Women’s programs at three major corporations
Emphasis on wellness, filling coverage gaps
The following three companies have taken a leading role in partnering with managed care organizations to provide health services specific to the needs of their female employees:
1. Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae).
In addition to its groundbreaking osteoporosis program, the first in the nation to offer free bone density screening to employees and their families, Washington, DC-based Fannie Mae has implemented a Women’s Health Initiative that includes women’s health education classes and workshops, a breast-feeding/lactation program, and a family resource service. In addition, Fannie Mae maintains a Women’s Health Resource Center containing a computerized medical library, videos, books, and patient education handouts designed to improve self-care.
The company also contracts with various insurers to provide 100% coverage for mammograms and Pap smears. Other prevention programs include a preconception planning service and a healthy babies program, both of which are designed to prepare families for the responsibilities of childbirth. Fannie Mae’s Partnership for Healthy Living offers individual health assessments, group feedback sessions, and a 12-week exercise and nutrition education program.
2. Federal Express.
Based in Memphis, TN, Federal Express offers employees a choice of several types of health care plans, including both managed care and traditional fee-for-service. In locations where employees don’t have access to a managed care option, the company provides its own preventive health care services through its corporate wellness program. For its employees in Alaska who lack a managed care option, the company provides mammogram and Pap smear vouchers that allow them to access these services for a small copayment.
One focus of Federal Express’ disease management programs has been mental health, including substance abuse. Indeed, the company covers all employees, regardless of the health plan they choose, under its Mental Health/Substance Abuse Program, which features screening and treatment for depression, eating disorders, and panic/anxiety disorders.
Federal Express also offers a Maternity Education Program, developed in-house and administered by a third-party payer.
3. Johnson & Johnson.
Under its flexible benefits program, New Brunswick, NJ-based Johnson & Johnson developed a Point-of-Service option that includes the following preventive services:
• routine mammograms;
• breast exam;
• pelvic exam;
• Pap smears;
• physical exam;
• routine eye and hearing exams;
• pediatric immunizations;
• colonoscopy.
Female employees also are covered for prescription contraceptives and are offered direct access without referral to an OB/GYN.
The company’s wellness program includes employee assistance in the form of counseling for personal, marital, and family issues, as well as health risk assessments, health risk management programs, and exercise reimbursement programs. The company also offers employees a $500 discount on annual health plan contributions if they participate in a health profile and any wellness or education programs recommended for them.
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