Managing Chronic Conditions: Practical Tips for a Healthier You

Managing conditions like hypertension, diabetes and obesity may feel like a daily challenge, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. As a MercyOne Health Plan member, your plan is designed to support you with benefits, programs and care teams that make healthy living more manageable. By combining simple lifestyle habits with the resources available to you, you can take meaningful steps toward better health.

You may also find that managing chronic conditions becomes easier when you take a whole-person approach to your health. That means paying attention not only to medical care, but also to your daily habits, environment and support system. The good news is that many of these elements are already supported through your MercyOne Health Plan, giving you tools and resources to simplify care and stay focused on what matters most — feeling your best each day.

Build a routine with support from your plan

Consistency is key when managing chronic conditions and having the right support can make all the difference.

• Track your numbers. Monitoring blood pressure, blood sugar or weight can help you stay aware of your progress.
• Take medications as prescribed. Using reminders or pill organizers can help you stay on schedule.
• Stay connected to your care team. Regular check-ins help ensure your treatment plan is working.

Your plan offers annual wellness visits and preventive screenings, all designed to keep your care proactive. If you need help managing appointments or understanding your care plan, a care manager is available to assist through MercyOne Health Plan Case Management.

Make healthy eating easier

Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated, and you may already have benefits that can help.

• Focus on whole foods. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins support heart health and blood sugar control.
• Cut back on sodium and added sugars. Small changes can have a big impact on blood pressure and glucose levels.
• Practice portion awareness. Balanced portions help maintain healthy weight.

Stay active using benefits designed for you

Regular physical activity can improve energy, mobility and overall health, and your plan may make it easier to get moving.

• Start small. Walking, stretching or chair exercises are excellent ways to begin.
• Stay consistent. Even short, daily activity adds up over time.
• Choose what you enjoy. Activities you like are easier to stick with.

Members have access to fitness programs, gym memberships or senior-focused exercise classes through One Pass® and Grouper. These benefits are designed to help you stay active safely and confidently. Click here to learn more. 

Support your mental and emotional health

Chronic conditions affect more than just physical health, so managing stress and sleep is just as important. 

• Create a calming routine. Reading, meditation or light stretching can help reduce stress.
• Stick to a sleep schedule. Consistent rest helps your body function at its best.
• Stay socially connected. Talking with friends and family supports emotional well-being.

Consider reaching out to your provider or a mental health professional if you find yourself struggling with daily tasks, overall mood or find that you no longer take enjoyment in previous activities. If you or a loved one are in a mental crisis, call the 988 Hotline for help. 

Make preventive care part of your routine

Preventive care helps catch potential issues early and keeps chronic conditions under control.

• Stay current on screenings and tests. These are essential for monitoring your health.
• Don’t skip your annual wellness visit. It’s a key opportunity to review your overall health.
• Follow up on changes. Early action can prevent complications.

Preventive services are covered for members, making it easier to stay on top of your health without worrying about added costs. Check out your EOC to learn more.

Use convenient care options when you need them

Getting care quickly and easily can prevent small concerns from becoming bigger problems.

• Reach out when something changes. New symptoms or concerns should be addressed promptly.
• Ask questions. Understanding your care plan empowers you to take control.
• Utilize at-home care options. Most plans offer a 24/7 Nurse Advice Line, giving you convenient ways to connect with care when you need it, without leaving home. Click here to learn more about the 24/7 Nurse Advice Line or call 800-964-4525 (TTY: 711).*
• Meals after hospitalization. Our plan’s meal program eliminates the anxiety that arises from shopping for and preparing a daily meal after a hospital stay. Check your EOC to see if you qualify or call to speak with one of our advisors at 800-964-4525 (TTY: 711) to enroll.

Small steps, supported every day

Managing chronic conditions is a journey, but you don’t have to do it alone. Healthy habits like eating well, staying active and managing stress are powerful tools, and when paired with your MercyOne Health Plan benefits, they become even more effective. From wellness visits and care coordination to fitness support, your plan is built to help you succeed.

Review your benefits or contact MercyOne Health Plan Member Services at 800-240-3851 (TTY: 711) from 8 a.m to 8 p.m. to learn how to make the most of the programs available to you. 

Your health is worth it, and the support you need is already within reach.

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* Not every plan offers the 24/7 Nurse Line. Consult your EOC for more information.