Better MSK Management = Better Quality of Life

Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions affect the muscles, bones, joints, and even areas such as nerves and tendons. These conditions can be short-term from an injury, or chronic, lasting for several months or more. Either way, MSK conditions can lead to serious issues with mobility and spinal alignment and can make even the smallest day-to-day tasks seem hard.

MSK conditions are very common among teachers, who often stand for long hours and face ongoing stress and fatigue. According to a survey by the Arizona Education Association, 42% of teachers reported having MSK problems in the past year, and 16% said they had to take time off work because of them.

MSK conditions can also have a significant impact on healthcare costs. The total cost for MSK-related care through the state's public school system is estimated at $126 million.

Your employees deserve care & support for MSK pain. With AZ Blue, you’ll have a dedicated partner to help your district employees better manage and even overcome their MSK conditions. Here are just a few of the benefits and programs our members can take advantage of:

• Blue Distinction Total Care – Through this program, members have access to the nation's largest network of providers who offer high-quality, coordinated, and cost-effective care.
• Doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare professionals work together to improve your employees' health outcomes and reduce your costs.
• It has been shown to decrease the cost trend by more than 30%.
• Blue Distinction Specialty Care – Blue Distinction Specialty Care centers offer high-quality and affordable in-network care by recognizing doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities that have a history of delivering exceptional patient results. Results include:
• Average savings of more than 20% per episode
• 21% savings and 9% lower procedure complications for knee and hip replacements
• 22% savings and 47% fewer repeat operations for spine surgeries
• Hinge Health – From sprains and chronic pain to surgical rehab, members get expert clinical care that’s personalized to their specific MSK needs in just one app. Their approach is so effective, data show that 1 in 2 MSK surgeries are avoided, and participants experience:
• 68% average reduction in pain
• 58% average reduction in depression and anxiety
• 42% reduction in new opioid prescriptions

Your district employees deserve a plan that fully supports their MSK health and overall well-being. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help reduce their pain and improve their quality of life.