health reform and you - healthy san francisco · your life, but do it more than three or four hours...
TRANSCRIPT
N E W S A N D U P D AT E S S u m m e r 2 0 13
A Publication for Healthy San Francisco Participants
Prsrt StdUS Postage
PaidFairfield, CAPermit No 8
201 Third Street, 7th FloorSan Francisco, CA 94103www.healthysanfrancisco.org
Working together for your health
1260 HSF 011319051
As we’ve always said, health insurance is better than Healthy San Francisco. Remember
that with insurance you can receive services outside of San Francisco. We want all participants eligible for health insurance to get it.
So, now is the time to start making sure that you know how to take advantage of federal health reform.
Later this year, we’ll be sending all participants a letter informing them about the health insurance options and how to get more information. We’ll also have information available at your medical home.
One option is Medi-Cal, California’s public health insurance program. It will be expanded to enroll many more uninsured adults.
The other option is “Covered California.” Covered California is for people who are not eligible for Medi-Cal. Through Covered California, uninsured individuals will be able to go to a website and shop for the health insurance plan that’s just right for them. You can learn more at www.coveredca.com.
This summer, fall, and winter, Covered California will launch its statewide marketing, outreach and education campaigns. Be on the lookout for the “Covered California” booth or outreach worker when you attend community events, festivals, etc. We encourage you to learn more.
For those Healthy San Francisco
participants who are not required to have health insurance, you can stay enrolled and continue to get health care services through Healthy San Francisco.
Together, we’ll make federal health reform a reality in San Francisco.
Health Reform andHave you moved?To update your information, call Customer Service at (415) 615-4555.
-cigarettes are electronic cigarettes that use batteries. Many of them look like real
cigarettes. Many companies say that e-cigarettes are a safe alternative to smoking, but they are not. They are not healthy.
They have harmful and addictive chemicals and most have nicotine.
Claims made by companies selling these products have not been tested or approved by health experts. There are no regulations for e-cigarettes. What is in them often varies considerably from what is promised on the packaging. Soon, e-cigarettes might be regulated just like cigarettes.
If you are not a smoker, don’t start. If you do smoke, you are at a higher risk of stroke, heart attack, and lung cancer. Quitting is not easy but you can do it. Set a quit date. Tell family, friends, and coworkers that you are going to quit. Plan for the challenges you will have when trying to quit. Remove cigarettes and other tobacco products from your home, car and work. Talk to your provider about getting help to quit.
Renewing your Healthy San Francisco enrollment
ensures that you will continue receiving Healthy San Francisco services. We’ll send your renewal notice before your renewal date so you’ll have enough time to respond. If you’ve moved, please call us to update your information.
Is It Time to Renew?
One of the best ways to explore San Francisco and get some great exercise is to walk to and through the many, often hidden, stairways of the city.
Most are lined with gardens and benches along the way and offer stunning views of the city and Bay. Well known to tourist are the steps along the famous, curviest street, Lombard in Russian Hill, but there are many others.
At Telegraph Hill you’ll find the popular Filbert and Greenwich Street staircases leading up to Coit Tower with gardens of roses and irises and trees filled with the famous wild parrots. At the tops of the staircase is a panoramic view of the bay and the city. You can start at either Filbert or Greenwich Street and Sansome.
In the Inner Sunset is the 16th Avenue steps. This stairway is covered in mosaic tiles. This staircase was inspired by the decorated steps that lead up a long hill to the neighborhood of Santa Teresa, in Rio de
Janeiro, Brazil.
In the Presidio, the Lyon Street steps lead from Pacific Heights through the Presidio Park down to the Palace of Fine Arts. Highlights include the tiered gardens and breathtaking views of the ocean. You can start at Lyon and Broadway. Enjoy!
Explore the Stairways of San Francisco
E-cigarettes Not Safe Substitute
Once you receive your renewal notice, don’t wait! Call Customer Service at (415) 615-4555 to schedule an appointment.
You’ll need to bring the following documents to your appointment:
• Picture ID
• Proof of address
• Proof of income for everyone living in your house
• Proof of savings
If you fail to renew by your renewal date, you will lose your benefits.
LEARN MORE AT SMOKEFREE.GOV OR CALL (800) QUIT-NOW.
In less than eight months, many – but not all – uninsured Healthy San Francisco participants will be required to have health insurance starting January 2014.
you
Good news! You may be entitled to medical care and benefits through
the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). With the mission of making health care services accessible and affordable for all San Francisco residents, Healthy San Francisco is collaborating with the VA to reach out to
every person who has served in the military to acquaint them with veterans’ health benefits.
Eligible veterans have the choice to enroll at no cost in the VA health care program. It is possible to enroll in both HSF and the VA health care program.
Some advantages of the VA health care program include:
• Cost savings
• Access to the San Francisco VA downtown clinic
• Specialty, emergency room, and inpatient care.
Are You a Veteran?
Know Your VA Benefits
To learn more AND enroll in the Veterans Affairs program, visit the San Francisco VA Downtown Clinic or call (415) 281-5100.
N E W S A N D U P D AT E S S u m m e r 2 0 13
more read
Are You a Veteran? Are You a Veteran?
Know Your Know Your VA BenefitsVA Benefits
19054SFHP_fall_v7.indd 1 8/12/13 2:23 PM
Welcome to HeartBeat,your Healthy San Francisco newsletter
Summer is in the air and this means more fun in the sun.
In this issue of HeartBeat, we provide information on Sunday Streets events and where
to look for events happening this summer. We also talk about how important it is to
be prepared before you go out for an outdoor walk or hike. Make sure you have the
following with you: water, sun block, snacks, map, and medications. Create your own
“outdoor activity checklist” and have an enjoyable and safe activity.
By now, you know that prevention is critical to staying healthy so it comes as no
surprise that we again stress the importance of quitting smoking. It’s bad for your
wallet, and worse for your health. The benefits from quitting smoking include financial
savings and reduced risk of heart disease. Some of you might have heard of a new
“alternative” to smoking tobacco cigarettes called electric cigarettes (or e-cigarettes).
Don’t be fooled. E-cigarettes look like tobacco cigarettes, have nicotine, and simulate
the act of tobacco smoking. They are not a proven safe way to help you quit smoking;
the benefits and risks are still being studied. We provide key information that you
should know.
Over the past several years, we have heard a lot about health services for our nation’s
veterans. This issue of HeartBeat features an article on the partnership between Healthy
San Francisco and San Francisco Veteran Affairs (VA) Medical Center. Veterans who do
not have VA health insurance are eligible for Healthy San Francisco. But, both Healthy
San Francisco and the VA want to make sure that our veterans know about and use
the range of VA health benefits. This partnership helps inform Healthy San Francisco
participants who are veterans about their VA health benefits.
Make sure to keep up to date on health reform and renew on time. As always,
remember we’re working together for your health.
Barbara Garcia, MPA
Director of Health
San Francisco Department of Public HealthPermission to reprint all or part of an article must be
obtained from Healthy San Francisco.Healthy San Francisco
Attn.: Joe Zesiger, HSF HeartBeat Editor201 Third Street, 7th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94103-3146Customer Service (415) 615-4555
[email protected] Healthy San Francisco online at
www.healthysanfrancisco.org.
San Francisco Departmentof Public Health
Barbara Garcia, Director of HealthSan Francisco Department of Public Health
Eileen ShieldsPublic Information Officer
San Francisco Health Commission
Sonia Melara, M.S.W.President
Catherine M. Waters, RN, Ph.D. Vice President
Edward A. Chow, M.D.Commissioner
Cecilia ChungCommissioner
David J. Sanchez Jr., Ph.D. Commissioner
Belle Taylor-McGheeCommissioner
ProductionJoe Zesiger
Co-Editor/Communications Specialist
Yvonne LeeCo-Editor/Marketing Specialist
Lisa LukeManager of Marketing &
Creative Services
Anna LeMonManager of Health Education &
Cultural Linguistic Services
Published byWax Custom Communications
www.waxcom.com
Welcome to Welcome to Welcome to
Summer is here and it is time to go out and enjoy the weather. Remember that while you are out enjoying yourself, it is important to also protect yourself from the weather.
Here is a check list of things that you should keep with you, to help stay healthy during the summer.
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen (SPF 45 will block out 98% of UV rays)
• Lip balm (pick one with sunscreen in it)
• Bottled water
• Light snacks (trail mix, small bag of veggies etc.)
• Light sweater
• Medication
• Back pack or school bag (to carry everything)
Sleep is important for your health. Getting enough sleep improves your learning skills and
memory, and it can help your immune system stay strong. Sleep can also help you feel happier and less stressed. Not getting enough sleep can cause you to gain weight. It can put you at a higher risk for many diseases and health problems.
Most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Kids need between nine and 11 hours a night and newborns need up to 18 hours a day.
It’s easy not to get the sleep you need. Stress, worries or too many activities can make us lose sleep. Working nights or different shifts
for the Outdoors?
Ask the doctor
can also cause sleep problems. Having children or pets sleep in the same bed with us can also make it difficult. Sometimes pains make it hard to sleep. Tobacco, caffeine, alcohol and other drugs, including medicines, can also disrupt sleep.
Making small changes will make a big difference:
Keep your bedroom quiet, dark, and cool. Your bed should be comfortable. Take out any TVs or computers if possible. Try a sleep mask or earplugs if light or sound bothers you at night.
Go to bed and wake up at about the same time every day, even on weekends.
Use your bed only for rest, sleep and sex.
Make exercise a regular part of your life, but do it more than three or four hours before bedtime.
Stay away from sugar, caffeine, and alcohol before bed.
Keep an eye on your weight. Being overweight can cause sleep programs.
If you can’t fall asleep within 20 minutes, try these relaxation exercises:
Deep breathing. Close your eyes – and try taking a few deep, slow breaths.
Progressive muscle relaxation. Tighten and relax each muscle in your body. You can begin at your toes and work your way up to your head.
Try to imagine a quiet place. Close your eyes and think of a place or activity that makes you feel calm. Think about how relaxed this place or activity makes you feel.
It’s important to help kids get the sleep they need, too. Set up a bedtime routine to help them get ready for bed. For example, read together, cuddle or listen to soft music for 15 to 30 minutes before it’s time for bed.
Try these tips and keep a sleep diary. If you have problems sleeping, talk to your provider.
How much sleep do I need?
Spend Sunday in the streets! Sunday
Streets is a San Francisco community
event. The city picks a Sunday and
they also pick a street. They shut down the
street for several hours so it is car-free. Cars
cannot ride on the street. There are many
things to do on these days! People can ride
their bikes. They can walk, run and even
dance. Many times, people do yoga on the
street. Businesses and community groups
come to the event as well to show people
how they can help them be healthy.
Sunday Streets makes it easy for you to have
fun in the city. You can spend time with
your family and friends and you can meet
new people. You will also get a workout.
You should come to Sunday Streets.
Sunday Streets does not happen every
Sunday. A list of when and where to find
events for this year is online. Visit
www.sundaystreetssf.com to see the list.
Sunday Streets: One Street, Lots to Do
Ready
19054SFHP_fall_v7.indd 2 8/12/13 2:23 PM
Welcome to HeartBeat,your Healthy San Francisco newsletter
Summer is in the air and this means more fun in the sun.
In this issue of HeartBeat, we provide information on Sunday Streets events and where
to look for events happening this summer. We also talk about how important it is to
be prepared before you go out for an outdoor walk or hike. Make sure you have the
following with you: water, sun block, snacks, map, and medications. Create your own
“outdoor activity checklist” and have an enjoyable and safe activity.
By now, you know that prevention is critical to staying healthy so it comes as no
surprise that we again stress the importance of quitting smoking. It’s bad for your
wallet, and worse for your health. The benefits from quitting smoking include financial
savings and reduced risk of heart disease. Some of you might have heard of a new
“alternative” to smoking tobacco cigarettes called electric cigarettes (or e-cigarettes).
Don’t be fooled. E-cigarettes look like tobacco cigarettes, have nicotine, and simulate
the act of tobacco smoking. They are not a proven safe way to help you quit smoking;
the benefits and risks are still being studied. We provide key information that you
should know.
Over the past several years, we have heard a lot about health services for our nation’s
veterans. This issue of HeartBeat features an article on the partnership between Healthy
San Francisco and San Francisco Veteran Affairs (VA) Medical Center. Veterans who do
not have VA health insurance are eligible for Healthy San Francisco. But, both Healthy
San Francisco and the VA want to make sure that our veterans know about and use
the range of VA health benefits. This partnership helps inform Healthy San Francisco
participants who are veterans about their VA health benefits.
Make sure to keep up to date on health reform and renew on time. As always,
remember we’re working together for your health.
Barbara Garcia, MPA
Director of Health
San Francisco Department of Public HealthPermission to reprint all or part of an article must be
obtained from Healthy San Francisco.Healthy San Francisco
Attn.: Joe Zesiger, HSF HeartBeat Editor201 Third Street, 7th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94103-3146Customer Service (415) 615-4555
[email protected] Healthy San Francisco online at
www.healthysanfrancisco.org.
San Francisco Departmentof Public Health
Barbara Garcia, Director of HealthSan Francisco Department of Public Health
Eileen ShieldsPublic Information Officer
San Francisco Health Commission
Sonia Melara, M.S.W.President
Catherine M. Waters, RN, Ph.D. Vice President
Edward A. Chow, M.D.Commissioner
Cecilia ChungCommissioner
David J. Sanchez Jr., Ph.D. Commissioner
Belle Taylor-McGheeCommissioner
ProductionJoe Zesiger
Co-Editor/Communications Specialist
Yvonne LeeCo-Editor/Marketing Specialist
Lisa LukeManager of Marketing &
Creative Services
Anna LeMonManager of Health Education &
Cultural Linguistic Services
Published byWax Custom Communications
www.waxcom.com
Welcome to Welcome to Welcome to
Summer is here and it is time to go out and enjoy the weather. Remember that while you are out enjoying yourself, it is important to also protect yourself from the weather.
Here is a check list of things that you should keep with you, to help stay healthy during the summer.
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen (SPF 45 will block out 98% of UV rays)
• Lip balm (pick one with sunscreen in it)
• Bottled water
• Light snacks (trail mix, small bag of veggies etc.)
• Light sweater
• Medication
• Back pack or school bag (to carry everything)
Sleep is important for your health. Getting enough sleep improves your learning skills and
memory, and it can help your immune system stay strong. Sleep can also help you feel happier and less stressed. Not getting enough sleep can cause you to gain weight. It can put you at a higher risk for many diseases and health problems.
Most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Kids need between nine and 11 hours a night and newborns need up to 18 hours a day.
It’s easy not to get the sleep you need. Stress, worries or too many activities can make us lose sleep. Working nights or different shifts
for the Outdoors?
Ask the doctor
can also cause sleep problems. Having children or pets sleep in the same bed with us can also make it difficult. Sometimes pains make it hard to sleep. Tobacco, caffeine, alcohol and other drugs, including medicines, can also disrupt sleep.
Making small changes will make a big difference:
Keep your bedroom quiet, dark, and cool. Your bed should be comfortable. Take out any TVs or computers if possible. Try a sleep mask or earplugs if light or sound bothers you at night.
Go to bed and wake up at about the same time every day, even on weekends.
Use your bed only for rest, sleep and sex.
Make exercise a regular part of your life, but do it more than three or four hours before bedtime.
Stay away from sugar, caffeine, and alcohol before bed.
Keep an eye on your weight. Being overweight can cause sleep programs.
If you can’t fall asleep within 20 minutes, try these relaxation exercises:
Deep breathing. Close your eyes – and try taking a few deep, slow breaths.
Progressive muscle relaxation. Tighten and relax each muscle in your body. You can begin at your toes and work your way up to your head.
Try to imagine a quiet place. Close your eyes and think of a place or activity that makes you feel calm. Think about how relaxed this place or activity makes you feel.
It’s important to help kids get the sleep they need, too. Set up a bedtime routine to help them get ready for bed. For example, read together, cuddle or listen to soft music for 15 to 30 minutes before it’s time for bed.
Try these tips and keep a sleep diary. If you have problems sleeping, talk to your provider.
How much sleep do I need?
Spend Sunday in the streets! Sunday
Streets is a San Francisco community
event. The city picks a Sunday and
they also pick a street. They shut down the
street for several hours so it is car-free. Cars
cannot ride on the street. There are many
things to do on these days! People can ride
their bikes. They can walk, run and even
dance. Many times, people do yoga on the
street. Businesses and community groups
come to the event as well to show people
how they can help them be healthy.
Sunday Streets makes it easy for you to have
fun in the city. You can spend time with
your family and friends and you can meet
new people. You will also get a workout.
You should come to Sunday Streets.
Sunday Streets does not happen every
Sunday. A list of when and where to find
events for this year is online. Visit
www.sundaystreetssf.com to see the list.
Sunday Streets: One Street, Lots to Do
Ready
19054SFHP_fall_v7.indd 2 8/12/13 2:23 PM
Welcome to HeartBeat,your Healthy San Francisco newsletter
Summer is in the air and this means more fun in the sun.
In this issue of HeartBeat, we provide information on Sunday Streets events and where
to look for events happening this summer. We also talk about how important it is to
be prepared before you go out for an outdoor walk or hike. Make sure you have the
following with you: water, sun block, snacks, map, and medications. Create your own
“outdoor activity checklist” and have an enjoyable and safe activity.
By now, you know that prevention is critical to staying healthy so it comes as no
surprise that we again stress the importance of quitting smoking. It’s bad for your
wallet, and worse for your health. The benefits from quitting smoking include financial
savings and reduced risk of heart disease. Some of you might have heard of a new
“alternative” to smoking tobacco cigarettes called electric cigarettes (or e-cigarettes).
Don’t be fooled. E-cigarettes look like tobacco cigarettes, have nicotine, and simulate
the act of tobacco smoking. They are not a proven safe way to help you quit smoking;
the benefits and risks are still being studied. We provide key information that you
should know.
Over the past several years, we have heard a lot about health services for our nation’s
veterans. This issue of HeartBeat features an article on the partnership between Healthy
San Francisco and San Francisco Veteran Affairs (VA) Medical Center. Veterans who do
not have VA health insurance are eligible for Healthy San Francisco. But, both Healthy
San Francisco and the VA want to make sure that our veterans know about and use
the range of VA health benefits. This partnership helps inform Healthy San Francisco
participants who are veterans about their VA health benefits.
Make sure to keep up to date on health reform and renew on time. As always,
remember we’re working together for your health.
Barbara Garcia, MPA
Director of Health
San Francisco Department of Public HealthPermission to reprint all or part of an article must be
obtained from Healthy San Francisco.Healthy San Francisco
Attn.: Joe Zesiger, HSF HeartBeat Editor201 Third Street, 7th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94103-3146Customer Service (415) 615-4555
[email protected] Healthy San Francisco online at
www.healthysanfrancisco.org.
San Francisco Departmentof Public Health
Barbara Garcia, Director of HealthSan Francisco Department of Public Health
Eileen ShieldsPublic Information Officer
San Francisco Health Commission
Sonia Melara, M.S.W.President
Catherine M. Waters, RN, Ph.D. Vice President
Edward A. Chow, M.D.Commissioner
Cecilia ChungCommissioner
David J. Sanchez Jr., Ph.D. Commissioner
Belle Taylor-McGheeCommissioner
ProductionJoe Zesiger
Co-Editor/Communications Specialist
Yvonne LeeCo-Editor/Marketing Specialist
Lisa LukeManager of Marketing &
Creative Services
Anna LeMonManager of Health Education &
Cultural Linguistic Services
Published byWax Custom Communications
www.waxcom.com
Welcome to Welcome to Welcome to
Summer is here and it is time to go out and enjoy the weather. Remember that while you are out enjoying yourself, it is important to also protect yourself from the weather.
Here is a check list of things that you should keep with you, to help stay healthy during the summer.
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen (SPF 45 will block out 98% of UV rays)
• Lip balm (pick one with sunscreen in it)
• Bottled water
• Light snacks (trail mix, small bag of veggies etc.)
• Light sweater
• Medication
• Back pack or school bag (to carry everything)
Sleep is important for your health. Getting enough sleep improves your learning skills and
memory, and it can help your immune system stay strong. Sleep can also help you feel happier and less stressed. Not getting enough sleep can cause you to gain weight. It can put you at a higher risk for many diseases and health problems.
Most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Kids need between nine and 11 hours a night and newborns need up to 18 hours a day.
It’s easy not to get the sleep you need. Stress, worries or too many activities can make us lose sleep. Working nights or different shifts
for the Outdoors?
Ask the doctor
can also cause sleep problems. Having children or pets sleep in the same bed with us can also make it difficult. Sometimes pains make it hard to sleep. Tobacco, caffeine, alcohol and other drugs, including medicines, can also disrupt sleep.
Making small changes will make a big difference:
Keep your bedroom quiet, dark, and cool. Your bed should be comfortable. Take out any TVs or computers if possible. Try a sleep mask or earplugs if light or sound bothers you at night.
Go to bed and wake up at about the same time every day, even on weekends.
Use your bed only for rest, sleep and sex.
Make exercise a regular part of your life, but do it more than three or four hours before bedtime.
Stay away from sugar, caffeine, and alcohol before bed.
Keep an eye on your weight. Being overweight can cause sleep programs.
If you can’t fall asleep within 20 minutes, try these relaxation exercises:
Deep breathing. Close your eyes – and try taking a few deep, slow breaths.
Progressive muscle relaxation. Tighten and relax each muscle in your body. You can begin at your toes and work your way up to your head.
Try to imagine a quiet place. Close your eyes and think of a place or activity that makes you feel calm. Think about how relaxed this place or activity makes you feel.
It’s important to help kids get the sleep they need, too. Set up a bedtime routine to help them get ready for bed. For example, read together, cuddle or listen to soft music for 15 to 30 minutes before it’s time for bed.
Try these tips and keep a sleep diary. If you have problems sleeping, talk to your provider.
How much sleep do I need?
Spend Sunday in the streets! Sunday
Streets is a San Francisco community
event. The city picks a Sunday and
they also pick a street. They shut down the
street for several hours so it is car-free. Cars
cannot ride on the street. There are many
things to do on these days! People can ride
their bikes. They can walk, run and even
dance. Many times, people do yoga on the
street. Businesses and community groups
come to the event as well to show people
how they can help them be healthy.
Sunday Streets makes it easy for you to have
fun in the city. You can spend time with
your family and friends and you can meet
new people. You will also get a workout.
You should come to Sunday Streets.
Sunday Streets does not happen every
Sunday. A list of when and where to find
events for this year is online. Visit
www.sundaystreetssf.com to see the list.
Sunday Streets: One Street, Lots to Do
Ready
19054SFHP_fall_v7.indd 2 8/12/13 2:23 PM
N E W S A N D U P D AT E S S u m m e r 2 0 13
A Publication for Healthy San Francisco Participants
Prsrt StdUS Postage
PaidFairfield, CAPermit No 8
201 Third Street, 7th FloorSan Francisco, CA 94103www.healthysanfrancisco.org
Working together for your health
1260 HSF 011319051
As we’ve always said, health insurance is better than Healthy San Francisco. Remember
that with insurance you can receive services outside of San Francisco. We want all participants eligible for health insurance to get it.
So, now is the time to start making sure that you know how to take advantage of federal health reform.
Later this year, we’ll be sending all participants a letter informing them about the health insurance options and how to get more information. We’ll also have information available at your medical home.
One option is Medi-Cal, California’s public health insurance program. It will be expanded to enroll many more uninsured adults.
The other option is “Covered California.” Covered California is for people who are not eligible for Medi-Cal. Through Covered California, uninsured individuals will be able to go to a website and shop for the health insurance plan that’s just right for them. You can learn more at www.coveredca.com.
This summer, fall, and winter, Covered California will launch its statewide marketing, outreach and education campaigns. Be on the lookout for the “Covered California” booth or outreach worker when you attend community events, festivals, etc. We encourage you to learn more.
For those Healthy San Francisco
participants who are not required to have health insurance, you can stay enrolled and continue to get health care services through Healthy San Francisco.
Together, we’ll make federal health reform a reality in San Francisco.
Health Reform andHave you moved?To update your information, call Customer Service at (415) 615-4555.
-cigarettes are electronic cigarettes that use batteries. Many of them look like real
cigarettes. Many companies say that e-cigarettes are a safe alternative to smoking, but they are not. They are not healthy.
They have harmful and addictive chemicals and most have nicotine.
Claims made by companies selling these products have not been tested or approved by health experts. There are no regulations for e-cigarettes. What is in them often varies considerably from what is promised on the packaging. Soon, e-cigarettes might be regulated just like cigarettes.
If you are not a smoker, don’t start. If you do smoke, you are at a higher risk of stroke, heart attack, and lung cancer. Quitting is not easy but you can do it. Set a quit date. Tell family, friends, and coworkers that you are going to quit. Plan for the challenges you will have when trying to quit. Remove cigarettes and other tobacco products from your home, car and work. Talk to your provider about getting help to quit.
Renewing your Healthy San Francisco enrollment
ensures that you will continue receiving Healthy San Francisco services. We’ll send your renewal notice before your renewal date so you’ll have enough time to respond. If you’ve moved, please call us to update your information.
Is It Time to Renew?
One of the best ways to explore San Francisco and get some great exercise is to walk to and through the many, often hidden, stairways of the city.
Most are lined with gardens and benches along the way and offer stunning views of the city and Bay. Well known to tourist are the steps along the famous, curviest street, Lombard in Russian Hill, but there are many others.
At Telegraph Hill you’ll find the popular Filbert and Greenwich Street staircases leading up to Coit Tower with gardens of roses and irises and trees filled with the famous wild parrots. At the tops of the staircase is a panoramic view of the bay and the city. You can start at either Filbert or Greenwich Street and Sansome.
In the Inner Sunset is the 16th Avenue steps. This stairway is covered in mosaic tiles. This staircase was inspired by the decorated steps that lead up a long hill to the neighborhood of Santa Teresa, in Rio de
Janeiro, Brazil.
In the Presidio, the Lyon Street steps lead from Pacific Heights through the Presidio Park down to the Palace of Fine Arts. Highlights include the tiered gardens and breathtaking views of the ocean. You can start at Lyon and Broadway. Enjoy!
Explore the Stairways of San Francisco
E-cigarettes Not Safe Substitute
Once you receive your renewal notice, don’t wait! Call Customer Service at (415) 615-4555 to schedule an appointment.
You’ll need to bring the following documents to your appointment:
• Picture ID
• Proof of address
• Proof of income for everyone living in your house
• Proof of savings
If you fail to renew by your renewal date, you will lose your benefits.
LEARN MORE AT SMOKEFREE.GOV OR CALL (800) QUIT-NOW.
In less than eight months, many – but not all – uninsured Healthy San Francisco participants will be required to have health insurance starting January 2014.
you
Good news! You may be entitled to medical care and benefits through
the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). With the mission of making health care services accessible and affordable for all San Francisco residents, Healthy San Francisco is collaborating with the VA to reach out to
every person who has served in the military to acquaint them with veterans’ health benefits.
Eligible veterans have the choice to enroll at no cost in the VA health care program. It is possible to enroll in both HSF and the VA health care program.
Some advantages of the VA health care program include:
• Cost savings
• Access to the San Francisco VA downtown clinic
• Specialty, emergency room, and inpatient care.
Are You a Veteran?
Know Your VA Benefits
To learn more AND enroll in the Veterans Affairs program, visit the San Francisco VA Downtown Clinic or call (415) 281-5100.
N E W S A N D U P D AT E S S u m m e r 2 0 13
more read
Are You a Veteran? Are You a Veteran?
Know Your Know Your VA BenefitsVA Benefits
19054SFHP_fall_v7.indd 1 8/12/13 2:23 PM
N E W S A N D U P D AT E S S u m m e r 2 0 13
A Publication for Healthy San Francisco Participants
Prsrt StdUS Postage
PaidFairfield, CAPermit No 8
201 Third Street, 7th FloorSan Francisco, CA 94103www.healthysanfrancisco.org
Working together for your health
1260 HSF 011319051
As we’ve always said, health insurance is better than Healthy San Francisco. Remember
that with insurance you can receive services outside of San Francisco. We want all participants eligible for health insurance to get it.
So, now is the time to start making sure that you know how to take advantage of federal health reform.
Later this year, we’ll be sending all participants a letter informing them about the health insurance options and how to get more information. We’ll also have information available at your medical home.
One option is Medi-Cal, California’s public health insurance program. It will be expanded to enroll many more uninsured adults.
The other option is “Covered California.” Covered California is for people who are not eligible for Medi-Cal. Through Covered California, uninsured individuals will be able to go to a website and shop for the health insurance plan that’s just right for them. You can learn more at www.coveredca.com.
This summer, fall, and winter, Covered California will launch its statewide marketing, outreach and education campaigns. Be on the lookout for the “Covered California” booth or outreach worker when you attend community events, festivals, etc. We encourage you to learn more.
For those Healthy San Francisco
participants who are not required to have health insurance, you can stay enrolled and continue to get health care services through Healthy San Francisco.
Together, we’ll make federal health reform a reality in San Francisco.
Health Reform andHave you moved?To update your information, call Customer Service at (415) 615-4555.
-cigarettes are electronic cigarettes that use batteries. Many of them look like real
cigarettes. Many companies say that e-cigarettes are a safe alternative to smoking, but they are not. They are not healthy.
They have harmful and addictive chemicals and most have nicotine.
Claims made by companies selling these products have not been tested or approved by health experts. There are no regulations for e-cigarettes. What is in them often varies considerably from what is promised on the packaging. Soon, e-cigarettes might be regulated just like cigarettes.
If you are not a smoker, don’t start. If you do smoke, you are at a higher risk of stroke, heart attack, and lung cancer. Quitting is not easy but you can do it. Set a quit date. Tell family, friends, and coworkers that you are going to quit. Plan for the challenges you will have when trying to quit. Remove cigarettes and other tobacco products from your home, car and work. Talk to your provider about getting help to quit.
Renewing your Healthy San Francisco enrollment
ensures that you will continue receiving Healthy San Francisco services. We’ll send your renewal notice before your renewal date so you’ll have enough time to respond. If you’ve moved, please call us to update your information.
Is It Time to Renew?
One of the best ways to explore San Francisco and get some great exercise is to walk to and through the many, often hidden, stairways of the city.
Most are lined with gardens and benches along the way and offer stunning views of the city and Bay. Well known to tourist are the steps along the famous, curviest street, Lombard in Russian Hill, but there are many others.
At Telegraph Hill you’ll find the popular Filbert and Greenwich Street staircases leading up to Coit Tower with gardens of roses and irises and trees filled with the famous wild parrots. At the tops of the staircase is a panoramic view of the bay and the city. You can start at either Filbert or Greenwich Street and Sansome.
In the Inner Sunset is the 16th Avenue steps. This stairway is covered in mosaic tiles. This staircase was inspired by the decorated steps that lead up a long hill to the neighborhood of Santa Teresa, in Rio de
Janeiro, Brazil.
In the Presidio, the Lyon Street steps lead from Pacific Heights through the Presidio Park down to the Palace of Fine Arts. Highlights include the tiered gardens and breathtaking views of the ocean. You can start at Lyon and Broadway. Enjoy!
Explore the Stairways of San Francisco
E-cigarettes Not Safe Substitute
Once you receive your renewal notice, don’t wait! Call Customer Service at (415) 615-4555 to schedule an appointment.
You’ll need to bring the following documents to your appointment:
• Picture ID
• Proof of address
• Proof of income for everyone living in your house
• Proof of savings
If you fail to renew by your renewal date, you will lose your benefits.
LEARN MORE AT SMOKEFREE.GOV OR CALL (800) QUIT-NOW.
In less than eight months, many – but not all – uninsured Healthy San Francisco participants will be required to have health insurance starting January 2014.
you
Good news! You may be entitled to medical care and benefits through
the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). With the mission of making health care services accessible and affordable for all San Francisco residents, Healthy San Francisco is collaborating with the VA to reach out to
every person who has served in the military to acquaint them with veterans’ health benefits.
Eligible veterans have the choice to enroll at no cost in the VA health care program. It is possible to enroll in both HSF and the VA health care program.
Some advantages of the VA health care program include:
• Cost savings
• Access to the San Francisco VA downtown clinic
• Specialty, emergency room, and inpatient care.
Are You a Veteran?
Know Your VA Benefits
To learn more AND enroll in the Veterans Affairs program, visit the San Francisco VA Downtown Clinic or call (415) 281-5100.
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