NMPSIA Reminder:
Qualifying Event rules are very important to know so you can act
within enrollment deadlines. Meeting these deadlines can be the
difference between coverage and no coverage for yourself and your
dependents. Take some time to read the
program guide
and save it or bookmark the web page.
We would love to feature your photo in the next NMPSIA newsletter! You
can submit landscape photos taken in New Mexico for a chance to win
prizes and have your photo featured. Email your pictures to
KAYLYNN.ROYBAL@PSIA.NM.GOV.
Page 1
Benefits Corner
Benefits 101: Preventive Care & More
Benefits 101: Preventive Care — Be in the Know
Preventive care is covered at 100% when you use an in-network
provider and receive services billed as preventive. Whether you are
on the High Option or Low Option medical plan, preventive care is
covered when you follow the rules for in-network preventive visits.
To do this week
Check the calendar. If it's
been more than a year since your last physical, it might be
time to schedule.
Find a provider. Stay
in-network so your preventive care is covered under the plan.
Ask questions. Confirm which
screenings are right for you based on age and health history.
What is considered preventive?
Annual physicals
Routine labs
Mammograms and colonoscopies
Well‑woman exams
Vaccines
To keep your visit 100% covered, keep these tips in mind:
Be specific when scheduling
When calling, clearly state that you want to schedule a
preventive visit. For example: “I am calling to schedule my
preventive care exam.”
Know the “new concern” rule
If you raise new problems or concerns during a preventive visit,
the provider may bill additional services that are not
considered preventive. Those extra services can be subject to
your plan’s deductible, copay, or coinsurance.
If your visit is not preventive
When you see a provider for a specific concern rather than a
routine preventive screening, you should expect to pay according
to your medical plan benefits.
Example cost sharing when a visit is not preventive
Type of visit
High Option plan
Low Option plan
Telehealth / virtual — non‑urgent
Copay according to your plan
Copay according to your plan
Primary care
Office visit copay
Office visit copay or deductible/coinsurance
Specialist / outpatient services
Specialist copay / coinsurance
Deductible and coinsurance may apply
For full details, refer to your plan documents or contact your
carrier directly.
Rural Living? Try Primary Virtual Care
If you live in a rural area, it can be challenging to access primary
care. Virtual primary care connects you with providers by phone,
tablet, or computer for routine visits, follow‑up care, and
non‑urgent needs.
Shorter wait times compared with in‑person visits.
Flexible appointment options that fit your schedule.
Ability to manage many conditions from home.
Check with your carrier to confirm which virtual primary care
options are available under your NMPSIA plan.
Debunk Preventive Screenings Misconceptions
“Screenings aren’t necessary unless I have symptoms.”
Reality: Screenings are designed to catch problems before symptoms
appear. Skipping them may mean missing early, treatable conditions.
“It’s too complicated to figure out where to go or how to get
care.”
Reality: Carriers offer websites, nurse lines, patient navigators,
call centers, and online portals to help you find care and schedule
visits. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
“Medical care, even with low copays, is too expensive.”
Reality: Avoiding routine care can lead to higher long‑term costs if
unmanaged conditions become emergencies. Preventive care can save
time and money over the long run.
Benefits‑Related Tips for Soon‑To‑Be Retirees
NMPSIA coordinates with the New Mexico Retiree Health Care Authority
(NMRHCA) to support a smooth transition into retirement. Before your
retirement date, review your options for retiree coverage and be
aware of important deadlines.
The timing of your retirement affects when premiums are deducted and
when your retiree coverage begins. Contact NMRHCA and NMPSIA early
to make informed decisions about your benefits.
Turn Everyday Healthy Choices into Rewards
Many NMPSIA medical plans include wellness programs that reward you
for healthy actions such as preventive screenings, completing health
assessments, or participating in fitness challenges.
Earn points for eligible activities.
Redeem rewards such as gift cards or wellness items.
Track your progress through your carrier’s member portal.
Log in to your carrier’s wellness portal or contact customer
service to learn which rewards are available with your plan.
Page 2
Wellness Spotlight
Wabi‑Sabi: A Simple Way to Handle Real‑Life Imperfections
What Is Wabi‑Sabi?
In everyday life, Wabi‑Sabi means noticing that things don’t
have to be perfect to be valuable or meaningful. In health and
wellness, it encourages you to build strong habits while accepting
that progress won’t look flawless every day.
Healthcare isn’t perfect. Appointments get rescheduled, and
plans change. Wabi‑Sabi teaches you to keep going anyway and to see
small steps as wins rather than failures.
Here are three practical ways to bring a Wabi‑Sabi mindset into your
health and well‑being.
1. Navigate Healthcare
Accept that the process may not be seamless, but preventive
visits and screenings are still worth it.
Stay engaged even when it feels clunky; your health is worth the
effort.
Ask for help early from HR, wellness ambassadors, or member
services.
2. Seek Preventive Care
Don’t wait for a perfect reason to make an appointment.
Preventive screenings can uncover concerns before they become
serious. Making time now helps protect your health for the future.
3. Self‑Led Disease Prevention through Nutrition & Exercise
Simple meals and regular movement can support long‑term health.
Small changes like adding more fruits and vegetables, walking more
often, or stretching regularly all contribute to your well‑being.
Recipe: Arugula, Watermelon and Feta Salad
For the Vinaigrette
1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1/4 cup minced shallots (about 1 large)
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 cup good olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Salad
6 cups baby arugula, washed and spun dry
1 1/8 pounds seedless watermelon, rind removed and cut into
1‑inch cubes
10 ounces good feta cheese, 1/2‑inch diced or crumbled
1 cup (4 ounces) whole fresh mint leaves, julienned
Directions
Make the vinaigrette:
In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice,
shallots, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil
until combined, or shake together in a jar.
Assemble the salad:
In a large bowl, place the arugula, watermelon, feta, and mint.
Drizzle with enough vinaigrette to coat lightly and toss gently.
Serving tip:
Serve immediately. The vinaigrette can also be used as a marinade if
you have leftovers.
Page 3
Risk Resource
Practice Self‑Care by Taking Time to Stretch
Why Stretching Matters at Work
Spring is a time of renewal, and it can also be a good time to build
new workplace habits. One of the healthiest things you can do
throughout your workday is set a reminder to stand up and stretch
regularly, ideally every 30 minutes.
Stretching helps reduce fatigue, improve posture, support better
balance, and promote circulation. It may also relieve muscle tension
and contribute to overall well‑being.
Before starting a stretching routine, check with your physician or
healthcare provider, especially if you have past or current injuries
or pain.
Hamstring Stretch
Movement
Place the straight leg in front of you and bend at the waist,
keeping your back straight. Do not round the back.
Tip
Point your toes toward the ceiling or sky and feel the stretch
along the back of the straight leg.
Hip Flexor Stretch
Movement
Step forward with the leg and bend the front knee, keeping the
opposite leg straight behind you.
Tip
Bend the front knee until you feel a stretch in the front of the
hip on the back leg. You may need to slightly arch your lower
back.
Chin Tucks
Movement
Gently draw your head straight backward, as if making a double
chin, while keeping your eyes focused on something in front of
you.
Tip
Do not look down as you do this exercise, and avoid bending your
neck forward.
Chest / Pec Stretch
Movement
Open your arms wide away from the body to feel a stretch across
the chest.
Tip
Keep your palms open and bend your elbows slightly.
Training Opportunities
A full list of available trainings is offered through
NMPSIA’s risk management partners. Topics may include:
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Practices
Confidentiality of Student Records (FERPA)
Hazing Prevention in K‑12 Environments
Playground Maintenance and Inspection
Sexual Harassment Prevention
Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Prevention
Cybersecurity Awareness
And more workplace safety and inclusion topics
Contact your district or NMPSIA risk representative for a complete
list of trainings and scheduling information.
