Prepare Now for 2009 LifeSteps Personal Scorecard
There's no time like the present to assess your current health habits. That's because it will soon be time to take the 2009 LifeSteps personal scorecard - and now is the time to get ready. You can take the scorecard anytime from Sept. 15 - Dec. 1, 2008, to ensure that your scorecard credits begin with your first paycheck in January 2009.
Look in your mailbox over the next few days... U.S. employees (and in many cases, their spouses) will receive a flyer that helps you to think about the changes you need to make before you take the personal scorecard.
Take the Scorecard to Offset the Cost of Your Medical Plan Contributions
In its fourth year, the personal scorecard's objective remains the same. It aims to focus attention on the connection between health habits and health care costs, which continue to rise across the United States. By taking the personal scorecard and earning discount points, participants in the Trane medical plan will receive a credit to each paycheck to offset the cost of your medical plan contributions.
The personal scorecard asks you to answer up to 25 questions on behaviors that you can control - such as, getting appropriate health screenings, knowing your screening results, eating well and exercising. The 2009 scorecard is similar to last year's scorecard. There is one new question, which will enable you to increase your overall score based on how often you participate in various LifeSteps activities. That means more ways to increase your savings - and the money in your pocket!
Step One: Get Ready
Review the flyer you receive to see what actions you need to take, such as scheduling doctor or dentist appointments, locating any recent screening results and making other changes toward healthy behaviors.
In addition, the flyer will provide information on various programs and resources to help you modify your habits to improve your lifestyle. From discounts for weight loss programs and exercise facilities, to a proven tobacco cessation program through the American Cancer Society, LifeSteps has negotiated favorable rates with a variety of programs to provide support.
So, during the next few weeks, be sure to review your flyer and begin scheduling appointments or jotting down dates of and results from current screenings. The more information you prepare in advance, the faster you can complete your scorecard - and ensure that your credits begin early in the new year.
Step Two: Submit Your Scorecard
In mid-September, we'll provide more information, including the sample scorecard, which lets you see the value of your health habits and ways to increase your score.
The actual scorecard will be available online or by phone on Sept. 15, 2008. You must complete and submit your scorecard by Dec. 1, 2008 to receive your credits in early January 2009. Instructions for how to take the scorecard online will be included in the package you receive late next month.
If you have any questions about the personal scorecard, see your local benefits representative.