InCharge September October 2013 Newsletter

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Issue 5
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S e p t e m b e r / O c to b e r 2 01 3
in Charge
Power to live life to the fullest
Look Better,
Feel Better and
Keep the Weight Off
by Eating This
Super Food
Pages 4-5
Is Your Daily Routine
Putting You at Risk
for the “Big C”?
Pages 6-7
Special Benefits Edition: Check out the
improvements to the 2014 Healthy Living requirements,
learn about the Health Insurance Marketplace and what
it means to you, and more…(Pages 8, 10-11).
DTE Energy Open Enrollment is from
October 21 – November 1, 2013.
It’s Tailgating Time!
But Before You Grill,
read This!
Page 13
OMG!
Distracted
s
Driving
is Nothing
to LOL About!
Page 16
DTE Energy employee and family enjoying
DTE Energy’s Take a Walk on the Wild Side event.
in ChargE SPARKS!
in ChargE
Editor-in-Chief:
Susan M. Bailey, MS, CHES, CIC, SPHR
Manager ~ Wellness and Health Promotion
Editorial Assistant:
Jennifer Lovequist, MA, CIC ~
Health Improvement Specialist
Medical Editor:
Joel Kahn, MD ~
Director of Cardiac Wellness,
Michigan Healthcare Professionals;
Clinical Professor of Medicine, Wayne State
University School of Medicine
Contributing Editors:
Fuel Up and Feel Better:
Lillian Korbus, RD, CIC, RYT ~
Health Improvement Specialist
In Motion:
Nick Batanian, MS, CIC, HFS ~
EYL Program Coordinator
Nuts and Bolts of Healthcare:
Doug Green ~ Manager of Health, Welfare
and Occupational Health
Financial Wellness:
Elizabeth Pochini ~ Manager, Retirement
Income Benefits
Important Contact Information
Energize Your Life:
313.235.6229 / eyl@dteenergy.com
Your Benefits Resource Center (Hewitt):
866.899.4383 / www.ybr.com/dteenergy
RedBrick Health
866.261.7144 / www.redbrickhealth.com/login
DTE Benefits Hotline:
877.687.2638 / Ben_admin@dteenergy.com
WellLIFE EAP Counseling Services:
888.327.4347
DTE Energy Affiliate Companies:
800.969.6162
J.P. Morgan Retirement Plan Services
800.345.2345 / www.retireonline.com
GO GREEN!
Would you prefer to receive this newsletter
electronically?
E-mail us at: eyl@dteenergy.com
Information in this newsletter is provided for informational
purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice
provided by your own physician, dietitian and your
financial or tax advisor.
SMALL STEPS That Can Ignite BIG RESULTS
You’re busy, always on the go and life can be a bit hectic. You don’t have much
free time to spare, so we’ve gone ahead and collected some key ideas, tips
and action steps from this issue—the SPARKS—to living with high energy,
good health and passion for life!
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PEDAL PAIN-FREE by stretching your calf
muscles, activating your core and unlocking
your hips before biking.
Aim to EAT REAL—focus on
food that has healthy, tasty, whole
ingredients and provides essential
nutrients for health.
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Don’t get caught behind
the 8-ball—SCHEDULE
YOUR 2014 HEALTHy
LIVING PHYSICAL today!
You are part of the healthcare
cost solution—the individual
choices you make about your
healthcare have a collective
impact, so CHOOSE WISELY.
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Fight the risk of the “Big C” by
FOLLOWING THE “BIG 12”—from
keeping weight off and eating a
healthy diet to limiting alcohol and
high-heat cooking—your daily habits
can be your best protection.
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Take your relationship off
auto-pilot and NURTURE it
for a stronger, safer more caring
and committed relationship.
DON’T IGNITE CANCER—marinate
meat before you grill.
PROTECT YOUR KIDS against obesity and
disease by raising food-smart kids.
Hands-free phones are no safer than hand-held phones
when it comes to driving, so HANG UP AND DRIVE.
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Take charge of your financial
future by MAXIMIZING
YOUR NEW 401(K) PLAN
FEATURES.
Special EAP Notice
Employees and immediate family members who are having difficulty dealing with a variety of life issues can participate in our WellLIFE Employee
Assistance Program (EAP), available through Henry Ford Health Services, on a 24/7 basis. WellLIFE EAP professionals provide free confidential
counseling and referral services and can help you or family members with situations causing stress and anxiety in your life. If you or someone you love
is in need of these services, contact one of the following numbers to make an appointment: Toll-free: 888.327.4347/ After Hours Crisis Line: 313.468.2000.
in Charge
September/October 2013
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In Motion
myHealth Success
A Personal Journey That Turned
into Much More
Through her interviews, EYL Health Improvement Specialist,
Lillian Korbus, RD, CIC, RYT, shares inspiring stories from
DTE Energy employees who have made significant health
changes in their lives.
Just over five years ago after a visit to his
doctor, Mike realized that he needed to make a change.
He had chronic low back and knee pain. His doctor felt
knee surgery was imminent unless something changed.
He also was a two and a half pack-a-day smoker and
out of shape. Mike talked with his wife, who was
dealing with diabetes, and they decided they
needed to ‘do something.’
From Mike’s solo efforts in
2009 (described to left),
Ride United has continued
to grow as more cyclists
step forward to support
their community and
test their endurance by
completing the challenge.
Mike started his health quest by learning
about diet and health through a program
in his community, which resulted in an
88-pound weight loss! He also quit
smoking and started exercising.
‘Find your passion and live it’
~ Mike
Shortly after his pledge to ‘get healthy,’ Mike purchased bikes
for the two of them. It dawned on him that exercise was a key
health ingredient—the more they rode, the greater the weight loss.
A year after biking, he was challenged by someone in his
office in Mt. Pleasant to ride his bike to work from Kentwood (over
100 miles). Mike accepted the offer with the caveat that money be
raised to help others pay their utility bills. This was the start of
Ride United, currently in its 5th year.
‘You never know when you are
impacting someone else’
~ Mike
In addition to the Ride United event, Mike also participates in the
Make-A-Wish 300 mile bike tour. The Make-A-Wish kids are full
of heartfelt gratitude, which drives Mike’s motivation further. At
the same time, he has inspired many folks while riding and is a role
model for his grandkids. More importantly, Mike tells story after
story about being inspired, often beyond words, while he is
in nature on the ride.
Mike Demos
Supervisor – Gas Operations
Mt. Pleasant Service Center
DTE Energy Employee for 13 years
Ride United is now a
50/100-mile bike ride that
benefits Heart of West
Michigan United Way
and United Way of the
Lakeshore (Kent,
Muskegon, Newaygo,
& Oceana counties).
Although registration is
closed for the 2013 race
keep it in mind for 2014!
http://www.firstgiving.
com/62035/rideunited2013
The Results
The ability to give has supplied Mike with the motivation to keep going and
his health continues to reflect his efforts. In addition to the substantial
weight loss, Mike no longer needs knee surgery and his wife’s diabetes is
a thing of the past. He continues to keep his weight stable and hasn’t
smoked in years.
Thank you, Mike, for your time, talent and efforts. You are truly an
inspiration for others looking to make a difference. Note: If you are
interested in endurance biking or participating in a charity biking race,
please contact Mike Demos at 989.779.2915 or demosm@dteenergy.com.
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In Motion
Riding for Life
By: Sherry McLaughlin, MSPT, CSCS/MoveWell
Cycling is an excellent mode of alternative
transportation and it offers a low-impact option for
getting active, losing weight and getting in shape. But sometimes
even good things can cause aches and pains. Due to the bent over posture
of riding, many cyclists eventually suffer from lower back pain or IT
band friction syndrome, which is pain on the outside of the knee.
Training for a triathlon
or competitive bike race
in your community?
Join the EYL Road Warrior
Questlink community to receive
tips, training programs and ask
questions to trained professionals
about your events.
For information contact EYL.
But pain is not inevitable! It is possible to ride mile after mile pain-free
by understanding some basic principles. When you sit on the saddle,
you should feel like your weight is placed on the large bones of the
pelvis called “sit bones”. Inability to maintain this position can be
caused by tight hamstrings and weak core muscles.
As for the knee, remember that it is stuck in the middle with nowhere
to run and nowhere to hide. If you ride with clipless pedals, tightness
in your ankle gets transferred to your knees even more. To ensure
healthy knees while riding, make sure your toes are pointed straight
ahead and your hip, knee and ankle are all in the same line. The
biggest mistakes are allowing your knees to fall in or out, or your
toes to turn out. Inability to maintain this position may be a sign
that certain muscles are tight and/or weak. The good news is that
it’s fixable!
The body has the ability to relearn movement patterns very quickly
with a few simple pre-ride moves. Pain-free cycling and a more
powerful stroke can be achieved by performing three exercises prior
to getting in the saddle:
The gravity drop is a simple way to stretch out your calf muscles
and ensure your toes stay pointed straight ahead when you walk, run
or cycle. Grab a rolled up towel and stretch away.
The plank is one of the best ways to activate your core muscles and
give your spine some added support. Practice this move until you can
hold it for one minute without any lower back discomfort.
Finally, the revolving lateral angle is an excellent way to
unlock your hips and allow your knees to remain in line with your toes
as you pedal. It also increases the strength of your hip and thigh
muscles, adding some power into your stroke.
See visual descriptions of each exercise on the following page.
in Charge
September/October 2013
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Gravity Drop
1.Stand with balls of feet on a 3” thick book (i.e., phone book
or dictionary) with feet hip width apart, toes straight
ahead and heels on the floor.
2.Stick your chest out. Feel the stretch in the back of your
legs. Hold this position for 30 seconds.
3.Repeat three times.
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Plank
1.Assume a push-up position with your weight resting on your forearms and toes.
2.Keep your back straight and tighten your abdomen muscles.
3.Maintain this position for 30-60 seconds.
4.Repeat three times.
Before starting any exercise program, it is always a good
idea to talk with your primary healthcare provider.
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Revolving Lateral Angle
1.Stand with feet wider than shoulder width apart.
2.Turn your right foot to the right and your left foot to the right, and lower into a lunge position.
3.Place your left hand inside of your right foot.
4.Reach your right arm up towards the sky, making a straight line
from hand to hand. Gaze toward your right middle finger and take
five deep breaths (30 seconds).
5.Repeat on other side.
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september/october 2013
in Charge
FUEL U P
National
Food Day is a nationwide celebration of healthy, affordable and sustainably
produced food and a grassroots campaign for better food policies. It aims to help people Eat Real.
That means cutting back on sugar drinks, overly salted packaged foods and fatty, factory-farmed
October 24
meats in favor of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and sustainably-raised protein.
The most important ingredient in Food Day, however, is you! Use
October 24 to start—or celebrate—eating a healthier diet and putting
your family’s diet on track. A great way to do this is to incorporate a raw
“superfood” into your diet—such as kale. To support Food Day we offer
this spotlight on this up-and-coming nutritional powerhouse.
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Learn more at
www.foodday.org
Fruit & V
Spotlight: Why Kale is KING—
Discover This Underappreciated Super Food
(Sources: USDA, Men’s Fitness)
All hail to kale! This relative of the cabbage and broccoli family is emerging as a
Why Kale Matters
vital veggie—rich in nutrients, packing a powerful health punch and offering unique flavor.
Kale helps prevent the top 4 leading causes
So why exactly is kale becoming all the rage at grocery stores and farmer’s
markets around the country? Find out:
of death: cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular
disease, hypertension and MORE!
Protects against
Alzheimer’s
CommonTypes of Kale
Red Kale
Appearance: Frilly
oak shaped leaves that
are greenish purple in
color with red veins.
Taste: Its flavor is more
Strengthens
immune system
Natural
detoxifier
Promotes eye health
Offers
anti-inflammatory
benefits, such as
reducing arthritis
and asthma
Supports
weight loss
Aids
digestion
sweet than bitter, and its
leaves are more tender than
Curly Kale
most kale.
Appearance: Ruffled leaves
and a fibrous stalk. Usually
deep green in color.
Taste: It has a lively pungent
flavor with delicious bitter
peppery qualities.
Tuscon or Dinosaur Kale
Appearance: Dark blue-green
leaves, with an embossed
texture.
Taste: A slightly sweeter and
more delicate flavor than
curly kale.
Lowers
cholesterol
(when steamed)
Improves skin,
hair and nails
Strengthens
bones
in Charge
Kale Beats Out
Its Competitors!
5 Ways to Easily Add Kale to Your Diet
Per calories, kale has more:
iron than beef
calcium than milk
vitamin C than spinach
1.Separate the leaves from the thick stems, called deveining, and chop. The best way to devein is hold the bottom of the kale with one hand and then run your other hand up the stalk. (The leaves just fall off!)
blender + kale + apple + banana + pineapple + 3 ice cubes
Wrap It Up
WARNING! Because of the high
amounts of vitamin K, people taking
2.In a large bowl, mix kale with lemon juice, a drizzle of oil and a pinch of kosher salt.
kale + tomato + cucumber + carrots + avocado
doctor before eating kale.
Substitute in Salads
kale + spinach + pine nuts + tomato + 1 teaspoon gorgonzola
How It Built Its
Reputation as a
Nutritional Powerhouse
5
Preparation Tip
When Eating raw:
Be Smoothie
blood thinners should talk to their
September/October 2013
cheese + low-fat dressing
3.Massage for two to
three minutes until the kale starts to soften.
Get Steamy
HIGH in:
• Vitamins A, C and K
• Calcium
• Folic Acid
• Antioxidants
pot of boiling water + kale (removed from the thick stems and
chopped finely) + clove of garlic + cover, reduce heat and steam
for 10 minutes + add drizzle of olive oil + dash of salt and pepper
Potato Chip Alternative
LOW in:
• Calories
oven at 350 degrees + cookie sheet
• Fat
lined with parchment paper + cut kale
• Cholesterol
into bite size pieces + drizzle of olive
• Carbs
oil + sprinkle of seasoning salt + bake for 10
• Sugar
to 15 minutes until the edges are brown
How to Select
and Store Kale
• Look for firm, deep-colored leaves with moist firm stems.
Make Kale the
Main Attraction
Try in stews, pasta
dishes, stir fry’s and
veggie lasagna
• Leaves should look fresh, be unwilted and be free from signs of browning, yellowing, and small holes.
• Put in coldest part of fridge,
wrapped in plastic.
•The longer it is stored the more
bitter its flavor becomes.
• Do not wash kale before storing
because exposure to water
encourages spoilage.
Lemon, garlic, olive oil,
citrus, apple cider or
red wine vinegars.
LEMON!
To get the most health benefits
from kale, sprinkle with lemon
juice and let sit for a minimum
of five minutes before cooking
EYL WEBINAR:
“Maximize Your Metabolism:
It’s Not Just about What You Eat”
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Eating well isn’t only about what you eat. It’s about the state you
are in while eating. Eating fast, without pleasure, and labeling
food as good or bad all make a big impact on metabolism. Attend
the Maximize Your Metabolism webinar, presented by Lillian
Korbus, RD, Health Improvement Specialist, to learn more about
a holistic approach to nutrition and weight loss. DTE Energy
employees, spouses and retirees are invited to view this upcoming
online webinar:
Complimenting
Flavors Include:
Kale’s Best Friend:
WHEN: Tuesday, September 10, 2013
TIME: Noon – 1pm ET OR 8pm - 9pm ET
TO REGISTER: Go to www.dteenergy.com/eyl » My Learning
» RedBrick Health Webinars
Can’t attend or missed it? No problem!
Watch a recorded version at the link above.
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Power of prevention
c
Breast Can
a
er Aw
Reduce Your Risk of Cancer:
The “Big 12”
(Source: Adapted from University of California, Berkley)
There’s a lot of conflicting advice out there about what we should
do—or shouldn’t do—to decrease the risk of developing cancer.
That’s part of what makes cancer so scary. But most doctors agree that taking the
following 12 main steps can significantly reduce your risk of developing cancer.
Avoid Tobacco
Whether it’s cigarettes, cigars or chew, all
tobacco products cause cancer. Smoking
is the leading cause of premature, preventable death in the U.S. If you smoke,
quitting is by far the most important
step you can take to protect your health.
It’s never too late to quit.
Get Off The Couch and Move More
Activity not only plays a role in cancer
prevention by keeping the weight off, it
may reduce the risk by lowering certain
harmful hormone levels, improving
insulin resistance and strengthening the
immune system.
Drink Less Alcohol
The more you drink, the greater the
risk of cancer—especially of the mouth,
esophagus, throat and larynx. If you
drink, do so in moderation. Women
should consume no more than one
drink a day and men, no more than two.
Those over 65 should drink even less.
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Keep the Weight Off
Studies suggest that obesity contributes
to 14-20% of the cancer deaths of
Americans. Obesity is also linked to
chronic inflammation in the body, which
can help cancer develop and grow.
Limit High-Heat Cooking
Cooking high-protein foods (meat,
poultry, fish) over coals, flames and any
other high-heat method (such as pan
frying) can create compounds that cause
cancer. If you cook this way, pre-cook
meat in the microwave for a few minutes
and turn it frequently while cooking to
help reduce these harmful compounds.
(See other safe grilling tips to reduce
these compounds on page 13.)
Eat a Healthy Diet
Consume a high-fiber diet with at least
five servings of fruits and veggies daily,
limit red meat, pork and processed
meats and choose whole grains over
refined grains.
in Charge
Limit Sun Exposure
Ultraviolet radiation from the sun and
tanning beds are responsible for most of
the two million cases of skin cancer
diagnosed annually in the U.S. Used
properly, sunscreen reduces the risk of most
skin cancers. Be warned, most of us do not
use enough sunscreen or reapply as often as
needed. Be sure to apply correctly.
Test Your Home for Radon
A colorless, radioactive gas formed during
the natural breakdown of uranium in soil,
rocks and water, radon is related to about
15,000 to 20,000 annual lung cancer deaths
in the U.S. It gets into your home through
cracks and holes in floors, walls and
foundations. Testing is the only way to know
if your home has high radon levels. Home
testing kits are available at most hardware
and home improvement stores.
Decrease Your Workplace
Exposure to Carcinogens
Exposure to workplace carcinogens cause an
estimated 40,000 new cancer cases and
20,000 cancer deaths per year in the U.S. Be
sure to follow workplace safety policies and
wear protective gear if your job exposes you
to harmful toxins.
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September/October 2013
Limit Radiation from CT Scans
Americans, on average, are exposed to
six times more radiation from medical
imaging, especially CT scans, than they
were just three decades ago. Although the
risk from a properly done CT scan is low,
radiation exposure adds up over time.
Confirm the test is necessary and ask if
there is an equally good non-radiation
alternative such as an MRI or ultrasound.
Always discuss the pros and cons of an
imaging scan with your doctor before
getting one.
Test Your Water for Arsenic
If you live in a rural area and get your
water from a well, have it tested for this
odorless, tasteless chemical. Exposure to
high levels of arsenic has been associated
with bladder, kidney, liver and other forms
of cancer.
Limit Your Exposure to Air Pollution—
Outdoors and Indoors
One in 28,000 Americans may develop
cancer due to outdoor air pollutants. Go
to airnow.gov for local air quality reports
and stay indoors when air quality is bad.
Home air can often be more polluted than
outdoor air, due to tobacco smoke, moth
balls, cleaning products, wood burning
fireplaces and even scented candles and
air fresheners.
Burning Leaves Sparks Cancer Risk
As the leaves change color and fall to the ground, some areas enjoy the time-honored tradition of raking up their
leaves and burning them like a big bonfire. But burning leaves releases serious cancer-causing pollution. One of the
hazardous chemicals commonly present in leaf smoke is benzo(a)pyrene, which has been shown to cause cancer in animals
and is believed to be a major factor in lung cancer caused by cigarette smoke. Not to mention this type of smoke can cause
respiratory problems, headaches and other health issues. The tiny particles contained in this smoke can accumulate in the
lungs and stay there for years! Try composting the leaves or mulching them with your lawn mower instead.
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September/october 2013
in Charge
2014 Healthy
Living Requirements
It’s hard to believe it’s time again for open enrollment and
the Healthy Living program. Just under 70% of members
participated in the program in the 2013
The Healthy Living Program
plan year and remained at the Enhanced
Puts Your Health First—
Level—allowing them to pay less
helping you focus on achieving a few
key health-related requirements (such
out-of-pocket for their healthcare.
as having a physical exam and taking a
health assessment) that can have a
positive impact on your health for the
long run.
In return for choosing to participate and
completing these requirements, you receive special pricing under the health plan
for your out-of-pocket healthcare costs.
Although the specific requirements vary
slightly based on the medical plan in
which you are enrolled, the Healthy
Living requirements are based on the
same types of requirements that have
long applied to one of DTE Energy’s most
popular medical plans—the BCN Healthy
Blue Living HMO.
Get ready to enjoy the cost advantages,
as well as the peace of mind that you are
looking out for your health!
Congratulations!
As we look forward to the 2014 plan year, we are pleased to continue to offer the
Healthy Living Program, but with a few enhancements:
»
If you enroll in a PPO or CDHP plan and complete your requirements through RedBrick Health, you no longer have to fast when getting your blood drawn for your physical. We’ve changed the cholesterol and glucose metrics to
non-fasting metrics to make it easier for you to complete your physical.
» The RedBrick Health Annual Physical Screening form and the RedBrick
Health portal have been improved.
Don’t Get Caught Behind the 8-Ball!
Schedule Your Physical and Labs TODAY!
It can take months to get in to see a doctor for an annual physical
and preventive screenings so be sure to call TODAY to schedule your
appointment. Remember, you are eligible for one preventive physical per
calendar year, so if you already had a physical in 2013, schedule your physical after
January 1, 2014 so your physical will be covered at 100% by the Plan.
COMING to a MAILBOX Near You!
Check your mail in mid-October for the DTE Energy Benefits Enrollment Packet,
which will contain a summary of the 2014 Healthy Living Requirements.
IMPORTANT: Members of a 2014 HMO must refer to the
Healthy Living requirements outlined by the specific HMO,
found in the HMO Open Enrollment packet (mailing to homes
in early January) and on the given HMO website.
DTE Energy Benefits
Open Enrollment
October 21 – November 1
in Charge
September /October 2013
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The Impact of ONE:
How Your Individual Healthcare Choices Can
Have a Collective Effect
$
We all know the drill…you go to the doctor, get
a bill and pay a portion of the cost, depending on your
health plan. But who covers the remaining expense? The doctor?
Nope. The health insurance company? Nope. It’s DTE Energy.
My Rx Choices®
So every time an employee or their covered dependents enrolled in one
of our medical plans receives healthcare, DTE Energy is right there picking
up part of the cost. With almost 10,000 employees and another 18,000 in
covered dependents, you can imagine those costs add up quickly. In fact,
providing health care insurance to its employees is one of the most
expensive components of DTE Energy’s entire operation—spending nearly
$200 million dollars in 2012. And the more our employees use healthcare
services, the more the Company must spend—meaning the less money the
Company has to put toward other things, like staffing, employee training
programs, new technology and equipment.
So, think about what could happen if every single person enrolled in a
DTE Energy plan cut their personal healthcare costs just a little bit this
coming year by making more careful and wise decisions related to their
healthcare usage, such as:
cutting out unnecessary trips to the ER (and using the Urgent Care clinic or visiting their doctor instead),
Comparison Shop for Personalized Prescription Savings
Use this unique, patented tool to view your opportunities to cut
your prescription expenses.
With the My Rx Choices® prescription savings program, you can
comparison shop for lower-cost options for the medications
you take regularly. My Rx Choices® provides
personalized information based on your prescription
plan and medication requirements.
Express Scripts will contact your physician to request approval for the cost-saving equivalents you
find. And, each time you use My Rx Choices®
to select a lower-cost option, Express Scripts
will run a safety check to identify any issues
associated with your choices. Register today!
Visit www.express-scripts.com.
NEW! Download the Express Scripts mobile app free of charge
from your app store and use it on your smart phone to find the same
savings opportunities while you are at the doctor’s office!
filling prescriptions with suitable lower-cost
generics rather than the higher cost name brand drugs,
using mail-order home delivery service for maintenance medications,
comparison shopping the costs of certain services, such as imaging (CT scans, MRIs and X-rays), and
getting recommended preventive care and annual physicals to help identify any serious problems early, when they are easier and less expensive to treat.
If each person could cut a small portion of their own costs,
it would quickly add up to a significant amount of savings
for DTE Energy, allowing us to reinvest that money in other
important things that can improve the overall work experience
for our employees, as well as the services we provide to our
customers. The bottom line is: You DO make a difference.
Your choices DO matter. Choose and use wisely!
Available NOW!
“Understanding Self-Insurance” Course
When a company is self-insured, it means that the company
pays for its employees’ medical costs. In other words, the
company covers what the employee does not have to pay.
When a company’s medical costs increase, there is less money
available to pay for other costs, such as employee training,
staffing and other services. In this course you learn exactly how
your health and healthcare decisions affect the company and
their work environment.
Get started:
Visit www.redbrickhealth.com/login » Healthy Map » More
Healthy Activities » Online Education Course
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September/october 2013
in Charge
Understanding the New
Health Insurance Marketplace:
At-a-Glance
Health Insurance Marketplace
By now you may have been receiving mail from the
government and private insurance companies about the
new Health Insurance Marketplace—which may be a bit
OPEN
overwhelming and confusing. As your employer, DTE Energy wants to help you
cut through the marketing clutter and answer basic questions so you can feel
secure and confident in your healthcare situation.
Here is a quick overview of the Marketplace and how it works:
New Health Insurance Marketplace:
Opening October 1, 2013 At a Computer Near You!
What It Is:
This new online public shopping site lets individuals,
families and small businesses compare and shop for
health insurance plans offered through a wide variety
of private health insurance companies.
Who Is Eligible:
Basically, anyone can purchase health insurance out
on the Marketplace, but it is intended to be most
cost-effective for those who are currently unemployed,
self-employed or ineligible for employer-based
coverage. Those with employer-based coverage
(such as DTE Energy employees) can buy from the
Marketplace, but it could end up costing you more!
What’s Covered:
Although the plans are offered through
various insurance companies, the law says
they all must cover the same core set of benefits—called
essential benefits—such as preventive care, prescription
drugs, hospitalizations and maternity and newborn care.
Beyond that, plans may differ in the type and level of
coverage they provide.
How It Works:
Create
account
Createanan
account
Apply
Pick a Plan
Enroll
You
by providing
providingsome
You start
start by
basicbasic
information
and
some
informaregistering
for Marketplace
tion
and registering
for
emails to alert
you when
Marketplace
emails
to
you can
an account.
alert
youcreate
when you
can
create an account
Starting October 1, 2013,
you’ll enter information about
you and your family, including
your income, household size
and more.
You’ll see all the plans and
programs you are eligible for
and be able to compare them
side-by-side. You’ll also find
out if you are eligible for the
tax credit to help offset your
premium cost.
Choose a plan that meets
your needs and enroll!
Coverage starts as soon
as January 1, 2014.
in Charge
September /October 2013
11
What It Costs:
Each insurance company decides what types of plans to offer and how much to
charge. Generally, some will offer more coverage at higher costs and others will offer
less coverage at a lower cost. All plans in the Marketplace will fall into four main
categories of coverage, each with different cost-sharing levels:
How Does DTE Energy
Health Plan
Coverage Stack Up?
Our plans are between the Gold and
Platinum levels, which is well above
the 60% minimum plan in
the Marketplace!
Plan % of costs covered
Bronze Plan pays 60%; you pay 40%
Silver Plan pays 70%; you pay 30%
Gold Plan pays 80%; you pay 20%
Platinum Plan pays 90%; you pay 10%
Is There A Cost Advantage To Buying From The Marketplace?
For DTE Energy employees, it is not likely. Although the Marketplace offers a subsidy in the
form of a tax credit that can be applied to the cost of the plan’s premium immediately, not
everyone qualifies for this subsidy. In fact, because you are eligible for DTE-sponsored
healthcare coverage and likely earn above the required salary threshold, it is very unlikely
you’d qualify for the subsidy.
Learn More:
To learn more about the Health
Insurance Marketplace, visit the
main government-sponsored
site: www.healthcare.gov.
To learn about your DTE
healthcare plans, visit
www.ybr.com/dteenergy
Is There A Cost Advantage To Staying With Your DTE Energy-Sponsored Plan?
YES!
1) DTE Energy Currently Pays a Big Portion of Your Total Premium Cost. But, if you
purchase healthcare through the Marketplace instead, DTE Energy will no longer
contribute to the cost—meaning you must pay the full cost of the premium.
2) You Can Pay for DTE Energy Coverage Using PRE-TAX Dollars, which saves you
money. Your payment for coverage bought through the Marketplace, however, must be
made with AFTER-TAX dollars—meaning you lose that tax advantage.
3) You Likely Don’t Qualify for the Government Subsidy/Tax Credit. As explained
above, DTE Energy employees will likely NOT qualify for a tax credit through the
Marketplace!
What Do You Need To Do?
Nothing. As a DTE Energy employee, you and your eligible family members have access to
a very valuable benefit through our medical plans—a benefit that will be hard to match!
Regardless of what the marketing materials from the government say, you do not need to
buy coverage elsewhere, nor do you need to do anything outside the normal DTE Energy
open enrollment period. All DTE Energy-sponsored plans fully meet the requirements and
qualify as “affordable care” under the new law.
WARNING: Please note that if you purchase coverage through the Marketplace and change your mind a few months down
the road, you will not be able to re-enroll in a DTE-sponsored plan until the next enrollment period in the fall of 2014.
12
R
september/october 2013
in Charge
Feel Better
The Power of Nurturing a
Healthy Relationship
(Source: Psychology Today)
Do you ever feel like you and your spouse or partner are two
ships passing in the night? Between work, carpools, kids’ activities and
social obligations, there just isn’t much time or energy left to give to your relationship.
But take note, a relationship cannot survive running on auto-pilot. It needs care and
nurturing.
Though actively nurturing can be a bit awkward or difficult at first, it can become almost
second nature because it feels so positive when it’s working! But how exactly does one nurture a
relationship? Here are a few simple ways to get you started:
1. Kind, constant and honest
communication. Without talking,
your relationship will not survive.
The more you communicate —talk
and listen—the closer you will be.
7. Being able to admit mistakes and to talk
about them. We all screw up. Learning to
understand and let go of mistakes that you or your
partner make will turn your life around and give you
more time for joy.
2. Compassion, acceptance and
8. A sense of humor, some fun
forgiveness. These will guide you through an
argument or difficult time. Weathering the storms together
is a big part of what relationships are all about and can
bring you closer if handled right.
and a bit of distraction from the
rigors of daily life. Interacting with
one another in a carefree and fun way
helps us remember what attracted
us to our partner to begin with. A couple
that plays together, stays together.
3. Emotional support, validation and
compliments. If you don’t feel that your
partner likes and respects you, there will
not be a strong connection. You have to lift each other up and let
each other know the depth of your caring.
NEW! WellLife EAP WEBINAR
“First Aid Kit for Couples:
Quick Fixes for Successful Relationships”
4. Little acts of affection. Holding hands or walking
arm in arm, little touches as you pass one another in
the house, kissing one another when you leave or
arrive and saying “I love you” all help rekindle that spark.
5. Sharing goals and dreams that
resonate with both of you. We are happier
when we are working toward a goal than when
we have achieved one. Make sure you always
have something to look forward to and that
you are pursuing it as a couple.
6. A mutual desire to step outside the
box. The tried-and-true is good, but the
never-attempted-before may be better.
Couples who share new experiences
together develop a stronger bond.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
DTE Energy employees and spouses are invited to attend the first in
a series of new webinars offered through WellLIFE EAP. Presented
by Jay Weiss, M.A., LLP, SAP, EAP Therapist, participants will learn
how to:
PImprove communication when you have no time to talk
PBreak out of the parental bonds and find time for “us”
PRe-awaken the romance and increase caring behaviors
WHEN: Tuesday, September 17
TIME: Noon – 1pm ET
TO REGISTER: Visit www.dteenergy.com/eyl and then click on
My Learning » RedBrick Health Webinars
WellLife
Employee Assistance Program
R
in Charge
September/October 2013
13
M EN ’ S HE A LTH
NEW GRILLING STUDY:
Why Marinating Meat
is Good for You
(Source: Men’s Health)
Although summer has come to a close, many
people are still using their grills, especially with
tailgating parties underway. Before you light that next barbecue, be sure
you follow this important preparation step to help ensure you aren’t grilling up a side of
cancer-causing chemicals.
According to a new report from the MD Anderson Cancer Center at the University of
Texas, marinating meat for at least 30 minutes not only adds flavor, it helps ward off cancer.
As you brown your beef using high-temperature cooking methods like grilling, the amino acids
and sugars in your meat combine to form chemicals called heterocyclic amines, or HCAs. The
concern: Some research suggests that HCAs may help form some cancers. However, the
researchers say that using the right marinade on your meat may help prevent HCAs from ever
forming in the first place.
According to the study, compounds found in certain herbs—rosemary, oregano,
thyme, mint and sage—help stabilize the sugars in your meat. Soaking it for
30 minutes to one hour in marinades that contain those herbs slashes the
number of HCAs in your BBQ favorites by up to 88 percent.
Want to make your own
HCA-fighting marinade?
Follow this quick and easy formula for savory—and
cancer-fighting—marinades:
One part acid. Start with an acid to add bite to the
marinade. You can use lemon juice, white-wine vinegar
or balsamic vinegar.
One part oil. To balance the taste, carry the flavor and contribute
a subtle nuttiness. Try olive oil, canola oil or grapeseed oil. (Be sure to
wipe off excess marinade so oils don’t ignite flames.)
Add some flavor and a dash of cancer protection.
Try shallots, ginger and any of the herbs mentioned above. Use
crushed red-pepper flakes for a spicier edge.
Finish it off. Season the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground
pepper, both of which transfer the seasoning to the meat. Then
marinate your steak for two to 12 hours (longer is better).
Don’t Ignite Cancer;
Follow These Healthy
Grilling Tips:
Don’t char or burn food.
Stick with fish. Fish contains less fat and cooks faster than meat and poultry.
Buy lean or trim fat.
Cancer-causing polycyclic
aromatic hydrocarbons
(PAHs) form in the smoke
when fat from meat, poultry
or fish drips onto the heat
source, and then the smoke
coats your food.
Lightly oil the grill. This
keeps charred materials
from sticking to your food.
Pre-cook food. Cook
meat, poultry or fish in the
microwave for two to five
minutes or the oven for 10 to
15 minutes and then finish
them on the grill. Less grill
time means less exposure to
cancer-causing chemicals.
Lower the temperature. For
a charcoal grill, spread the
coals thin or prop the grill
rack on bricks to increase
the distance between your
food and the coals.
Scrub the grill. Cleaning the
grill after each use prevents
harmful chemicals from
building up and transferring
to your food at your next
barbecue.
14
in Charge
september/october 2013
+
W o m e n ’ s H e a l t h 40,000 Women
and
410 Men
die of Breast Cancer Each Year
in the U.S.
October Is National
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
(Sources: CDC, National Cancer Institute, American Cancer Society and Mayo Clinic)
of Women Who Get Breast
Cancer Don’t Have a Family
History of the Disease
90%
Breast Cancer is the
1 in 8
#1 Most Common Cancer
Women Will Be Diagnosed in Their Lifetime
Among Women in the World
Getting Past Common Excuses for NOT Getting a Mammogram
“I Don’t Have Time”
“I Can’t Spare
the Money”
It’s really only about
a half-hour time com- All health plans must
mitment. If you feel
cover the full cost
you can’t spare time to
of eligible
get the test, just think mammograms—you
how much more time pay nothing! Not even
a copay.
it will take to have
to fight cancer!
“I’m Afraid”
What’s scarier than
finding out you have
cancer is finding out
too late. The earlier
it is detected the better the odds you’ll
survive it.
Celebrities Who Caught Their Breast Cancer
Early Thanks to a Mammogram
H Sheryl Crow Musician (at age 40)
H Christina Applegate Actress (at age 36)
H Mellissa Etheridge Musician (at age 43)
H Kylie Minogue Musician (at age 36)
H Jacyln Smith Actress (at age 56)
H Olivia-Newton John Singer/Actress (at age 44)
H Robin Roberts Good Morning America TV Anchor (at age 46)
5 Ways 1 Have routine mammograms
to Protect 2 Have an annual clinical breast exam
Yourself performed by a doctor
3 Do monthly breast self-exams
4Know your family health history and share it with your doctor
“Mammograms
Don’t Really Help”
“Mammograms
Cause Cancer”
“Mammograms
Are Painful”
Regular mammograms
are the best tests
doctors have to find
breast cancer early,
sometimes up to three
years BEFORE it can
be felt as a lump.
The mammography
machine uses very
small doses of
radiation; it’s like
getting an x-ray.
Pain thresholds
differ, but most say it’s
momentary discomfort
rather than pain. It’s
a small trade-off for
living cancer-free
The Fight to End Breast Cancer Starts with a Single Step:
Join the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk
The American Cancer Society’s walk honors those who have battled breast
cancer, raises awareness about what can be done to reduce breast cancer risk
and raises money to help fight the disease. Start a team, join a team or walk as
an individual in one of the non-competitive three to five mile events.
Here are a few of the walks happening near various DTE Energy locations:
Making Strides of:
Located at:
Saturday:
Oakland County
Rochester Municipal Park
October 12
Detroit
Corner of Montcalm St and
Brush St (by Comerica Park)
October 12
Jackson
Riverwalk Amphitheater
Consumer Energy Campus
October 19
Kalamazoo
Arcadia Creek Festival Site
October 26
Ann Arbor
Washtenaw Community College
October 26
To find other Making Strides Breast Cancer Walks near you visit
www.makingstrideswalk.org
5 Eat less processed foods and more raw foods,
maintain a healthy weight and exercise for at
least 30 minutes, five days a week
Mammograms Are
The BEST
Early Detection Tool Out There
in Charge
September/October 2013
15
HE A LTH Y @ HO M E
Raising Food-Smart Kids
7 Ways to Help Your Child Develop a
Positive Relationship with Food
(Sources: Parenting.com and WebMD)
Creating an environment where your kids can make healthy
nutritional choices is one of the most important steps you can take
to ensure the health of your child. And don’t forget to
lead them by your example!
1
2
3
4
5
Here are seven tips for getting children to eat healthy food
and form wise nutritional habits:
Keep healthy food at hand. Children
will eat what’s available. Keep fruit in a
bowl on the counter, not buried in the
crisper section of your fridge. Remember,
your child can only choose foods that you
stock in the house.
1
Don’t label foods as “good” or “bad.” Instead, tie foods to
the things your child cares about—for example, let your child
know that lean protein such as turkey and calcium in dairy give
them strength for sports. The antioxidants in fruits and veggies
helps skin and hair look nicer. And eating a healthy breakfast
can help them feel more alert and focused in class.
6
7
Don’t nag, just redirect. When children choose fatty,
fried, unhealthy foods, redirect them by suggesting a
healthier option. Instead of regular potato chips and dip,
offer baked tortilla chips and salsa. If your child wants
candy, try dipping fresh strawberries in a little chocolate sauce.
Never use food as a reward. This could create weight problems
in later life. Instead, reward your children with something physical
and fun—perhaps a trip to the park or a quick game of catch.
Sit down to family dinners at night. If
this isn’t a tradition in your home,
make it one. Research shows that
children who eat dinners at the
table with their parents have better
nutrition and are less likely to get
in serious trouble as teenagers.
Prepare plates in the kitchen. You can put the right portion
of each item on everyone’s dinner plate, instead of serve-yourself style. Help make the switch seem less shocking by using
smaller plates.
Consult your pediatrician. If you have concerns about
your child’s weight or eating habits, always talk
with your child’s doctor before making any
significant changes in the type of
foods your child eats. Never
diagnose your child as too
heavy or too thin by yourself.
EYL WEBINAR
“Energize Your Family: Develop a Strategy
to Have Your Family Be Healthy for Life”
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
“It takes a village”…”We play to win as a team”…Everywhere you
look we are reminded of the power of teamwork. When it comes to
the health and well-being of your family, a team approach is key to
building and maintaining healthy habits for life. Full-time mom and
Manager of Health and Wellness at DTE Energy, Susan Morgan
Bailey, will share fun and simple ways to make health a priority
without adding more to the family to-do list. DTE Energy employees,
retirees and spouses are invited to attend this useful webinar:
WHEN: Tuesday, October 15
TIME: Noon – 1pm ET OR 8pm - 9pm ET
TO REGISTER: Go to www.dteenergy.com/eyl » My Learning » RedBrick Health Webinars
Can’t attend or missed it? No problem!
Watch a recorded version at the link above.
16
september/october 2013
+
in Charge
al
Nation
s
i
1
1
er 7
rk Week
octob ly to Wo
PSa
o sfi t
reg
y
e itvye@eHnoem
fe
Drive Sa
Driving While Distracted:
A Fatal Mistake
1 in 4
crashes involves
driver distraction
(Sources: National Safety Council and
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)
3,000
deaths per year
are due to
distracted-driving
car crashes
How many drivers
are using
their cell phone or
texting at any
given moment durin
g the day?
Q: Which is less
#1
distracting—hands-free
How long are our
eyes off the road
while texting?
phone or hand-held phones?
A: Neither, they are
Driver
Distraction:
Wireless Devices
(primarily cell phones)
On average 4.6 seco
nds, which
at 55 mph is the eq
uivalent of
driving the length
of the football
field–blindfolded!
Texting
EQUALLY distracting! It’s the
conversation, not the device
that’s the problem.
Are You Driving Distracted?
Eating
Drinking
Using GPS
Grooming
Talking to
passengers
Common sense steps
can help prevent accidents
and save lives:
To remove the temptation, turn your phone off before starting the car or put it in the glovebox or backseat where you can’t reach it.
Inform clients, associates and business partners that calls will be returned when no longer driving.
Pull over to a safe location and put the vehicle in park if a call must be made.
Enter addresses into your GPS before driving off.
Avoid eating in the car.
Speak up if you are a passenger and the driver is driving distracted.
660,000
Talking on
the phone
Consider This:
7
Drunk drivers are
times more
likely to cause accidents
23
more times
Distracted drivers are
likely to cause accidents
Watch
& Learn:
Check out “Driven Driver” and “Defensive
Parking” videos available on the DTE
Energy Corporate Safety website.
R
in Charge
Fi n a n cia l W e l l n e s s
New Enhancements to DTE Energy’s 401(k) Plan:
Making It Easier to Take Charge
of Your Financial Future
By: Elizabeth Pochini- Manager, Retirement Income Benefits
The DTE Energy 401(k) Plan is getting even better! To support our ongoing effort
to provide DTE Energy employees with an exceptional 401(k) plan that supports participants’ long-term
financial goals, a number of important enhancements will be made beginning September 30, 2013.
September/October 2013
17
We’re Making a Great
401(k) Plan Even Better!
Make Sure You Get the
Most From It!
You’re invited to join J.P. Morgan
for onsite education sessions and
webinars that will take place in
September to learn more about
new features and options ahead
for the DTE Energy 401(k) plan.
The schedule for these sessions
is available at
www.retireonline.com or scan
this code with your smartphone
bar code reader:
These enhancements are in response to what Plan participants tell us they value and need, as well as taking
into account developments in the marketplace. The enhancements include:
Simplified investment
options
Among the most important—and
potentially intimidating—decisions you
must make when you participate in a 401(k) plan
is how to invest the money you’re contributing
to your account. The investment portfolio you
choose influences the rate at which your
account has the potential to grow, and the
income that you’ll be able to withdraw after
you retire. To make it easier to decide how to
invest your contributions, we are moving away
from brand-name funds to a more simplified
investment structure representing asset
classes—which are particular groups or
categories of investments. Being able to tell
what asset class a fund belongs to, and thus
what kind of investment it is, makes it much
more useful than the fund’s brand name when
it comes to picking your investments. Plus,
moving away from brand-name funds also
lowers fund costs for participants.
New payout choices for
a steady stream of income
Many plan participants have told
us they are looking for lifetime income
after they retire. In addition to the periodic
distributions and installment options offered
through the 401(k) Plan directly, you will now
be able to use your retirement savings to
buy an out-of-plan annuity through an
independent resource, giving you buying
power similar to a large organization. This can
translate into lower costs—and potentially
higher annuity payments—for you! In addition,
for those who are members of J.P. Morgan’s
Personal Asset Manager program (powered
through Financial Engines), another payment
option is available through the new Income+
feature that is managed with the goal to
provide you with steady income payments.
New access to
thousands of mutual
and exchange-traded funds
for “do-it-yourself” investors
Wish you had more investment options than
what the Plan currently offers? If you’re an
experienced investor who wants to have
more options for investing your account, you
may want to consider opening a self-directed
brokerage account (SDA).This new feature
allows you to invest your Plan account in
over 9,600 mutual funds and over 1,200
exchange-traded funds (EFTs). You can
manage your SDA investments online or by
phone, including transferring balances
between your other Plan investments and the
SDA and among investments purchased through
the SDA. Plus you can see your combined
investments on your quarterly account.
Participants should research funds before
investing. Also, there are some transaction
and account maintenance fees for use of the
SDA, so investors utilizing this account should
consider their long-term investment goals.
Want to Win Some DTE Energy Stock?
If you currently have a balance in the DTE Energy 401(k) Plan or are a current
DTE Energy employee who is eligible to participate in the Plan, log on to
www.retireonline.com (or scan the QR code to the right with your smart phone bar code
scanner app) between Aug. 20 and Sept. 30. Under “Important Information,” you’ll find a survey
link. Complete the brief survey and be entered to win one of five prizes. The grand prize winner will
win 50 shares of DTE Energy stock! Winners will be contacted in early October.
To learn more about the enhancements
and your choices, be sure to read the
materials recently sent to your home
from J.P. Morgan Retirement Plan
Services. Or, visit www.retireonline.com,
or call 800.345.2345.
This material is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide personalized tax, lending, ERISA, legal or investment advice. A professional should
be sought for all such matters. Nothing in the Education Section of the web site should be construed as a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any security.While sources of information are
believed to be reliable, JPMorgan Retirement Plan Services does not warrant or guarantee the information.Where assumptions have been made, they are hypothetical in nature and not
representative of any particular security. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results and investing in securities involves risk, including the possible loss of principal.
DTE Energy Company
One Energy Plaza
Detroit, MI 48226
Presorted
First Class
U.S. Postage
PAID
Royal Oak, MI
Permit No. 759
How Can You Be
Entered to Win One of Three
Fitbit One™ Physical Activity Trackers?
See the card inserted into the center spread of
this newsletter to find out…
U
more news
Spotlight on
EYL Ambassadors
Linda Stewart Rewalt became an
EYL Ambassador when the program was
first launched. As the only woman at her
location, she felt a bit of a maternal drive to help her male counterparts lead healthier lives.
.
ashington team
Linda and the W
Meet Linda
Stewart Rewalt
Whether it’s putting Fast Food Guides and Grocery Guides in
Station Analyst
each truck, reminding people to get their annual physicals or
Washington 10 Station
DTE Energy Employee helping coordinate EYL speakers, Linda is quick to promote
for 42 years
EYL initiatives and healthy living. She recently promoted the
Fitbit offer at her location and ended up with 90% participation!
In addition, Linda had basically full participation for a recent
presentation by EYL and MoveWell, where they demonstrated
various stretches and exercises that would benefit the team.
“With an average age that is higher than most locations,
personal health has become more top of mind among the
team. Being an EYL Ambassador allows me to help people
do the right thing.” Thank you, Linda, for your support over
the years and your continued dedication to helping your team
live with high energy, good health and passion for life!
SAVE TIME:
Get Your Flu Shot
at WORK
No time to run out and get a flu shot? No worries, we
will bring the flu shot to you! Onsite flu shots will be
offered to DTE Energy employees beginning in October
at DTE Energy locations. Receive 25 Quarterly Health
Engagement Drawing entries or 25 Energize Your Life
Activity Credits for completing and returning the
RedBrick Health Program Participation Form. Spouses
are not eligible for the onsite flu shot but can earn
the incentive by getting a flu shot from their provider
and submitting the proper documentation found online
at www.dteenergy.com/eyl and then select MyHealth
» FluShots
Look for schedules in the DTE Daily later this month,
or check the EYL website at the url listed above.
Test Your Knowledge and Earn Rewards: in ChargE Quiz!
You can earn 25 entries into the Quarterly Drawing, or 25 EYL Activity Credits, by reading this issue of IN CHARGE
and taking just a few minutes to answer questions based on what you’ve read. To access the quiz, go to:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/InChargeSeptOct2013. You must complete the online quiz by October 15, 2013 to earn your reward.