DE HCR43

Encourages State of Delaware employees to make informed health care decisions during the 2019 Benefits Open Enrollment period (May 6-24) for the plan year beginning July 1, 2019

Highlights that nearly 1 in 5 GHIP members (approximately 23,618 people) had diabetes or pre-diabetes treatment in fiscal year 2018, costing over $141 million and representing 16% of total health care expenditures

Recommends employees use non-hospital affiliated freestanding facilities for outpatient lab work and imaging services, and reserve emergency room visits for true emergencies like chest pain or uncontrolled bleeding

Encourages employees to establish a Primary Care Provider, participate in wellness programs including the Diabetes Prevention Program, and utilize alternatives like the 24/7 Nurse Line, telemedicine, and urgent care for non-emergencies

Emphasizes that informed consumer choices are necessary to control rising health care costs and maintain affordable benefit options for the future