StigmaFreeAZ - Provider Newsletter October, 2023

As part of our mission to inspire health and make it easy, Blue Cross^® Blue Shield^® of Arizona (AZ Blue) has launched a campaign addressing stigma around behavioral health. Stigma, both self-directed and from others, perpetuates the negative attitudes and behaviors toward people experiencing mental health issues and substance use disorders.

Take the #StigmaFreeAZ pledge–and share it with others!

Please join us in our effort to normalize and remove barriers to mental health care. It starts with a commitment—a pledge—to reduce stigma. The #StigmaFreeAZ pledge is one step we can all take in the right direction. You’ll find the pledge on our Reduce Stigma page, plus helpful resources such as a short video and our Person-First Language Guide.

Take the pledge by entering your name, county, and email address (optional). Then spread the word. You can help us create awareness by encouraging your patients and office staff to take the pledge too. Post information about the pledge in your exam rooms. If you share on your social media platforms, please use the hashtag #StigmaFreeAZ.

Check it out and pledge your support!
Reduce Stigma | Behavioral Health | AZBlue

Why is this campaign important?

Mental health matters. You’ve most likely witnessed firsthand that stigma prevents many people from seeking and receiving care that would help them live healthier and happier. Be open to listening and asking questions with empathy. As a provider, you’re in a unique position to influence patients who are experiencing mental health or substance use issues to talk with someone who can help.

There are many options. For instance, they can see a behavioral health professional for therapy. Or they can join a group counseling session for structured peer support. AZ Blue members can learn more and find a complete list of health care providers affiliated with their network at azblue.com/behavioral-health.

Help change the conversation and foster connection

We’re committed to educating Arizonans on stigma and person-first language, directing them to resources, and encouraging them to take the pledge to create a culture of compassion and understanding around behavioral health. In addition, the campaign supports our AZ Blue Behavioral Health Action Plan and our goal of engaging 525,000 Arizonans in improving behavioral health by 2025.

Every pledge counts! By working together, providers, community leaders, and all Arizonans can make a difference—and create a more compassionate Arizona. Be one of the first to take the #StigmaFreeAZ pledge today!

In This Issue

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October news: Executive summary

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Prosano benefit plans for employer groups for 2024

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RSV, COVID-19, and influenza vaccine coverage

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Changes to Part B Step Therapy program

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Take the #StigmaFreeAZ pledge and spread the word

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Be sure to ask, "When was your last mammogram?"

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CMS: Notifying MA enrollees of provider terminations

Get an update on the AZ 988
Crisis Response Performance

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