MIBluesPerspectives Fall 2020 COVID-19 Toolkit
Amy Barczy
| 3 min read
Amy Barczy is a former brand journalist who authored content at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Prior to her time at Blue Cross from 2019-2024, she was a statewide news reporter for MLive.com. She has a decade of storytelling experience in local news media markets including Lansing, Grand Rapids, Holland, Ann Arbor and Port Huron.
The seasons may be changing, but the COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a presence in everyday life. While the future may hold plenty of uncertainty, steps we all can take to keep ourselves, our families and our communities healthy and safe are the same: wash your hands, wear a face covering in public and stay six feet apart. MIBluesPerspectives, supported by doctors and experts at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, is here to help. Find daily updates on the latest pandemic news and restrictions here: COVID-19: What You Need to Know. A wealth of resources is available on this page to guide you through this latest season of change.
Manage Your Physical Health
Staying healthy is top of mind this year during the pandemic – which is why it’s more important than ever to stay up to date on doctor’s visits and routine vaccinations:
- Don’t Skip Your Child’s Doctor Visits This Year
- People with Asthma Should Take Extra Precautions During COVID-19
- The Difference Between COVID-19 and the Flu
- To Help Fight Coronavirus, Get a Flu Shot
Prioritize Your Mental Health
Find a wealth of doctor-reviewed resources and articles in this curated toolkit from MIBluesPerspectives:
Get to Know Your Health Plan Coverage
Keeping up with your physical and mental health means getting to know your health plan coverage. Members with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan or Blue Care Network insurance can find a primary care provider by logging into their member account online at bcbsm.com, using Blue Cross’ Find a Doctor tool or downloading the BCBSM mobile app.
Finding a mental health provider in your network also works the same way. Members with Blue Cross insurance can start by calling the BCBSM Behavioral Health Services phone number on the back of their member I.D. card. Blue Care Network members can call the number on the back of their insurance card, (800) 482-5982 24/7, and get referrals for providers conducting telehealth groups related to COVID-19. The call center clinical team will direct members with information and referrals.
Supporting Caregivers at Home
The COVID-19 pandemic may have altered care plans for older adults or family members, and caregivers may find themselves with increased demands and responsibilities as a result.
- 6 Steps for Adjusting to Your New Role as a Caregiver
- Care for the Caregiver: Tips for Balance When You’re Caring for an Adult
- Combating Caregiver Isolation and Loneliness
- COVID-19 Home Cleaning Checklist
- The Impact of Caregiving on Mental and Physical Health
Supporting Families at Home
Families with children are making difficult choices about how to approach school this year due to the pandemic.
- COVID-19 Home Cleaning Checklist
- How to Respectfully Engage on Social Media When Your Opinions Differ
- Meeting the Unique Needs of Students During Pandemic
- Preparing Children for a New School Year in a Pandemic
- Supporting the Mental Health and Well-Being of Michigan Students
Solutions to Manage Stress and Anxiety
Prioritizing self-care can help you manage your stress and anxiety. Here are some ways to incorporate stress management techniques into your everyday life:
- Building Resilience: How to Flex Your Mental Muscle
- Find the Motivation to Get Things Done
- Good Mood Foods: What to Eat to Feel Fantastic
- How Yoga Breathing Can Reduce Your Stress Level
- Managing Social Anxiety During and After COVID-19
- Mental Health and Movement: How Running Boosts Your Mood
- Relax Your Mind with These Popular Meditation Styles
- Tips for Staying Substance-Free During a Pandemic
- Using Your 5 Senses to Calm Anxiety
Photo credit: stevecoleimages
