Blueprint magazine-SPRING 2021 issue

A publication for the policyholders of the Arkansas 

Blue Cross and Blue Shield family of companies SPRING 2021 

Vaccinate the 

Natural State 

PAGE 4 

A talk with 

Dr. Nash 

PAGE 6 

Special COVID-19 

vaccination section 

PAGES 9-16 

Care has no 

boundaries 

PAGE 18

a 

Word 

with Curtis Barnett 

Our President and 

Chief Executive Officer 

SPRING 2021 

Vaccines: A step toward “normal” 

We’ve all been anxiously awaiting 

the end of the COVID-19 pandemic … 

and a return to “normal” life. 

And now we have entered an 

incredibly hopeful – and vitally 

important – stage of our journey out 

of this historic public health crisis. 

Our hope is fueled by the longanticipated 

deployment of new 

COVID-19 vaccines that are both 

safe and effective. 

Vaccines are marvels of medical 

science, but they cannot work 

unless enough of us do our part 

and accept them. 

As a company whose primary 

concern is the health and wellbeing 

of our members and our 

communities, Arkansas Blue 

Cross and Blue Shield is committing 

substantial effort and resources 

to help keep people safe and work 

to end the pandemic. 

We’re in the process of ramping up 

internal and external initiatives to 

encourage people to accept the vaccine 

as soon as it’s their turn. We are: 

• Working with partners throughout 

Arkansas to produce a multifaceted 

grassroots outreach 

and communications initiative 

– “Vaccinate the Natural State” – 

about COVID-19 vaccines. 

• In partnership with the Arkansas 

State Chamber of Commerce/ 

Associated Industries of Arkansas 

and the Arkansas Foundation for 

Medical Care, Northwest Arkansas 

Council and Walmart, we are reaching 

out to employers to help prepare them 

for getting employees vaccinated and 

returning to the workplace. 

• Focusing on underserved 

populations in our state (like the 

African American, Latinx, Pacific 

Islander and rural communities), 

we are working with the Arkansas 

Minority Health Commission, the 

Northwest Arkansas Council and 

UAMS to address some culturespecific 

hesitancies, fears and 

misperceptions; ensure ready 

access to the vaccines; and 

promote vaccination. 

• Assisting in facilitating 

and promoting COVID-19 

vaccination events statewide. 

There are lots of different views 

on COVID-19 vaccination. And it’s 

understandable that some people 

may be confused or conflicted. 

But for me, it’s simple: It’s about 

family and the preciousness of life. 

My greatest pandemic fear has 

been the possibility of infecting 

my 81-year-old mother, who 

already suffers with heart and lung 

conditions. I’m going to do my 

best to avoid that tragic scenario 

by staying safe … and getting the 

vaccine as soon as I can. 

Vaccination protects my family, 

supports the valiant efforts of our 

heroic healthcare workers and 

scientists and honors the memory of 

those who have fallen to COVID-19. 

It would be a shame to let vaccine 

fear, mistrust and misinformation 

allow the pandemic to rage on and 

claim even more lives. 

So let’s all do our part by washing 

our hands, watching our distance, 

wearing a mask … and getting the 

vaccine as soon as it’s our turn. 

EDITOR 

Jennifer Bridgeman 

Editor@arkbluecross.com 

DESIGNER 

Ryan Kravitz 

PHOTOGRAPHERS 

Chip Bayer 

David Lewis 

CONTRIBUTORS 

Chip Bayer 

Katie Eisenhower 

Suzi Parker 

Greg Russell 

Marie Trotter 

VICE PRESIDENT 

of CORPORATE 

MARKETING 

Alison Melson 

MEDICAL 

REVIEWERS 

Mark Jansen, M.D., 

vice president and 

chief medical officer 

Creshelle Nash, M.D., 

medical director for 

Public Programs 

NOTE: Read about the entire effort and a listing of all partners on pages 4-5. 

2 SPRING 2021

Overdoses up amid pandemic 

Help is available 

While the 

United States 

has been battling a global 

pandemic, a drug epidemic 

continues to silently rage 

through the country. 

More than 81,000 drug 

overdose deaths occurred in the 

United States in the 12 months 

ending in May 2020, the highest 

number of overdose deaths ever 

recorded in that time frame. * 

The latest numbers suggest an 

acceleration of overdose deaths 

during the COVID-19 pandemic 

— the majority of those deaths 

from opioids. 

What We Are Doing 

People with substance use 

disorders often are reluctant to 

ask for help because they fear 

they will get in trouble or be 

denied what they need to cope. 

Substance use disorder destroys 

lives. Recovery shouldn’t. 

That’s why Arkansas Blue Cross 

and Blue Shield is working 

closely with the medical 

community and Arkansas 

businesses to address 

substance use disorders. 

Through the Blue & You 

Foundation, we’ve funded the 

distribution of naloxone kits 

and training to law enforcement 

officers. We’re part of Together 

Arkansas (togetherarkansas.com), 

an opioid response initiative that 

provides employers a toolkit of 

free resources. 

And we are working with our 

members, recognizing that you, 

or someone you love, may 

be struggling to live a normal 

life while hiding a disorder. 

We recognize that medicationassisted 

treatment (MAT), 

provided by qualified physicians 

and paired with counseling, can 

help people regain control of 

their lives without disrupting 

their jobs or families. 

What You Can Do 

For medication-assisted 

treatment to work, people 

who need it have to speak 

up. Talk to your doctor, call 

the number on the back of 

your health plan ID card or call 

the New Directions Substance 

Use Member Hotline at 

877-326-2458. Take the 

first step ... ask for help. 

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

There's Still Time to Enroll in a 

Family and Individual Health Plan 

Do you know anyone who still needs 2021 coverage? 

The federal government opened a Special Enrollment Period 

where families and individuals can enroll in a 2021 Affordable 

Care Act (ACA) health insurance plan for 2021 coverage. 

Enrollment ends May 15. 

You can shop for plans at arkbluecross.com or schedule an 

appointment at our eight ArkansasBlue welcome centers, 

where you can receive friendly customer service, ask questions, 

shop for new plans and find out if you're eligible for financial 

assistance. Our welcome centers are open by appointment only, 

but customers may schedule phone and video appointments, 

too. To find your nearest welcome center and schedule your 

time, visit arkbluecross.com/locations or flip to page 23. 

SPRING 2021 3

Vaccinate the Natural State 

Let’s end this COVID pandemic together! 

The COVID-19 pandemic has 

taken too much from Arkansans 

and the people we know and love. 

Hope is on the horizon in the 

form of vaccinations, but 

developing and distributing the 

vaccine is only half the battle. 

The other half is getting the 

majority of people to accept the 

vaccination when it's their turn. 

The Vaccinate the Natural State 

initiative, launched in February, 

is sponsored and led by Arkansas 

Blue Cross and Blue Shield, 

in partnership with multiple 

business and community 

organizations, to educate and 

engage Arkansans in doing our 

part to help stop the pandemic. 

"The health of our communities 

relies on every eligible Arkansan 

getting the COVID-19 vaccine 

as soon as it becomes available 

to them," said Curtis Barnett, 

president and chief executive 

officer of Arkansas Blue Cross. 

"Vaccinations offer our best 

path for eliminating the virus, 

ending the suffering and starting 

the process of returning our 

lives back to some sense of 

normal. The organizations that 

have come together to fuel this 

movement represent best-ofclass 

knowledge, coupled with 

connected networks. We believe 

this combination will help make 

Vaccinate the Natural State lifechanging 

for all of us" 

There are two primary focuses 

for the initiative: 

BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS 

ENGAGEMENT 

is helping employers prepare 

for getting employees 

vaccinated and safely 

returning to the workplace. 

Employers will have a 

microsite for resources, 

(including video modules and 

toolkits with digital and print 

resources and information), 

and are being encouraged to 

champion vaccine acceptance 

by taking a pledge. 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 

is reaching individuals 

statewide with targeted 

information and 

encouragement and providing 

access to vaccinations. 

This outreach is two-fold: 

1. Health Disparity 

Populations 

The initiative is informing and 

encouraging underserved 

populations to receive 

a vaccination. Specific 

messaging is being shared 

with African American, 

Latinx, Pacific Islanders and 

rural Arkansans. Vaccination 

clinics are being arranged 

in these communities. 

2. All Arkansans 

This initiative will reach all 

Arkansans with information 

about the importance of 

receiving the vaccination 

and encouragement to take 

the vaccine. 

The pandemic has revealed many 

things this past year, and one 

thing is certain: it has heightened 

awareness of health disparities 

in our state and nation. Vaccinate 

the Natural State is committed 

to reaching all Arkansans with 

information and vaccines. It will 

take everyone working together to 

make it happen. 

Great work already is taking 

place in Arkansas. Hospitals 

and pharmacies, government 

agencies and organizations 

are working quickly to get the 

available vaccine to Arkansans. 

The Vaccinate the Natural State 

initiative seeks to extend that 

effort, helping to make sure 

the vaccine gets to vulnerable 

populations. 


In partnership with: The Arkansas Department of Health, Arkansas Foundation 

for Medical Care (AFMC), Arkansas Minority Health Commission, Arkansas 

State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas, Northwest 

Arkansas Council, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Walmart. 

Brought to you by: 

Arkansas Blue Cross 

and Blue Shield 

Community partners: Arkansas Colleges of Health Education, Arkansas Faith 

Network, Arkansas Hospital Association, Arkansas Immunization Action 

Coalition (Immunize Arkansas), Arkansas Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical 

Association, Arkansas Pharmacists Association, Association of Federally 

Qualified Health Centers, Community Health Centers of Arkansas and NYIT 

College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. 

The collaboration of great 

partners will help ensure that. 

Creshelle Nash, M.D., Arkansas 

Blue Cross and Blue Shield 

medical director for public 

programs, is helping lead 

community engagement efforts. 

"Vaccinate the Natural State is 

pulling together a diverse set of 

organizations, many of which 

I've been proud to work with for 

quite some time, as well as some 

other key groups who share 

Arkansas Blue Cross' desire for all 

Arkansans to be healthy and get 

the care they need," said Dr. Nash. 

"COVID-19 has uncovered and 

illuminated deep, long-term health 

and healthcare disparities, some 

more obvious than others, in our 

nation and here at home. We all 

have a responsibility to bridge the 

great disparity divides – racial, 

digital and healthcare access. 

"We hope to address some 

culture-specific hesitancies, 

fears and misperceptions as 

well as ensure ready access 

to the vaccines for disparate 

communities in Arkansas." 

Some efforts are already 

organized and activated; 

some are in the early stages 

of formation and will be 

accelerated to meet evolving 

needs. Vaccinate the Natural 

State collaborators are: 

• Developing communications 

in languages people can 

understand 

• Volunteering at vaccination 

events or organizing 

vaccination opportunities 

close to home 

• Funding efforts like mobile 

vaccination units to ensure 

all Arkansans have access 

to vaccines 

• Identifying needs not 

yet revealed 

Vaccinate the Natural State 

collaboration will extend to 

the Arkansas Faith Network, 

Arkansas Medical, Dental & 

Pharmaceutical Association, 

the Association of Federally 

Qualified Health Centers, 

Community Health Centers of 

Arkansas and more. 

"We want to reach Arkansans 

in all areas of the state, 

metropolitan and rural, 

with information and 

encouragement about the 

importance of receiving the 

vaccination and get the vaccine 

to all parts of the state," said Dr. 

Nash. "With this crisis comes 

opportunity. Arkansas has 

a chance to get it right. The 

collaboration of the community 

partners involved in Vaccinate 

the Natural State is driven – 

one friend, one family member, 

one neighbor, one stranger at 

a time – until our more than 3 

million citizens are free from 

the fear of COVID." 


A candid conversation with 

Creshelle Nash, 

MD, MPH, CHIE 

Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield 

Medical Director for Public Programs 

COVID-19 vaccines, vulnerable populations 

and advancing healthcare equity 

Creshelle Nash was nearing the end of her medical 

residency 20 years ago, when surgeons removed 

her spleen. Doctors believed she had lymphoma, a 

type of blood cancer. However, as it turns out, she 

didn’t have lymphoma but rather a benign growth 

on her spleen, discovered during the splenectomy. 

That’s actually the good news. Unfortunately, 

removing her spleen placed Dr. Nash in a category 

of immunosuppressed individuals, so fighting 

infections is typically much harder. 

She’s not complaining or disenchanted by her health 

status. As an African American woman, physician 

and public health practitioner, it informs how she 

educates, engages and fights for health equity 

alongside communities of color and the underserved. 

Dr. Nash spoke with Blueprint about the COVID-19 

crisis, her thoughts on the new vaccines and her 

work toward quality healthcare for every Arkansan. 

Because of COVID-19, we hear more about the 

need for equity in healthcare. Talk a little about 

what that means. 

Dr. Nash: Equity in healthcare means everyone 

has the opportunity to be as healthy as possible. 

It means the removal of barriers that keep some 

people from being as healthy as others. Some 

barriers include lack of access to quality education, 

employment and housing. It encompasses judicial 

fairness, social and socioeconomic status, etc. 

Throughout my medical and public health training, 

I’ve witnessed healthcare disparities, mainly how 

minority, rural and underserved populations have 

less access to care and receive lower-quality care. 

COVID-19 has uncovered and illuminated deep, longterm 

healthcare disparities, some more obvious 

than others. There are documented inequities in 

most health conditions, from cardiovascular 

disease to cancer to asthma and HIV. 

It’s almost impossible to talk about healthcare 

disparity and its negative impact on people of 

color, particularly African Americans, without 

talking about the Tuskegee Experiment. 

Dr. Nash: True. It’s easy to point to the 40-year long 

Tuskegee Experiment as an egregious, horrific 

example of healthcare mistreatment in research, 

and it was awful. It was unconscionable. Yet, 

there have been hundreds of years of medical 

mistreatment and denial of treatment for people 

of color and the underserved before and beyond 

Tuskegee. Since then, many individuals in clinical 

research, clinical practice, policies and programs 

are working to ensure this never happens again. 

I share their passion, and we’re making progress. 

The Tuskegee Experiment should convict us to 

learn from the past as we address COVID-19. 

In this current crisis, black and brown people 

have higher rates of infection than white 

individuals. That’s due to many factors like the 

inability to social distance because of crowded 

and limited housing and the fact that many are 

essential workers who are overly exposed and 

under-protected. Minorities experience higher rates 

of hospitalization but are still more likely to die. 


theTuskegee 

Experiment 

In 1932, the Centers for 

Disease Control and Prevention 

(CDC) and the U.S. Public 

Health Service (USPHS, a 

division of the Department of 

Health and Human Services), 

recruited 600 African American 

men to study the long-term 

effects of syphilis. Syphilis is 

commonly transmitted sexually 

or from an infected mother 

to her unborn child. Endemic 

syphilis is a nonsexual form. 

It is common in dry, hot, rural 

climates with lots of poverty, 

inadequate sanitation and 

limited access to proper 

hygiene. Of the 600 men 

recruited, 399 had syphilis but 

were not told of their condition. 

The men were poor 

sharecroppers who never 

received medical care before 

the experiment. To keep them 

committed, the researchers 

promised them hot meals 

and free medical care. The 

experiment was slated to last six 

months but went on for 40 years. 

According to the CDC, the 

experiment “became unethical 

in the 1940's when penicillin 

became the recommended 

drug for the treatment of 

syphilis and researchers did 

not offer it to the subjects.” 

The CDC and USPHS forbade 

other healthcare providers 

from treating the men when 

they sought treatment outside 

of the experiment. 

The Tuskegee Experiment 

stands as one of the most 

appalling violations of ethics in 

medical research history. It was 

the catalyst for massive reforms 

in U.S. research practices. 

A commonly held myth about 

the Tuskegee Experiment is that 

researchers infected the men 

with syphilis, which is not true. 

The men had syphilis before the 

study. The researchers prevented 

the men from receiving an 

antibiotic that would have 

treated their condition. 

Ultimately, who’s responsible for eradicating 

disparities in healthcare among people of color 

and underserved populations? 

Dr. Nash: We all are. And as healthcare providers 

and public health professionals, we must step up 

and own up to how we have prolonged and, in 

some cases, worsened healthcare inequalities. 

It’s our responsibility as citizens and professionals 

to become solution-oriented. This crisis is our 

opportunity to improve our entire healthcare system. 

It’s how we honor our communities for whom the 

healthcare system was established. Likewise, each 

person has a role to educate themselves and speak 

up for those more vulnerable. 

What are your thoughts on the COVID-19 vaccines 

and the reluctance of some people to get vaccinated? 

Dr. Nash: I understand their reluctance. Yet, 

despite a healthcare system that has not always 

worked for people of color, many have bravely 

volunteered for the clinical trials! While working 

from home and researching the vaccine, I thought 

about others whose jobs require them to leave 

their homes. Eventually, I was no longer just 

researching for myself but in honor of them. 

I want everyone to know that the COVID-19 

vaccine science and technology are not new. 

The review processes were not skipped. They 

were simultaneous and not sequential, making 

everything faster. Safety-monitoring boards work 

closely with drug manufacturers. After I weighed 

the benefits and risks, I was satisfied enough with 

the data to recommend the vaccine to my father, 

mother and other family members. 

What keeps you hopeful about the outcome 

of the COVID-19 vaccines? 

Dr. Nash: My faith, primarily. Courageous 

communities helping those most affected and 

in greatest need inspire me. The vaccine is 

representative of the best medical science we 

have, and it’s becoming accessible to everyone. 

After receiving my shot, I attended an event in 

Pine Bluff, talked to people and administered the 

vaccine to everyone who wanted it. Roughly 850 

individuals were vaccinated that day. 

How can healthcare providers persuade patients 

to take the vaccine when it’s available? 

Dr. Nash: Share the scientific data about efficacy and 

safety, yes. But that alone won’t convince a person to 

get vaccinated. Demonstrating concern for people’s 

health and values is persuasive. That’s complicated 

when providers might be seeing patients every 15 

minutes. But when patients are convinced that you 

care for and respect them, they are more open. 


Getting 

to know 

DR.NASH 

A native Arkansan 

• Graduated from Hall High School in Little Rock 

A head for medicine 

• Attended the University of Maryland 

School of Medicine in Baltimore 

• Received her medical degree in 1994 

• Served her medical residency at The George Washington 

University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in 

Washington, D.C. 

• Completed a residency in Primary Care Internal 

Medicine in 1997 

A heart for public health 

• Earned a master's degree in public health from the 

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in 1998 

• Completed the Commonwealth Fund Harvard 

University Fellowship in Minority Health Policy 

• Worked for the Clinton School of Public Service, the 

Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health and the 

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College 

of Medicine Department of General Internal Medicine 

• Enjoys community advocacy, teaching and 

mentoring students 

A Certified Health Insurance Executive 

(America’s Health Insurance Plan Executive 

Leadership Program for Medical Directors) 

• CHIEs help lead healthcare innovations and transformation 

within their organizations and communities 

A favorite quote 

Of all the forms of inequality, injustice 

in health care is the most shocking and the 

most inhuman because it often results 

in physical death. 

– Martin Luther King, Jr. 


What you need to know about 

COVID-19 vaccinations 

COVID-19 vaccines are increasingly reaching Arkansans. The 

vaccination process offers hope that, if we work together, we may 

soon return to the activities we've missed during the pandemic. 

There is a lot of misinformation circulating about the vaccines, so 

Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield created this special section 

to provide some reliable answers. It can help you understand more 

about the vaccines, how to sign up for an appointment (even if you 

don't have a computer) and what to expect when you get vaccinated. 

We want to dispel the rumors and myths you may be hearing and 

give you the straight facts. 

As a daughter, a doctor, a teacher, a woman of color and a 

person who lives with an autoimmune condition, I understand 

the questions people have about the vaccines. 

However, based on my own research, I have confidently 

recommended that my family, friends, co-workers and students 

take the vaccine when it’s available to them. I encourage you to do the 

same. The vaccine is free to you, whether you have insurance or not. 

While we wait, and even after you receive the vaccine, please 

continue to wash your hands, wear masks and keep a safe distance. 

Arkansas Blue Cross has been working closely with state officials 

and health experts to take care of Arkansans during the pandemic, 

and we will continue to do so during and after the vaccinations. 

If you have questions after reading this publication, please 

reach out to the Arkansas Department of Health COVID-19 

Hotline at 800-803-7847. 

--Dr. Creshelle Nash 

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Special Section 

About the COVID-19 vaccines 

Setting up a COVID-19 

vaccination appointment 

Your COVID-19 


After your vaccination 

Vaccination information 

in Spanish 

COVID-19 vaccine 

questions and answers 

Avoid vaccination scams 


COVID-19 vaccines 

How they were made ... 

and how they work 

COVID-19 vaccines are marvels of modern medicine that were developed in less 

than a year, but that doesn't mean they were rushed. The science behind them is 

the result of decades of research. That's why they could be developed so quickly. 

Safety 

The U.S. vaccine safety system ensures that all 

vaccines are as safe as possible. Any vaccines 

with Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) have 

been tested according to the federal Food & Drug 

Administration's (FDA) rigorous standards. 

Most of the time, vaccine developers run 

one test at a time. Because of the pandemic, 

researchers ran many of these tests at the same 

time. This sped up the testing process without 

compromising safety. 

Messenger RNA vaccines 

The vaccines made by Pfizer-BioNTech and 

Moderna use messenger RNA (mRNA), a 

genetic material containing instructions for 

making proteins. The mRNA is coated with a fat 

nanoparticle (think of a fatty overcoat) to protect 

it. Inside the body, the outer coat is removed, 

and the mRNA enters the immune system, 

instructing it to produce only the "spike" protein 

found on the surface of the virus (those are the 

spiky things you see in pictures of viruses). The 

body recognizes the spike protein as an invader 

and produces antibodies against it. Later, if 

the antibodies encounter the actual virus, they 

recognize those spike proteins and destroy it. 

Think of the spike protein like a key trying to 

unlock our cells. The antibodies from the vaccine 

block the keyhole, preventing the virus from 

intruding. The mRNA strand never enters the cell's 

nucleus or affects genetic material. The vaccine 

can't alter your DNA or give you COVID-19. 

Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine: 

Two doses, 21 days apart; peak 

immunity two weeks after second dose 

95% effective at preventing 

symptomatic COVID-19 

For people age 16 and older 

Moderna vaccine: 

Two doses, 28 days apart, peak 

immunity two weeks after second dose 

94.1% effective at preventing 

symptomatic COVID-19 


Adenovirus vaccines 

Some vaccines, like the Johnson & Johnson 

vaccine, use a common cold virus called an 

adenovirus. In the adenovirus vaccine, a small 

amount of genetic material from the spike protein 

is attached to the cold virus. Think of it as the 

adenovirus wearing a backpack containing the 

spike protein’s genetic material. In the body, 

the adenovirus enters cells and unpacks the 

backpack, tricking them into producing the spike 

protein, which triggers the immune system to 

produce antibodies that protect against the real 

virus. Adenovirus vaccines also can't alter your 

DNA or give you a cold or COVID-19. 

Johnson & Johnson vaccine: 

One dose; peak immunity two weeks after shot 

85% effective at preventing severe COVID-19 


10 SPRING 2021 

Sources: CDC.gov; FDA.gov.

Setting up a COVID-19 


Even if you don’t have 

internet or a smartphone, 

help is available! 

Important note: Please choose only one vaccination site. Signing up at multiple locations 

could keep someone else from getting a vaccination. 

If you have internet 

The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) COVID-19 website, healthy.arkansas.gov, has links 

for online scheduling and phone numbers to set up appointments. 

If you don’t have internet 

You can call the state’s COVID-19 Call Center at 800-803-7847, and a representative will help you 

locate a vaccination site where you can call to set up an appointment. You can also call the state’s 

new COVID-19 vaccination hotline at 800-985-6030. They can schedule you at an upcoming 

vaccination event or direct you to a local pharmacy, where you can call for an appointment. 

If you’re age 65+ 

Online scheduling – Check the ADH COVID-19 website healthy.arkansas.gov. 

Self-scheduling – The state’s COVID-19 Call Center at 800-803-7847 can help you locate 

a vaccination site where you can call to set up an appointment. 

If you need help signing up for a vaccination, you can call the state’s new COVID-19 

vaccination hotline at 800-985-6030. They can schedule you at an upcoming vaccination 

event or direct you to a local pharmacy, where you can call for an appointment. 

Assisted scheduling – The eight regional members of the Arkansas Association of Area 

Agencies on Aging can find a vaccination site near you and even get you scheduled – 

just call 866-739-7751 (They help Arkansans 50+). (Note: They may be able to find 

you a ride to and from your vaccination appointments.) 

If you’re employed 

At work – Check with your employer to see if they are planning an on-site vaccination clinic. 

Community pharmacies – You can check the Arkansas Department of Health COVID-19 website, 

healthy.arkansas.gov, or call the state’s COVID-19 Call Center at 800-803-7847 or call the 

state’s new COVID-19 vaccination hotline at 800-985-6030. 

What to take to your COVID-19 vaccination appointment 

You should bring a photo ID and your health plan member ID card (and your pharmacy card, 

if it is separate). There’s nothing to pay, but the staff will need your insurance coverage 

information to file a claim with your health plan. 


Your COVID-19 

vaccine appointment 

Here are some tips for the best experience at 

your COVID-19 vaccine appointment. 

Be patient 

When you arrive, you’ll have some paperwork 

to fill out, and you may have a bit of a wait. 

You will be asked some questions, and you 

will need to fill out a consent form. You will also 

need to show your identification and insurance 

card, if you have one. (It’s OK if you don’t.) 

Be safe 

You still need to wear your mask and practice 

social distancing when you get your 

vaccination. Medical staff will be washing their 

hands and doing their part to keep you healthy. 

Read the signs 

Pay attention to any signs directing where to 

stand, where to go next, etc. You may also see 

signs indicating capacity limits for the room. 

Listen 

The medical professional who gives you 

the vaccine may ask questions about your 

medical history or may say things to keep you 

calm. Listen carefully, answer the questions 

and follow directions they give you as they 

administer the shot. 

Wait 

After you receive the shot in your upper arm, 

you will be asked to wait 15 minutes before 

leaving. You will be checked for medical 

reactions, including anxiety about getting the 

shot. In rare cases, reactions can occur after 

leaving the facility. If that happens, call your 

doctor immediately. 

Second shot? 

Some COVID-19 vaccines need two doses, 

approximately 3 to 4 weeks apart. The 

Johnson & Johnson vaccine only requires 

one dose. If you need a second dose, you 

will be given a card showing which vaccine 

you received (e.g., Moderna, Pfizer, etc.), 

your first vaccination date and when and 

where to return for the second dose. 

From start to finish, your appointment should last about an hour. Many people choose to return home and 

rest. Once you receive your COVID-19 vaccine (first, second or only dose), the Centers for Disease Control 

and Prevention (CDC) recommends you wait at least 14 days before getting a vaccine for the flu, shingles, 

or other illness. The reverse is also true if you get another vaccine before getting a COVID-19 vaccine. 


After your 

vaccination 

Here are a few tips on what you might 

experience after getting the COVID-19 vaccine. 

Right after the shot 

You will be asked to wait for about 15 minutes as a 

precaution to rule out an allergic reaction – which 

is very rare. While you are waiting, you can sign up 

for v-safe, a smartphone-based tool that provides 

health check-ins after receiving your vaccination. 

Through v-safe, you can tell the Centers for 

Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) if you have 

any side effects, and they can check on you. 

Side effects 

It's not uncommon to have mild side effects from 

vaccinations, but they are much less serious 

than having COVID-19. According to the CDC, side 

effects are a sign that your body is building 

protection. Side effects usually show up one 

to three days after your shot, and they’re more 

common after your second dose. 

The most reported side effects include: 

Redness, swelling 

and/or pain at the 

injection site 

Tiredness or fatigue 

Headache 

Muscle pain 

Chills 

Joint pain 

Fever 

Nausea and/or vomiting 

Swollen lymph nodes 

Here are some tips that might help: 

• Move your vaccinated arm around gently 

to help reduce pain or swelling 

• Put a cool, wet washcloth on the injection site 

to help reduce any soreness. 

• Take a non-aspirin pain reliever (if it’s safe 

for you to take one) if you experience soreness, 

muscle aches or low-grade fever. 

Side effects should resolve within a few days 

and seem to be less frequent or severe for 

those over age 55. 

Keep up pandemic precautions 

It takes about two weeks for you to be fully 

protected after you receive your final vaccination, 

but after that, the vaccines are highly effective. 

In fact, the CDC now says vaccinated people can 

visit indoors without wearing masks or physical 

distancing if it is with other fully vaccinated 

people or with unvaccinated people from a 

single household who are at low risk for severe 

COVID-19. Great news for grandparents! 

However, when you are in public, you still should: 

Wash your hands 

Wear a mask 

Stay at least 6 feet from others 

Why? We don’t know yet if fully vaccinated people 

can spread the illness to others. And, the virus keeps 

changing, so it is good to protect yourself from those 

variants. So far it looks as if the vaccines do protect 

from the different variants, but that could change. 

Once case numbers drop, more pandemic 

precautions can stop. And once enough of us 

are vaccinated, we can all get those hugs we’ve 

been missing. 


Información importante 

sobre las vacunas COVID-19 

Como programar una cita de vacunación covid-19 

Nota importante: Por favor elija solo un sitio de vacunación. Si usted se registra en 

múltiples lugares podrían evitar que otra persona se vacuna. 

Si no tiene Internet 

o un teléfono inteligente, 

¡hay ayuda disponible! 

Si tienes internet 

El sitio web del Departamento de Salud de Arkansas (ADH), healthy.arkansas.gov, tiene enlaces 

para la programación en línea. Todos los sitios de vacunación enlistan los números de teléfono 

para obtener citas. 

Si no tienes internet 

Puede llamar a la nueva línea directa de vacunación COVID-19 de Arkansas, al teléfono 800-985-6030. 

Ellos pueden programarle una cita en algún evento de vacunación o dirigirlo a una farmacia 

local donde puede llamar para programar una cita. Hay servicios de traducción disponibles. 

Si tiene más de 50 años y necesita ayuda 

La Asociación de Agencias en el Área de la Tercera Edad de Arkansas puede encontrar un 

sitio de vacunación cerca de usted y ayudar a programar su cita. Llame al 866-739-7751. 

(Nota: Es posible que puedan encontrarle trasporte hacia y desde sus citas de vacunación.) 

Q 

Q 

Q 

Preguntas y respuestas sobre la vacuna COVID-19 

¿Puedo contraer COVID-19 

por la vacuna? 

No, las vacunas sólo incluyen 

una pequeñísima parte del virus, 

por lo que no se puede contraer 

el virus COVID-19 de la vacuna. 

¿Tendré una reacción 

alérgica a la vacuna? 

Con cualquier vacuna para 

cualquier virus, pueden ocurrir 

reacciones alérgicas raras. Si 

ha tenido una reacción alérgica 

previa a una vacuna, consulte a 

su médico. 

¿Pueden vacunarse las 

mujeres embarazadas, 

las que desean quedar 

embarazadas o que están 

amamantando? 

Sí, son elegibles para recibir 

la vacuna. Si está embarazada 


Q 

o está tratando de quedar 

embarazada, debe consultar con 

su médico sobre las vacunas 

COVID-19. Los estudios han 

encontrado que las mujeres 

sanas que están embarazadas 

están especialmente en un severo 

riesgo de contraer COVID-19. 

¿Debo recibir la vacuna si 

tengo diabetes, presión 

arterial alta, enfermedades 

cardíacas u otra afección 

subyacente? 

Sí, las vacunas, ya sea para 

COVID-19, gripe o neumonía, 

son importantes para los 

adultos con ciertas condiciones 

médicas subyacentes debido 

a un mayor riesgo de contraer 

una enfermedad grave a cause 

del COVID-19. 

Q 

Q 

¿Deben vacunarse los niños? 

La vacuna Pfizer ha sido 

autorizada para mayores 

de 16 años. 

Las vacunas Moderna y Johnson 

& Johnson están actualmente 

aprobadas para mayores de 

18 años. Varios fabricantes 

de vacunas tienen en marcha 

ensayos clínicos pediátricos. 

¿Cuáles son las variantes 

y si la vacuna me protege 

de ellas? 

Los virus cambian 

constantemente, incluyendo 

el nuevo coronavirus. Las 

vacunas COVID-19 muestran 

protección contra las variantes 

actuales, pero es posible que sea 

necesario modificar las vacunas 

y probablemente en un futuro 

necesitemos vacunas adicionales.

COVID-19 vaccine 

questions and answers 

Q 

Can I get COVID-19 from 

the vaccine? 

No, the vaccines only include 

a tiny part of the virus, so you 

cannot get the COVID-19 virus 

from the vaccine. 

Q 

Q 

Will I have an allergic 

reaction to the vaccine? 

With any vaccine for any 

virus, rare allergic reactions 

can occur. If you have had a 

previous allergic reaction to a 

vaccination, talk to your doctor. 

Can pregnant women, 

women wanting 

to become pregnant or 

who are breastfeeding get 

the vaccine? 

Yes, they are eligible to get the 

vaccine. If you are pregnant 

or trying to become pregnant, 

you should discuss COVID-19 

vaccinations with your doctor. 

Studies have found that healthy 

women who are pregnant are 

especially at risk of severe 

COVID-19. 

Q 

Q 

Should I get the vaccine 

if I have diabetes, high 

blood pressure, heart 

disease or another 

underlying condition? 

Yes, vaccinations, whether for 

COVID-19, flu or pneumonia, are 

important for adults with certain 

underlying medical conditions 

because of their increased 

risk for severe illness from 

COVID-19. 

Should children get 

vaccinated? 

The Pfizer vaccine has been 

authorized for ages 16 and up. 

The Moderna and Johnson & 

Johnson vaccines are currently 

approved for ages 18 and 

up. Several vaccine 

manufacturers have pediatric 

clinical trials underway. 

Q 

Q 

If I have recovered from 

COVID-19, should 

I get vaccinated? 

Yes. If you have already had 

COVID-19, you may have some 

natural immunity from the virus. 

But it is unclear how long this 

immunity lasts. The Centers for 

Disease Control & Prevention 

(CDC) recommends that 

people who had COVID-19 get 

vaccinated when it is their turn. 

What are variants and 

does the vaccine protect 

me from them? 

Viruses constantly change, 

including the novel coronavirus. 

The COVID-19 vaccines show 

protection against the current 

variants, but to keep up with 

these changes, the vaccines may 

need to be adapted and we may 

need additional vaccinations in 

the future. 

Q 

How long does vaccine 

protection last? 

It’s not clear how long the 

protection lasts from the 

vaccines. Researchers are 

learning more every day about 

natural immunity and vaccineinduced 

immunity. 

Q 

If I currently have 

COVID-19, can I get 

vaccinated? 

No. If you currently have 

COVID-19, you should wait until 

you recover to get vaccinated. 

Talk to your doctor about when 

you should receive the vaccine. 

Please note the information in this article is accurate as of this printing. The situation surrounding 

COVID-19 continues to evolve, so please follow updates on the CDC websites. 


PROTECT YOURSELF! 

Avoid COVID-19 Vaccine Scams 

As COVID-19 vaccine distribution begins, 

here are signs of potential scams: 

You are asked to pay "out of pocket" to get the vaccine. 

You are asked to pay to put your name on a vaccine 

waiting list or to get early access. 

Advertisements for vaccines from unsolicited/ 

unknown sources through social media platforms, 

email, telephone calls or online. 

Marketers offering to sell or ship doses of the 

vaccine for payment. 

PROTECT YOURSELF! 

Do not give out your personal information to unknown sources 

If you believe you have been the victim of 

COVID-19 fraud, immediately report it to: 

HHS-OIG Hotline: 1-800-HHS-TIPS tips.hhs.gov 

FBI Hotline: 1-800-CALL-FBI ic3.gov 

CMS/Medicare Hotline: 1-800-MEDICARE 

For accurate, up-to-date information 

about COVID -19, visit: 

oig.hhs.gov/coronavirus 

fbi.gov/coronavirus 

justice.gov/coronavirus 

Sources: HHS Office of Inspector General, Federal Bureau of Investigation, 

Department of Justice and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services 


COVID-19: Sick all over 

Novel coronavirus can strike many parts of the body 

COVID-19 has a well-earned reputation as an 

illness that hits the respiratory system especially 

hard. But it is far more than just a lung disease. 

COVID-19 can affect the: 

BRAIN 

Causing encephalopathy (“COVID brain”) and stroke 

NOSE 

Triggering the loss of smell and taste 

LUNGS 

Producing cough, pneumonia and respiratory failure 

HEART 

Bringing heart rhythm problems, heart injury, 

inflammation, congestive heart failure and shock 

STOMACH and BOWELS 

Causing nausea, vomiting and diarrhea 

KIDNEYS 

Resulting in renal insufficiency and failure 

BLOOD/CIRCULATORY SYSTEM 

Producing clotting in the lungs, brain and extremities 

Its effect on the lungs can be profound and gets 

lots of attention. But COVID-19 can impair organs 

and systems throughout the body. 

For these reasons, COVID-19 is particularly dangerous for people who: 

Suffer from cardiovascular disease Have a history of cancer (especially 

blood, lung and metastatic varieties) 

Live with diabetes 

Are affected by chronic kidney disease 

Have high blood pressure 

Are obese 

Struggle with chronic lung disease Smoke 

These factors are part of what makes COVID-19 so problematic – because there are so 

many ways it can wreak havoc in the body and cause serious illness and even death. 

This is your brain on COVID-19 

COVID-19’s effects on the brain may not grab the headlines, but they can be disruptive ... and even 

devastating. When novel coronavirus enters the brain, it prompts the release of proteins called 

cytokines as part of the body’s immune response. Occasionally, the body goes overboard, creating 

a “cytokine storm,” which can create inflammation and neurotoxicity, causing brain dysfunction. 

Sometimes symptoms are mild – like headache, fever, fatigue or minor mental focus/concentration 

problems. But more severe symptoms can include confusion, seizures, paralysis, speech or hearing 

problems and more. If you have or had COVID-19 and any of these symptoms sound familiar, share 

your concerns with your healthcare provider. 


Care has no boundaries 

WWhen Robin Hughes, R.N., a nurse case 

manager for Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue 

Shield, was first assigned to help David * , 

a member in Minnesota, she didn’t realize the 

struggle he had already gone through to survive. 

She received a referral on David on September 28, 

2020, but his healthcare journey started six months 

earlier, as COVID-19 began to ravage his lungs. 

David, in his 40s, was living with his dog in a 

sparsely populated part of Minnesota, but he 

worked at a factory across the state line in North 

Dakota. He was overweight, and COVID-19 hit him 

hard. After a short stay in a hospital in late April, he 

was discharged home and told to follow up with his 

doctor in early May. 

“He didn’t keep his follow-up appointments because 

his illness got worse,” said Robin. “He wasn’t able to 

walk his dog, maintain his home or care for himself. 

He lost 150 pounds in 60 days.” 

David struggled alone in his home until his parents 

traveled from Illinois to Minnesota to check on 

him. When they arrived on July 7, they immediately 

called an ambulance. He was taken to the nearest 

hospital, where they discovered that he had 

suffered a collapsed lung due to a lack of proper 

nutrition. He also had to have part of his intestine 

removed. After a few weeks, David was moved 

to a nursing facility for rehabilitation, where he 

stayed until late September. But just as things were 

looking up, David was thrown another curveball. 

going? My first course of action was to let them 

know that I’m here and to please keep me updated.” 

Robin began reviewing David’s case to get up to 

speed. In the meantime, David was discharged and 

opted to stay with his parents. He flew to Illinois on a 

Saturday and Robin called him the following Monday. 

She began by asking him about his immediate 

needs. His response was a little shocking. 

“He told me, ‘I have a valve in my chest, and I think 

they were supposed to take it out,’” Robin said. 

“He is the only person I’ve ever dealt with who was 

discharged with a Heimlich valve still in place.” 

She immediately went to work and discovered there 

were more hurdles to cross than she initially realized. 

“David’s case was really different because so much 

happened before I ever got the case,” Robin said. 

“Plus, it was so complicated because he lives in 

Minnesota, works in North Dakota and was staying 

in Illinois — I was dealing with three different states.” 

“He was getting ready to go home, and he started 

getting short of breath. They discovered he had 

another collapsed lung,” said Robin. David was 

readmitted to the hospital, where they inserted a 

chest tube and then put in a Heimlich valve, which 

prevents air from traveling back along a chest tube. 

That’s when Robin got involved. 

“The first thing I did was contact the hospital facility 

where he was and talk to the case manager there,” 

said Robin. “I needed to know his condition: What 

are his needs? When can he go home? Where is he 


Heimlich valve 

* This member's name and certain details 

have been changed to protect his identity.

Some states recognize the 

licenses of case managers from 

other states. Minnesota doesn’t. 

However, Robin is licensed 

in multiple states, including 

Minnesota. 

“You have to be specifically 

licensed in Minnesota; that’s 

how the case came to me in the 

first place,” she said. “There are 

a few states that don’t honor 

your home-state license, and 

Minnesota is one of them.” 

Robin called the hospital to get 

the surgeon’s name. She called 

the surgeon’s office and received 

a referral to a pulmonologist (lung 

doctor) in Illinois to remove the 

Heimlich valve. She found an innetwork 

primary care physician 

in Illinois and got David’s 

medications set up for him. After 

that, she spoke with David again. 

“We always ask, ‘What is your 

goal for your health?’” Robin said. 

David’s first request was about 

his home. 

“He told me that when he was 

unable to care for himself and 

his dog, conditions in his home 

became unliveable,” Robin said. 

“He needed help getting that 

cleaned up so he could return.” 

David had contacted a local 

contractor for a quote on deep 

cleaning and decontamination, 

but it would have cost more than 

he could afford. Additionally, 

he had fallen behind on his 

COVID-19 has been 

devastating, and I know our 

case management programs 

make a difference to affected 

members throughout the U.S. 

Robin Hughes, R.N. 

mortgage payments and was 

worried about foreclosure. 

Robin contacted the Tri-Valley 

Opportunity Council in David’s 

home county, where she was 

directed to the Minnesota 

Department of Housing and the 

Minnesota Department of Public 

Safety. With Robin’s help, David 

received assistance with his 

mortgage, utilities and cleaning 

his home. 

According to Robin, David is 

doing very well. 

“David is unusual because he 

followed everything I told him 

to do,” Robin said. “If I told him 

to call his doctor, he called his 

doctor. If I told him to call the 

housing authority, he called the 

housing authority. That almost 

never happens.” 

David returned home with his 

dog just after Christmas and 

continues to participate in 

outpatient therapy. He hopes to 

be back to work in March. 

“This has been a complicated 

but extremely rewarding case 

management case,” Robin said. 

“It has taken all disciplines 

to reach David’s goals, and 

I’m proud that we have made 

an impact. COVID-19 has 

been devastating to many 

Americans, and I know our 

case management programs 

make a difference to affected 

members throughout the 

United States. David’s is a real 

recovery success story.” 

Why do I need a 

case manager? 

When you or a loved one is in 

the midst of a health issue, you 

need an advocate who knows 

how to effectively navigate the 

world of doctors, hospitals and 

health insurance to go to work 

on your behalf. You need a nurse 

case manager. 

Case managers are registered 

nurses who work with our 

members to make sure they 

are getting necessary medical 

care and that their care is being 

delivered as efficiently and 

effectively as possible. They 

keep the lines of communication 

open with physicians, making 

sure instructions for medications 

are clearly understood and help 

with billing and claims issues. 

If you struggle with a health 

condition, Arkansas Blue Cross 

and Blue Shield’s case managers 

are ready to go to work for you. 

They can answer questions about 

your condition, help you map out 

a plan, teach you about self-care 

techniques and connect you to 

helpful support services. But they 

can’t give you that help unless 

they know you need it. The first 

step is to call the customer 

service number on the back of 

your member ID card. 


Welcome to our new Arkansas Blue Medicare and 

Health Advantage Medicare Advantage members 

Your confidence drives us to be the best possible partner. 

As an eligible Medicare member, 

you’ll have immediate access to 

tools and benefits created to 

help get the most from your plan. 

Getting started is easy… 

My Blueprint (our online member portal) provides secure and confidential 

access to personal health information. Go to arkbluemedicare.com/ 

myblueprint or HAmedicare.com/myblueprint to register. 

The Wire (text messaging) keeps us connected and you engaged by delivering 

alerts, tips and reminders directly to your phone. Enrollment is easy. Simply 

update the notification preferences in your My Blueprint settings. 

Visit your primary care physician as soon as possible to get your annual wellness 

exam, register for Healthy Blue Rewards at arkansashealthyblue.healthmine.com 

and earn a $50 Healthy Blue reward. * 

* This reward is only available to Arkansas Blue Medicare and Health Advantage Medicare 

Advantage members. 

Am I 

COVERED? 

Independent, free-standing ERs: 

Be aware of where you seek care 

Going to an emergency room can be a traumatic experience. 

But getting stuck with 100% of a huge bill from an independent, free-standing 

ER (one not associated with a hospital) could give you financial trauma as well. 

The key to avoiding this pocketbook pain is simple: Know before you go. 

Know what? Whether that ER is covered by your health plan. 

Which ERs are 

not covered? 

In general, if an ER is not 

affiliated with a hospital, 

Arkansas Blue Cross 

and Blue Shield and its 

affiliates (and most other 

health plans) may not 

have a contract with it. 

That means you may be 

personally responsible 

for the entire cost of the 

services you receive. 

Which ERs are covered 

by your health plan? 

It’s easy to find out now which 

ERs your health plan covers. 

Just go to My Blueprint (our 

online member portal) and 

select Find Care & Costs or 

call the customer service 

number on the back of your 

health plan member ID card. 

That way, when you need an 

ER, you’ll know where to go. 

No time to check? 

Of course, if you have a true medical 

emergency (your life or long-term 

health are in imminent danger), just 

get to an ER as quickly as possible. 

And if you don’t have time to check 

beforehand, just remember this 

general rule of thumb: 

If an ER is not associated with 

a hospital, you might be responsible 

for paying the full bill. 

Avoiding ERs that are not covered could protect you from an injury to your bank account. 


Blue & You Foundation for a 

Healthier Arkansas awards mini-grants 

The Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas 

awarded 345 mini-grants to community projects 

throughout the state for 2021. 

“We continue to see the mini-grants improve the quality 

of life for Arkansans. Organizations apply for $1,000 and 

make their community a safer place to live, improve their 

school’s mental health programs or offer fresh, healthy 

food to the hungry … all basic human needs that can’t be 

ignored, and the Blue & You Foundation is so happy to be 

able to fund this work,” said Rebecca Pittillo, executive 

director of the Blue & You Foundation. 

Of this year’s mini-grant recipients, 274 (79%) were firsttime 

recipients, 11 of which were from new cities, which 

brings the total number of Arkansas cities funded by the 

Foundation to 293. 

“This year we received mini-grants from all across 

the state and awarded at least one in each county. 

We continue to fund health-related needs such as food 

insecurity, healthy lifestyles and lifesaving tools, including 

AEDs, Stop the Bleed kits and naloxone kits,” 

said Pittillo. 

Blue & You saving lives by awarding 

168 

1,300 

2,600 

automated external 

defibrillators 

Stop the Bleed kits 

naloxone kits 

Find more information on this year’s mini-grants 

(and all previous grants) on the Foundation’s 

website: blueandyoufoundationarkansas.org. 

2021 mini-grants 

Organization Types 

$ 

113,000 to NONPROFITS 

$ 

35,000 to CHURCHES 

$ 

67,000 to SCHOOLS 

$ 

130,000 

to GOVERNMENT 

ENTITIES 

Communities receiving at least one 2021 mini-grant. 

Top 10 areas funded 

1. AEDs and CPR Manikins 

2. Naloxone Kits 

3. Stop the Bleed Kits 

4. Food Insecurity 

5. Access to Healthy Food 

6. Healthy Lifestyles 

7. COVID-19 Relief 

8. Exercise 

9. Personal Health 

and Hygiene 

10. Behavioral and 

Mental Health 


Spring Cleaning for Your Smile 

Need a dentist? 

If you don’t have a dentist, 

you can easily find one at 

arkansasbluecross.com. 

Spring is a time of renewal – 

a time to hit the reset button 

by cleaning dust and clutter 

built up over the winter. While 

you’re giving yourself a clean, 

fresh start to the season, how 

about giving your smile a fresh 

start also? It’s a great time to 

set up an appointment with 

your dentist for a little spring 

cleaning of your teeth. 

Take care of your teeth, and 

they’ll help take care of you 

Like dirt collects in your house, 

bacteria can build up in your 

mouth and cause problems down 

the road that can be painful ... and 

expensive. Good dental hygiene 

can help keep such issues at 

bay. This includes brushing at 

least twice a day, flossing daily, 

drinking lots of water, limiting 

sugar and avoiding tobacco 

products. But that isn’t enough. 

According to the American Dental 

Association, you should get a 

dental checkup and have your 

teeth professionally cleaned at 

least twice a year. 

When it comes to teeth 

cleanings, timing is everything 

If you schedule a checkup and 

cleaning with your dentist now, 

you’ll be able to easily schedule 

a second visit before the end of 

the year. Best of all, these regular 

checkups and cleanings go a long 

way toward ensuring that you can 

have a confident smile and enjoy 

better health year-round. 

Blue365 is your online destination for deals and exclusive discounts 

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is about making 

positive choices every day. It’s easy and affordable 

with our exclusive member * discount program, 

Blue365. It’s free to you, just for being Blue! 

Blue365 keeps you healthy and happy every day 

of the year. Enjoy discounts from your favorite 

national brands and local retailers on fitness 

gear, gym memberships, vision care, nutrition 

programs and more! Save on top brands like 

Fitbit ® , Reebok ® , Nutrisystem ® and more! 

Blue365 

Because Health is a Big Deal ® 

How do I join? 

Sign in to the My Blueprint online member portal 

(arkbluecross.com/myblueprint), go to Menu and 

select Blue365 and follow the instructions or 

visit blue365deals.com/arkbluecross. 

Once you are registered, you can choose your 

preferences to receive personalized deals and 

wellness tips straight to your inbox. 

Take charge of your health today and 

take advantage of this exciting program. 

* Includes all Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Health Advantage members, as well as health plans utilizing BlueAdvantage 

Administrators of Arkansas. Always check with your benefits administrator to ensure coverage and in-network providers. 


Get social 

with us! 

Whether it is sharing your cool new mask, your 

furry walking companion or a healthy recipe, 

Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield loves 

seeing you on social media. And if you like us 

on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn or Twitter, 

you can see our latest articles (before they 

come out in print) through our Blueprint news hub, 

hub.arkansasbluecross.com. We’ll keep you up to 

date on vaccination clinics, Blue & You Foundation 

grants and the latest trends in health and wellness. 

Like us, share us and join in the conversation! 

Customer Service NUMBERS 

May we help? For customer service, please call toll free: 

Arkansas BlueMedicare Advantage 

HMO Plans (H6158) 844-463-1088 

PPO Plans (H3554) 844-201-4934 

PFFS Plans (H4213) 877-233-7022 

Arkansas Blue Medicare Prescription 

Drug Plans (S5795): 866-390-3369 

Health Advantage Medicare Advantage 

HMO Plans (H9699): 877-349-9335 

Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield 

Medicare Supplement Plans 800-238-8379 

Arkansas Blue Cross members 800-238-8379 

Pharmacy questions 800-863-5561 

Specialty Rx pharmacy questions 866-295-2779 

Arkansas Blue Cross Metallic members 

(Gold, Silver, Bronze, Catastrophic) 800-800-4298 

Pharmacy questions 800-969-3983 

Health Advantage members 800-843-1329 

BlueAdvantage members 

Pharmacy questions 

888-872-2531 

888-293-3748 

Federal Employee members 800-482-6655 

Arkansas State Employees / 

Public School Employees 800-482-8416 

Looking for health or dental insurance? We can help! 

For individuals, families 800-392-2583 

For employer groups * 800-421-1112 

PAYING 

YOUR 

* Arkansas Blue Cross, Health Advantage and BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas 

bill 

To pay by phone ** , 

please call 

800-354-9904 

Visit our websites for more information: 

• arkbluecross.com 

• arkbluemedicare.com 

• hub.arkansasbluecross.com 

• healthadvantage-hmo.com 

• blueadvantagearkansas.com 

• blueandyoufoundationarkansas.org 

Prefer to speak with someone close to home? 

Call or visit one of our welcome centers near you: 

Fayetteville 

516 East Millsap Rd. – Suite 103 800-299-4109 

Fort Smith 

3501 Old Greenwood Rd. – Suite 3 800-299-4060 

Hot Springs 

1635 Higdon Ferry Rd. – Suite J 800-588-5733 

Jonesboro 

2110 Fair Park Blvd. – Suite I 800-299-4124 

Little Rock (MIDTOWN) 

416 S. University Ave. – Suite 110 501-396-8675 

Pine Bluff 

509 Mallard Loop Dr. 800-236-0369 

Rogers 

4602 W. Walnut St. 479-973-6675 

Texarkana 

1710 Arkansas Blvd. 800-470-9621 

** Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug plan product 

members must call Customer Service to discuss available 

payment options. Health Advantage conversion plans are not 

eligible for online, mobile or pay-by-phone payment options. 


The Blue & You 

Fitness Challenge 

is stronger 

than ever! 

The Blue & You Fitness Challenge 

officially kicked off March 1 and has 

more than 90 teams improving their 

health and wellness while competing 

against each other and challenging 

themselves. 

The 2021 Challenge includes a new wellness 

platform powered by Wellable, which you can use to sync 

to a wearable device. You also have FREE access to a library 

of online, instructor-led workouts to help you stay motivated 

while socially distancing. To complete the Challenge, you 

must earn a minimum of 20,000 Wellable points. 

BONUS: Participants who log activity for 30 consecutive 

days starting March 1 will be entered into a drawing to win 

a $350 gift certificate to Wellable’s fitness store! If you are 

in the Challenge, make sure you log your points at 

app.wellable.co/login or visit blueandyoufitnesschallenge-ark.com 

and select Log Activity. 

10023 4/21

Blueprint magazine-SPRING 2021 issue

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