and ask about developmental screening. Developmental screening takes a closer look at how your child is developing. Your child will get a brief test, or you will fill out a questionnaire about your child. These are formal tools based on research. The screening can be done by a doctor or other health care professional, an early childhood educator, or in a school or community setting. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screening every child for ASD during regular well-child visits at 18 and 24 months. If your pediatrician doesn’t screen your child, you can ask for screening. ASD and Mental Health Disorders When a child or adolescent shows signs of conditions such as anxiety, depression or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), it may alert a health care provider to screen for ASD. That’s because these conditions occur more often in people with ASD than in people without, says the CDC. ASD can also share similar symptoms or signs with mental and medical health conditions. It can be hard to distinguish between them. That’s why it is so important to have open communication with your child’s doctor if your child is having social, behavioral or learning challenges. That will help make sure your child gets the right screening and support. What Causes Autism Spectrum Disorder? There is no one cause of ASD. Several different factors have been identified that may make a person more likely to have ASD, including environmental, biological and genetic factors, says the CDC. There is still a lot to learn about specific causes, but current evidence suggests the following things may put a person at greater risk for ASD: Having a sibling with ASD Having certain genetic or chromosomal conditions, such as fragile X syndrome or tuberous sclerosis Experiencing complications at birth Being born to older parents While there have been concerns that some vaccines may contribute to autism, numerous studies around the globe have concluded that there is no relationship between the two. Treatment and Intervention Options for ASD Current treatments aim to lessen symptoms that can hinder daily functioning and quality of life. ASD affects each person differently, so each person has unique strengths, challenges and treatment needs. Treatments fall into the following categories , though some treatment plans involve more than one approach: Behavioral treatment uses tools based on the science of learning and behavior. It produces noticeable changes in skills and behavior. Developmental treatment includes physical, speech and occupational therapies. Educational approaches include school-based services, such as a 504 Plan, through a local school system when age-appropriate. Social-relational treatment focuses on improving social skills and building emotional bonds. Medicine may be helpful, especially in cases where a child also has a mental health diagnosis such as ADHD, anxiety and/or depression. Psychological approaches can help people with ASD deal with anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. This may include cognitive behavioral therapy. Finding Support and Resources for ASD Early intervention can make school and life easier for most kids with autism. Contact your child’s doctor to discuss the screening options available. You may also ask your doctor for a referral to a specialist who can do a more in-depth evaluation of your child. These specialists may include a developmental pediatrician, child neurologist, child psychologist or psychiatrist to guide your child’s treatment. There are also many resources available to parents. Free Evaluations You can request a free evaluation from your state’s public early childhood system . If your child is under 3 years old: Contact your local early intervention system. You can find the contact information for your state through the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (ECTA). Visit the ECTA website . If your child is 3 years old or older: Contact your local public school system. Even if your child is not yet enrolled in kindergarten, you can ask to have your child evaluated. If you’re not sure who to contact, call ECTA. Additional support resources for families may include: Autism Speaks Resource Guide Medicaid waiver programs State-specific resources, such as state departments for early intervention and developmental disabilities Other local resources such as Autism Resource Centers, Easter Seals and Special Olympics If you have a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma health plan, you may also have resources available as part of your benefits. To find providers and check for additional resources, log in to your member account, go to Find Care , then select Behavioral Health. Then look for Additional Programs and select Autism Spectrum . Early diagnosis and intervention are key to helping your child reach full potential. If you think your child might be on the autism spectrum, work with your doctor, state and/or school and community to find the right resources. Sources: Autism Spectrum Disorder , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Autism Spectrum Disorder , National Institutes of Health, 2024; Signs and Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder , CDC, 2024; CDC’s Developmental Milestones, CDC, 2026; Do vaccines cause autism? , Autism Speaks; Treatment and Intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder , CDC, 2024; Early Intervention , CDC, 2026; Accessing Services for Autism Spectrum Disorder , CDC, 2025; Resource Guide , Autism Speaks; Data and Statistics on Autism Spectrum Disorder , CDC, 2025; Developmental Monitoring and Screening , CDC, 2026; About Fragile X Syndrome , CDC, 2026; Tuberous Sclerosis Complex , National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, 2026; Early intervention for Autism , National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, 2021Health and WellnessAutismChildren’s Healthhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/espanol/b/tusalud/posts/combata-la-gripe-vacuneseThu, 30 Jul 2026 15:01:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:6f463797-748e-4cf9-893f-9a71d82b20e4EquipoConnectMuchas personas no saben que pueden contraer influenza, la enfermedad respiratoria que a menudo llamamos "gripe", en cualquier época del año. Los virus de la gripe suelen alcanzar su punto máximo entre diciembre y febrero . Pero los casos de gripe generalmente comienzan a aumentar en octubre o antes. Para estar protegido antes de que los casos de gripe comiencen a aumentar, vacúnate contra la gripe tan pronto como esté disponible la vacuna en tu área. La gripe mata a miles de personas cada año y envía a cientos de miles de personas más al hospital. Es por eso que los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC, en inglés) indican que la mayoría de las personas a partir de los seis meses deben vacunarse anualmente contra la gripe. Hay muchas razones por las que este es un buen consejo. Puedes contraer la enfermedad de alguien que no sabe que la tiene y no tiene ningún síntoma. Y evitar las dos a tres semanas de fiebre y los fuertes dolores de cabeza, musculares y otros dolores que algunas personas padecerán este invierno hace que la vacuna contra la gripe valga la pena. Tu decisión de ponerte la vacuna inyectable también ayudará a proteger a otros miembros de tu comunidad. Eso incluye a personas mayores, niños y embarazadas. También incluye a personas de todas las edades que tienen problemas de salud como asma o diabetes. Todos ellos son los que tienen el mayor riesgo de desarrollar complicaciones graves, incluso poner en riesgo la vida, si contraen la enfermedad. Cómo prepararte para la temporada de gripe Al igual que en años anteriores, los investigadores han actualizado la vacuna. Esto debe hacerse para protegerte de las cepas de gripe que ellos creen que serán las más comunes durante la próxima temporada de gripe. El resultado es una vacuna eficaz que puedes obtener mediante tu profesional médico o una farmacia local a un costo bajo o gratuitamente. En muchos casos, los hospitales cercanos o los lugares de trabajo también ofrecen vacunas contra la gripe. La vacuna puede causar una reacción, pero casi siempre es leve. Es posible que presente enrojecimiento, dolor e hinchazón en el lugar de la inyección o incluso fiebre breve. Puedes aliviar estos dolores con un analgésico de venta libre. Ten en cuenta que la vacuna tarda aproximadamente dos semanas en comenzar a protegerte. Es por eso que no debes esperar hasta que la temporada de la gripe alcance su pico máximo para vacunarte. Vacúnate en cuanto la vacuna esté disponible en tu área. Los CDC recomiendan vacunarse a finales de octubre. ¿Qué sucede si contraes gripe a pesar de estar vacunado? Puedes contraer la gripe incluso si te vacunas contra la gripe, pero a menudo es más leve que si no hubieras recibido la vacuna. Si tu o un miembro de la familia se enferma, recuerda estos consejos: Quédate en casa y no asistas al trabajo o la escuela durante al menos 24 horas y hasta que la fiebre desaparezca sin un medicamento para reducirla. Descansa lo suficiente. Utiliza medicamentos de venta libre para calmar los síntomas. Habla con tu médico sobre el cuidado de los niños pequeños. No lo pospongas No dejes de vacunarte contra la gripe porque te vacunaste el año pasado o porque no tienes tiempo. Tardarás mucho menos tiempo en vacunarte comparado con el tiempo que pasarás recuperándote de la gripe. Planifica vacunarte en cuanto esté disponible la vacuna para que estés protegido antes de que llegue la temporada alta. Fuentes: About Influenza , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2026; Flu Season , CDC, 2025; 2026-2027 Flu Season , CDC, 2026; Preventing Seasonal Flu , CDC, 2025Tu SaludEspañolVacunasPrevención de la gripeLa gripehttps://connect.bcbsok.com/my-coverage-explained/b/weblog/posts/pharmacy-benefit-vs-medical-benefitThu, 30 Jul 2026 15:00:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:8a0522f1-d0aa-4687-b50e-fd413d96eabcBCBSOK Connect TeamIt’s no secret that prescription drugs can be pricey. One of the best ways to save on the drugs you are prescribed is to make sure you understand how your health plan benefits work. A good place to start is to answer this question: Is my prescription drug a pharmacy or medical benefit? In most cases, a prescription drug is covered under your pharmacy benefit . There are times, though, when a prescription drug is considered a medical benefit . Here is a breakdown to help you understand which is which. Drugs That Fall Under Your Pharmacy Benefit Think about the common medicines you pick up at your local drugstore or have delivered to your home. Drugs that help keep your blood pressure or cholesterol in check. The cream your dermatologist gave you for that itchy rash. Antibiotics for a sinus infection. Or insulin to manage your diabetes. These are just a few examples of prescription medicines you may take that may be part of your pharmacy benefit. Drugs That Are a Medical Benefit Sometimes, medicines must be given by a care provider in a health care setting. Birth control implants are one example. So are chemotherapy infusions for cancer and immunotherapy for complex and chronic diseases. These types of medicines usually require patients to be monitored by a medical professional during their treatment. Your medical benefit may cover the costs of these drugs and their administration. Some Drugs Can Be Both Vaccines given as part of preventive health care can be either a pharmacy benefit or a medical benefit. A flu shot is the most common example. Did you go to your local retail pharmacy for your flu shot? Or did your primary care provider give you a flu shot during your annual wellness check? The benefit category for the vaccine depends on your health plan and where you got it. Of course, understanding the details of your Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma plan is one of the best ways to get the most out of your pharmacy benefit. Here are some things you can do: Check Your Plan’s Drug List The list is exactly what the name suggests — a list of prescription drugs covered by your health care plan. The list is organized into different levels of coverage called member payment tiers. Some plans may have up to six tiers. Each tier has its own cost. The lower the tier, the lower your out-of-pocket costs will be for the drug. Generic drugs are usually found in the lower tier. Name brand drugs and specialty drugs are often in higher tiers. You may pay more for a brand name drug if you choose the brand name drug when a generic equivalent is available. Talk with your doctor and pharmacist about all your medicines. Always check to see if they are covered under your health care plan. For any name-brand drug, ask if there are generics or lower-cost options you can take. If your drug isn’t covered on your drug list, ask if there are other covered drugs or treatments that meet your needs. To check your drug list, log in to your member account online or through the BCBSOK App . Be In-the-Know About In-Network Pharmacies BCBSOK works with a broad network of pharmacies. When you use an in-network pharmacy, your out-of-pocket costs are often less. You may also be able to get up to a 90-day supply of covered drugs you use regularly . Understand Special Requirements and Limits Sometimes, you may need to meet certain criteria before your prescription drug coverage is approved. Members who use a specialty drug to treat a complex or rare condition may need to follow specialty pharmacy program guidelines. Some drugs may have limits on how much medicine can be dispensed per prescription or in a given time span. Your doctor may need to get prior authorization before your drug is covered. You might need to use step therapy , which means you must try a more cost-effective drug first before moving to another higher cost drug. To review your pharmacy benefits, you can: Log in to your online member account or the BCBSOK App to see in-network pharmacies, get cost and coverage information, check refills and more. Call BCBSOK customer service at the number on your member ID card. Prime Therapeutics LLC is a separate company contracted by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma to provide pharmacy solutions. BCBSOK, as well as several independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans, has an ownership interest in Prime Therapeutics.PrescriptionsIn-NetworkDrug ListGeneric DrugsPharmacyBenefits and CoveragePharmacy Benefitshttps://connect.bcbsok.com/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/medical-dental-vision-choosing-plan-typeThu, 30 Jul 2026 14:53:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:35915912-b531-409f-94d5-cc5c87bea0dbBCBSOK Connect TeamThis article is intended for members enrolled in an individual health insurance plan through the health insurance marketplace (not those who have coverage through an employer). Regular medical and dental care are important for your total health. That’s why it’s good to have both kinds of insurance. Many people buy medical coverage on its own. You may want to consider getting dental coverage as well as health care coverage. What Does a Dental Plan Cover? Dental benefits for BCBSOK individual health plan members who also choose a dental plan may include savings on preventive checkups, cleanings and basic x-rays. You may also save on fillings, bridges, crowns and other dental work. If you don't already have dental coverage, be sure to check the coverage details for a plan before you choose one. Not all dental plans are the same. Get more information about our individual and family dental plans . To enroll in a dental plan during Open Enrollment, Nov. 1, 2026, though Jan. 15, 2027, contact your independent, authorized agent or go to bcbsok.com . Already Have Dental Coverage with Us? You make the most of your health care benefits when you use providers who are in your health plan's network. The same is true for dental coverage. Try to use in-network dentists. In-network dentists are those how have a contract with BCBSOK. You can look up dentists in the BCBSOK network by l ogging in to your online member account and go to Find Care . What’s the Deal with Discounts? As a BCBSOK member, you also have discounts through Blue365 SM . This health and wellness discount program offers deals in several categories, including hearing, vision and dental products and services. Deals change often, so if you see one you like, don’t wait to take advantage of it. Blue365 is a discount program only for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma members. This is NOT insurance. Some of the services offered through this program may be covered under your health plan. You should check your benefit booklet or call the Customer Service number on your member ID card for specific benefit facts. Use of Blue365 does not change monthly payments, nor do costs of the services or products count toward any maximums and/or plan deductibles. Discounts are only given through vendors that take part in this program. BCBSOK does not guarantee or make any claims or recommendations about the program’s services or products. You should consult your doctor before using these services and products. BCBSOK reserves the right to stop or change this program at any time without notice.Eye HealthGetting Health InsuranceDental HealthOpen EnrollmentHealth Care Coveragehttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/4-steps-whole-body-fitnessThu, 30 Jul 2026 14:13:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:6d724eaa-60ef-4e75-8cb3-d9ed34407bc0BCBSOK Connect TeamMost people focus on one or two types of exercise and think they’re getting what their body needs. But there are four types of exercise you need to help your body function at its best: endurance, strength, balance and flexibility. Many people already know they need endurance, or aerobic, activity and strength training. But flexibility and balance are important, too, especially as you age. And each of these important building blocks of fitness has its own benefits . Each kind also improves your ability to do the other types, as well as all of your everyday activities. And doing all four types of movement not only keeps your body functioning at its best, it can also help you avoid injuries and getting bored with exercise. Balance Better balance becomes more important as people age, but it’s helpful for everyone. Balance training should be a part of your normal routine. Most activities that are done on your feet and moving, like walking, can help your balance. But specific exercises can help even more. Boost your stability by regularly: Balancing on one foot every so often while you're standing Shifting weight from one foot to another Standing up from a seated position without using your hands Walking in a line, heel to toe, for a short distance When you’re ready for more, try these balance exercises suggested by the Mayo Clinic. Flexibility Flexibility exercise, or stretching, goes hand-in-hand with strength, balance and endurance training. Flexibility focused movements stretch your muscles and can help your body move more easily. Being more flexible can help you with your everyday activities and can help you avoid injury and pain. Focusing on flexibility is especially important as we age, since our muscles shorten and don’t work as well. But it’s helpful for everyone, and it’s never too soon to start focusing on flexibility. It’s important to stretch your body the right way to get the most benefit and avoid injury. And if you’re already recovering from an injury, be sure to ask your doctor what stretching activity is safe for you. In general, aim to stretch at least three or four times a week. But you can stretch every day. There’s no need to take days off between sessions. The American Heart Association says the best time to stretch is when your body is already warmed up. If you’re doing other activities like endurance or strengthening, stretch afterward. If you’re just stretching, be sure to warm up your body first with a few minutes of gentle movement, like marching in place. For most stretches, hold the position for 10 to 30 seconds. If you’re just starting out, aim for 10 seconds and work up to longer stretches. Repeat each stretch three to five times per session. A good stretch is slow and smooth: Breath normally and stay relaxed. Don’t bounce. Keep your joints bent, not locked. Stretching should not hurt. You might feel a mild pull, but don’t push it past that. As you become more flexible, you can try reaching a bit farther. There are many types of stretching you can do, depending on your level of flexibility and goals. There are basic stretches that are good for most healthy adults. There are some that are especially helpful for older people . And there are stretches you can do to prepare for specific sports and activities, like running . There are even stretches you can do before you get out of bed . Activities like yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates include many different stretches in a typical session. And they have the added bonus of improving your balance and strength, too. Endurance Endurance activity, also called aerobic exercise, is any physical activity that uses your body’s large muscle groups and is rhythmic and repetitive. It increases your heart rate and how much oxygen your body uses. Aerobic exercise helps your whole body in many ways. It strengthens your bones and muscles. It helps your heart and brain work better. And it helps lower your risk of serious diseases, like heart disease, stroke and diabetes. It also improves your ability to do daily activities. Aerobic activity can be done at a variety of levels of intensity. Intensity is how hard your body is working during activity. It’s recommended that you get at least 150 minutes of medium intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week. You can spread that time out throughout the week. For example, you can take a brisk 30-minute walk five days a week. There are many kinds of aerobic activity — everything from walking, mowing the lawn and dancing to swimming, running and cycling. The CDC offers tips for getting started and ways to get past common barriers that may be keeping you from being more active. If you haven’t been exercising, start slow. And remember that aerobic activity should not cause dizziness or pain . If you’re new to aerobic activity or haven’t done it in a while, talk to your health care provider before you get started. They can help make sure you’re doing the activities that are safe for you. Strength Activity to strengthen your muscles and increase muscle mass helps you stay strong for all of the things you do in your daily life. It improves your balance, which helps you avoid injury. And it helps keep your bones healthy. It can also increase your resistance to disease and help better manage chronic health issues like arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and depression. It may even help you live longer. It’s recommended that adults do strength training for all major muscle groups twice a week . Some examples include: Weightlifting Push-ups, sit-ups and other exercises using your body weight for resistance Some types of yoga Resistance training like Pilates As with the other types of activity, you should start slow and stay safe. To prevent injury, it’s important to learn how to do strength training the right way. That might mean signing up for a few lessons with a personal trainer or taking a class for guidance. Some other options for where to learn how to safely build muscle include gyms or a recreation, senior or community center. Once you know how to do strength training safely, you have a lot of options for what you can do, how you do it and where. You can do strength training alone, with friends or as part of a group class. It can be done at home, at the gym, at a community center or outdoors. You can do it with no equipment using your own body weight, or with simple, inexpensive weights or resistance bands. Or you can work with specialized equipment at the gym or a Pilates studio. Get Started No matter your age or how fit you are, you can find activities that meet your fitness level and needs. It doesn’t have to take a lot of time , money or special equipment. Get tips for children, seniors and people with physical challenges or health issues from Move Your Way . If you’re new to a type of activity, start slow and make sure you stay safe. And don’t forget to check in with your doctor if you’re not already active and planning to start a new exercise routine. Sources: Balance Exercises , Mayo Clinic, 2024; Flexibility Exercise (Stretching) , American Heart Association, 2024; Three Types of Exercise Can Improve Your Health and Physical Ability , National Institute on Aging, 2025; Health Benefits of Exercise and Physical Activity , National Institute on Aging, 2025; Move Your Way , U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2026; The 4 most important types of exercise , Harvard Health Publishing, 2026; What You Can Do to Meet Physical Activity Recommendations , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2025; Steps for Getting Started With Physical Activity , CDC, 2025; Benefits of Physical Activity , CDC, 2025; Adult Activity: An Overview , CDC, 2023Health and WellnessWeight ManagementExerciseHealthy AgingHealthy Livinghttps://connect.bcbsok.com/espanol/b/tucobertura/posts/cobertura-para-medicamentos-o-cobertura-medicaThu, 30 Jul 2026 13:44:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:860e0f9d-d98a-4a04-b3b2-3e4e7457c88fEquipoConnectEs un hecho que los medicamentos recetados pueden ser costosos. Una de las mejores maneras de ahorrar en los medicamentos recetados es asegurarte de que entiendas cómo funcionan los beneficios de tu cobertura médica. Un buen primer paso es responder a esta pregunta: ¿Mis medicamentos recetados están incluidos en la cobertura para medicamentos o en la cobertura médica? En la mayoría de los casos, los medicamentos recetados están incluidos en la cobertura para medicamentos . Sin embargo, hay casos en los que estos están incluidos en la cobertura médica . A continuación, te explicamos cómo funcionan con el fin de ayudarte a entender la diferencia entre los dos tipos de coberturas. Medicamentos incluidos en la cobertura para medicamentos Piensa en los medicamentos comunes que normalmente compras en la farmacia local o que has recibido por medio del servicio de entrega a domicilio. Por ejemplo, los medicamentos que ayudan a mantener la presión arterial o el colesterol bajo control; la crema que el dermatólogo te recetó para el sarpullido que te causaba picazón; los antibióticos para una infección sinusal; o la insulina para controlar la diabetes. Estos son solo algunos ejemplos de los medicamentos recetados que te puedes autoadministrar y que también pueden estar incluidos en la cobertura para medicamentos. Medicamentos incluidos en la cobertura médica A veces algunos medicamentos deben ser administrados por un prestador de servicios médicos en un centro médico. Por ejemplo, los implantes anticonceptivos y las infusiones de quimioterapia para el cáncer y la inmunoterapia para tratar enfermedades complejas y crónicas. Por lo general, al usar estos tipos de medicamentos, al profesional médico se le requiere supervisar a los pacientes durante el tratamiento. Es posible que tu cobertura médica cubra el costo de los medicamentos y la administración. Algunos medicamentos pueden estar incluidos en ambos tipos de coberturas Las vacunas que se administran como parte de la atención médica preventiva pueden estar incluidas tanto en la cobertura para medicamentos como en la cobertura médica. La vacuna contra la gripe es la más común, ya que su clasificación depende de tu seguro médico y del lugar al que vayas para recibirla. ¿Fuiste a la farmacia local para vacunarte o te la administraron durante tu chequeo anual de bienestar? Los detalles determinan cuál de las dos coberturas pagará por la vacuna. Por supuesto, entender los detalles de tu cobertura de Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma (BCBSOK) es una de las mejores maneras de aprovechar al máximo la cobertura para medicamentos. A continuación, te damos unas recomendaciones. Consulta la lista de medicamentos de tu cobertura médica La lista enumera los medicamentos recetados que están incluidos en tu cobertura médica. La lista está organizada en diferentes niveles de cobertura que se conocen como niveles de pago del asegurado. Algunas coberturas pueden tener cuatro niveles; mientras que otras, hasta seis. Cada nivel tiene su propio costo. Cuanto más bajo sea el nivel, más bajos serán los gastos de bolsillo por los medicamentos. Por lo general, los medicamentos genéricos se encuentran en el nivel inferior, mientras que los medicamentos de marcas reconocidas y los medicamentos especializados suelen estar en los niveles más altos. Es posible que pagues más por los medicamentos de marca si hay medicamentos genéricos equivalentes disponibles. Habla con tu médico y farmacéutico sobre todos los medicamentos que usas y asegúrate de que estén incluidos en tu cobertura médica. Pregunta si hay algún medicamento genérico u otra alternativa de menor costo que puedas usar en lugar de los medicamentos de marca que usas. Si no están incluidos en la lista, pregunta si hay otras opciones con cobertura. Puedes consultar la lista de iniciando sesión en tu cuenta de asegurado e costo nuestra aplicación móvil BCBSOK . Infórmate sobre las farmacias de la red BCBSOK colabora con una amplia red de farmacias. Cuando acudes a una farmacia que forma parte de la red, los gastos de bolsillo suelen ser menores. También es posible que obtengas un suministro de hasta 90 días de los medicamentos con cobertura que usas regularmente. Cumple con los requisitos especiales y los límites A veces es posible que se requiera cumplir con ciertos criterios antes de que se apruebe la cobertura para medicamentos recetados. Los asegurados que usan medicamentos especializados para tratar una enfermedad compleja o rara deben cumplir con las normas del programa de medicamentos especializados . Algunos medicamentos pueden tener límites en la cantidad que se puede distribuir por cada receta médica o en un período de tiempo determinado. Tu médico debe solicitar una autorización previa antes de que los medicamentos tengan cobertura. Es posible que necesites usar la terapia escalonada , lo cual significa que debes probar un medicamento más económico primero antes de avanzar con otro medicamento de costo más alto. Para consultar tu cobertura para medicamentos, puedes hacer lo siguiente: Inicia sesión en tu cuenta de asegurado en la aplicación BCBSOK o en español.bcbsok.com para ver las farmacias de la red, informarte sobre los costos y los servicios incluidos, revisar medicamentos que se vuelven a surtir, entre otros. Llama a Servicio al Cliente de BCBSOK al número en tu tarjeta de asegurado. Prime Therapeutics LLC es una compañía aparte contratada por Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma para proporcionar soluciones farmacéuticas. Tanto BCBSOK como varias entidades Blue Cross and Blue Shield independientes tienen interés de propiedad en Prime Therapeutics.Receta MédicaEspañolLista de medicamentosBeneficios de FarmaciaTu Coberturafarmacia