Top News
- Benefits 101: Loss of Coverage
- Completion of Active Procurements
- The Importance of Preventative Care
- Eye Health Highlight
- Oven Roasted Carrots Recipe
- Vector Solutions
NMPSIA is excited to announce our new partnership with SurgeryPlus!
This benefit will help our members obtain Orthopedic and Spinal surgery at NO COST to them!
Click the logo to learn more.
Send us pictures of your part of New Mexico to be featured in the next NMPSIA
Newsletter!
Email
your pictures to: kaylynn.roybal@psia.nm.gov
Benefits Corner
Benefits 101: Loss of Coverage
If you or a dependent experience a loss of coverage, you MUST report that loss within 31 days. Supportive documentation of the loss is required to include:
- Who lost coverage
- What type of coverage was lost
- When did the coverage end
- Why was the coverage lost (must be involuntary)
Be Advised: Voluntary canceling of other coverage or non-compliance to maintain other coverage is not considered a qualifying event. See page 14 of the Program Guide for details related to the Loss of Coverage Qualifying Event.
NMPSIA Benefits completed several procurements and we are proud to announce that we have contracted with the following vendors:
- SurgeryPlus
- Erisa Admin. Services, Inc.
- BCBS Medical
- Presbyterian Medical
- BCBS Dental (for 1/1/2025)
- Delta Dental
- United Concordia Dental
- Davis Vision
The Importance of Preventative Care
Members should not have to face financial burden for seeking routine visits. The NMPSIA plan design is structured to ensure our members are able to access preventative and wellness services at little to no cost. The early detection of disease translates to better health outcomes for our members. Better health outcomes translate to dollars saved for not only the Plan but the insured individual as well!
Getting the Most Out of Your Benefits
In-network providers are providers who are contracted with your selected medical, dental and/or vision carrier. Seeing an in-network provider will allow you to receive care at a fraction of the cost, compared to seeing an out-of-network provider! Be sure to double check that your favorite providers are in-network with your selected carrier(s) by visiting our website or calling your carrier directly. Click HERE and navigate to the “Find a Provider by Carrier” menu option. From there you will be able to be view a complete list of in-network providers.
Wellness Spotlight
Eye Checkups
Bringing eye health into focusDid you know an eye exam can be used for more than renewing your glasses/contacts prescription?
Early signs of disease can be detected through the eyes which is why it is so important to see your optometrist every year.
Make an appointment with your eye doctor today! Not currently established with an eye care professional? Click HERE to find a provider near you.
eye exams are covered with a $10 copay every 12 months.
Mindful moments. Taking 5 Mindful Breaths, 5x a Day can help you with reducing stress, making decisions from a clear head space and manage emotions like anger or frustration. Try incorporating this breathing technique when you wake up, before entering a meeting, before drafting a difficult email and before bed.
- Exhale to a count of four.
- Hold your lungs empty for a four-count.
- Inhale to a count of four.
- Hold the air in your lungs for a count of four.
- Exhale and begin from step 1 again. Repeat 3 cycles.
Oven-Roasted Carrots
- 2 pounds carrots
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- parsley (chopped, for garnish, optional)
Directions
Preheat oven to 425°F (line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up). Toss
carrots with oil and seasoning. Pour onto prepared baking sheet. Arrange carrots in a single
layer. Bake 18-20 minutes for baby or garden carrots, 25-30 minutes for large carrots.
Risk Resource
The New Mexico Public Schools Insurance Authority and Poms & Associates want to remind you of an important training resource for your District or school. Vector Solutions delivers high-quality, expert-authored courses on important safety, compliance, and prevention topics. This service is provided to all NMPSIA members at no additional cost and also allows participating entities to assign, track, and manage training for your users. Included in the offerings are grade-appropriate, short online courses concerning Child Sexual Abuse Prevention and Professional Boundaries in Schools. The courses will help New Mexico Schools comply with the requirements of House Bill 128 and it is strongly recommended that all NMPSIA participating employers adopt them as mandatory training.
Vector Solutions Highlights
(2023-2024 School Year)
- 47,059 Active Users
- 74,925 Users with online completions
- 653,273 online module completions
To get started with Vector Solutions, just fill out the online form.
If you need additional assistance or have questions, please email Kevin McDonald at Poms &
Associates at kmcdonald@pomsassoc.com.
Other valuable trainings can be accessed HERE!
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Practices:
Staff-to-Student - FERPA:
Confidentiality of Records - Hazing Prevention in K12 Environments
- HIPAA Overview
- Playground Maintenance & Inspection
- Playground Supervision
- Sexual Harassment:
Staff-to-Staff - Student Alcohol and Substance Abuse
- Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Prevention
- Cybersecurity Overview
- Cybersecurity Awareness for Employees:
End-User Best Practices - Cybersecurity Awareness for Employees:
Security Awareness Essentials - Cybersecurity Awareness for Employees: Social Engineering
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Practices:
Staff-to-Staff
Photo of Brazos Cliffs near Chama, NM by Joe Marquez of Santa Fe
Latest News
- Benefits 101: Birth of a Child
- Healthcare Fun Fact
- Telehealth: Access $0 Copay and Convenient Scheduling
- Back-to-School Wellness Tips
- Life on Mindfulness Sign Up
- Cauliflower Soup Recipe
- Wellness Ambassador
- Suicide Prevention
NMPSIA is excited to announce Open/Switch Enrollment Oct 1 - Nov 1, 2024
Use the online enrollment system to add or change lines of coverage
Send us pictures of your part of New Mexico to be featured in the next NMPSIA
Newsletter!
Email
your pictures to: kaylynn.roybal@psia.nm.gov
Benefits Corner
Benefits 101: Birth of a Child
Welcoming a newborn child is a joyous time in someone's life and it's also a qualifying life event to cover your newborn under NMPSIA Benefits!
Important: The Policyholder has 31 days to report the birth of a child by submitting a Change Form and proof of birth. Don't wait to inform your employer of your upcoming birth! It will be important to ask about your maternity options such as FMLA and ensure you know how to fill out the Change Form, which can be found HERE on the NMPSIA website.
Did you know: You can use the Hospital Proof of Birth/ Birth Registration to enroll your child in benefits? You do not need to wait for the Social Security card or Official State Filed Birth Certificate to enroll your newborn!
Helpful Tip: Pack your Change Form in your hospital overnight bag. When hospital registration comes to your room, you will be prepared with your Change Form, which you will provide to your employer.
DID YOU KNOW SEPTEMBER IS THE MOST POPULAR BIRTH MONTH OF THE YEAR? SEPTEMBER 9TH IS THE MOST POPLUAR DAY TO BE BORN, AVERAGING 12K BIRTHS ON THIS DAY ALONE.
BACK-TO-SCHOOL BUSY? TELEHEALTH
Take a moment for yourself amidst the back-to-school chaos. Prioritize your wellness and make those virtual appointments today—your mind and body will thank you! We’re excited to remind you about the convenience of telehealth services! With $0 copay through your medical carrier’s national network, accessing healthcare has never been easier or more affordable. Whether it’s a quick consultation for a lingering cough or advice on managing stress during this hectic season, telehealth allows you to connect with healthcare professionals!
Getting the Most Out of Your Benefits
Important note: To take advantage of the $0 telehealth visits you must book through your medical carrier, either online or by phone. This gives you access to a nationwide network of providers. If you choose to use your local doctor or any local office, you will be charged an office visit copay.
Wellness Spotlight
Back-to-School Wellness
Schedule "me time" like it's a staff meetingYou wouldn’t skip a meeting with the principal, right? So don’t skip your own self-care!
Laugh often—it's free therapy!Laughter is like cardio for your soul—it gets your heart pumping and releases those feel-good endorphins.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!Staying hydrated helps maintain focus and keeps those brain cells firing on all cylinders.
Get moving—even if it's just to the copy machineDo some stretches between meetings. Every little bit counts.
Life on Mindfulness
Join our online platform that gives you access to two live monthly workshops
and daily live-guided meditations Mon-Fri.
Click here to create your account and get started today!
Cauliflower
- 1 medium head of cauliflower and 1 medium carrot, shredded
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 2 & 1/2 cups each of water and milk
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon or 1 cube vegetable bouillon
- 3 tablespoons each of butter and all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon each of pepper and garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
In a stockpot, combine whole cauliflower, carrot, celery, and water.
Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 12-15 minutes until veggies are tender (do not drain). While
that
simmers, in a saucepan, melt the butter, stir in flour and spices until smooth. Gradually add milk and
cheese.
Once cheese is melted, combine mixture in stockpot and mix thoroughly. Enjoy!
NMPSIA Wellness Ambassadors are:
Employees who volunteer to share their passion and who contribute to meaningful worksite/department/school-wide wellness initiatives.
Comfortable promoting wellness programs.
Advocates for healthy living, no matter where they are in their personal health journey.
Prepared to inspire others and be a positive role model for health and wellbeing.
Perks:
Access to Wellness Experts
1st chance to Register for Wellness Programs
Welcome and End-of-Year Gifts
Requirements:
Attend Wellness Ambassadors Quarterly Zoom meetings
Have permission to become a wellness ambassador from their supervisor, district and/or school administration
Support We Provide:
Giveaway prizes for your wellness initiatives
Wellness communications i.e. newsletters, event calendars, and more!
Ready to Sign Up?
Don't wait—become part of something bigger than yourself!
Sign up now and let's create a healthier future together.
Risk Resource
As we step into September, we are reminded that this month holds a significant purpose— Suicide Prevention Month. Remember, it’s okay to not be okay, but it’s also important to know how to help others who might feel that way. The New Mexico Public Schools Insurance Authority and Poms & Associates want to remind you of training resources available to you.
QPR Training: Question, Persuade, Refer (2-Hour Session) Think of it as being equipped to be a mental health superhero—without the cape (unless you want one!). You’ll learn how to spot warning signs and engage in conversations that could save lives and give hope to someone in need.
Youth First Aid Training (8-hour Session) This training is like having a first-aid kit for the mind! We wouldn’t ignore a sprained ankle in one of our students; why would we ignore emotional pain?
The CDC knows Mental Health matters and
has stepped up with a handy-dandy guide
aimed at improving mental health among
our youth. The DASH Mental Health Action
Guide is packed with tools and strategies to
help support the mental well-being of youth.
DASH stands for “Division of Adolescent and
School Health.” They put together an action
guide that serves as a roadmap for
educators, parents, and community leaders
who want to make a difference in the lives of
young people. Think of it as your GPS for
navigating the sometimes bumpy roads of
adolescent mental health. The CDC’s Mental
Health Action Guide isn’t just another
document gathering dust on a shelf; it’s an
essential tool designed to empower our
youth and promote their mental well-being
in ways that are effective—and yes, even fun!
Download the PDF here!
The QPR Training and the Youth First Aid Training are designed to empower you with knowledge and skills. As we navigate through this month, let’s commit ourselves not only to learning but also to acting on what we learn. Your participation in these trainings could be the key that unlocks hope for someone in need.
Are you interested in having a training at your school?
QUESTION, PERSUADE, REFER (QPR):
Provides employees with three simple steps
anyone
can learn to help save a life from suicide.
Contact Tammie Pargas, James Vautier, or Darron
Walter.
Youth Mental Health First Aid
(Ideal for those who work with ages 12-18)
Gives adults who work with youth the skills they need to
reach out and provide initial support and resources.
Contact Brenda Barela or Tammie Pargas
Other valuable trainings can be accessed HERE!
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Practices:
Staff-to-Student - FERPA:
Confidentiality of Records - Hazing Prevention in K12 Environments
- HIPAA Overview
- Playground Maintenance & Inspection
- Playground Supervision
- Sexual Harassment:
Staff-to-Staff - Student Alcohol and Substance Abuse
- Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Prevention
- Cybersecurity Overview
- Cybersecurity Awareness for Employees:
End-User Best Practices - Cybersecurity Awareness for Employees:
Security Awareness Essentials - Cybersecurity Awareness for Employees: Social Engineering
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Practices:
Staff-to-Staff
Latest News
- Benefits 101: Explore the Program Guide
- 60-second Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test
- TDC: $0 Diabetic Supplies
- Interactive Health Risk Assessments
- Cravings: Your Body Needs You
- Take a Break with NMPSIA Wellness
- Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushroom Recipe
- Living at Work with Diabetes
- Two New FREE POMS & Associates Trainings
NMPSIA is excited to announce new resources on our website, offering free tools and support for Behavioral Health, including suicide and self-harm prevention, mental health wellness, anxiety, substance abuse, and eating disorders.
Send us pictures of your part of New Mexico to be featured in the next NMPSIA
Newsletter!
Email
your pictures to: kaylynn.roybal@psia.nm.gov
Benefits Corner
Benefits 101: Program Guide
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! - It’s the NMPSIA Program Guide! Just like a superhero, this guide is here to help.
Enrollment Guidelines: You can find out when you are eligible, who in your family is eligible and what documents you need to provide to enroll on pages 8-17 of the Program Guide.
Smart Consumer Information: It’s no secret healthcare is costly! Check out page 18 of the Program Guide to find out how you can save yourself some time and money.
Online Benefit Access: Pages 19-21 teach you how to utilize the Online Benefit System. You can view your benefits, make changes to your personal information and beneficiary information.
Detailed Carrier Overview: Pages 27-94 offer information on each carrier. Have you ever wondered how to enroll in the Wellness Rewards through your carrier? Take advantage of gym membership discounts and more!
Important Reminder: Routine visits may appear to be $0, but this benefit is funded by the investment you make through your monthly premiums. Think of these visits as part of the comprehensive package you're already paying for. By utilizing these services, you're getting the most out of your insurance investment!
Through CVS Caremark, NMPSIA offers essential support for members living with Diabetes. The CVS Transform Diabetes Care (TDC) program provides easy access to affordable Diabetes medications and supplies, ensuring you have what you need to manage your health effectively. With no co-pays, a broad network of pharmacies, and resources tailored specifically for Diabetes care, CVS TDC makes it easier to stay on track with your treatment plan. Take control of your Diabetes management today. Explore the benefits of the CVS TDC program!
Did you know?:
According to the American
Diabetes Association, over 37
million Americans have diabetes, and around 96 million have prediabetes. Find out if you are at
risk!
Getting the most out of your
benefits
Important Note: Regular check-ups with Medical,
Dental and Vision providers not only help you maintain
your health but also ensure you’re fully utilizing the
coverage you’ve invested in! Use our Find a Provider
tool found HERE on the menu to the left
to get started TODAY!
Miscellaneous Resources
Vision Simulator
Check out this amazing tool from Davis Vision! You don't have to be a Davis member to try it out, either. See what you might be missing!
You've Gotta Be Kidney Me Quiz
You can’t take an online quiz to find out the risk of your home systems but you can take this quiz to find out if your Kidneys are at risk. Plan ahead and take action before the problems start!
Oral Risk Estimator
Oral bacteria throw a party when you skip this risk test—Because they know you don’t have to be a Delta Dental member to try it out! Find out if you are hosting a sugar eating bacteria buffet in your mouth before it leads to tooth loss!
Food Calculator: Carbs, Calories and More
Put your takeout to the test! You can find your favorite fast food restaurants and meals easily to find out what they don't what you to know!
Wellness Spotlight
Chromium aids in blood sugar regulation and metabolism, while carbon is fundamental to organic molecules and energy production. Phosphorus supports bone health and cellular function, and sulfur is essential for protein synthesis and detoxification.
Your body needs YOU.
Fill over half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables.- Asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower
- Carrots, celery, cucumber
- Brussels Sprouts, cabbage (green, red, napa, bok choy)
- See full list of non-starchy veggies
- Chicken, turkey, eggs
- Fish like salmon, cod, tuna, tilapia, or swordfish
- Shellfish like shrimp, scallops, clams, mussels, or lobster
- See full list including plant-based
- Whole grains such as brown rice, bulgur, oats, polenta
- Starchy veggies like acorn squash, butternut squash, green peas, parsnips, plantain, potato, pumpkin, and sweet potato/yam
- Beans and legumes such as black, kidney, pinto, and garbanzo beans
- See full list of carbs
Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 medium clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper, divided
- 4 portobello mushrooms (about 14 ounces), stems and gills removed (see Tip)
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- ½ cup fresh mozzarella pearls, drained and patted dry or shredded Mozzarella
- ½ cup thinly sliced fresh basil
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- Tip: To prepare portobello mushroom caps, Using a spoon, scrape off the brown gills from the underside of the mushroom caps to create space to stuff
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp oil, minced garlic, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper.
Brush the mixture over
the mushrooms to coat them evenly. Place mushrooms on a large baking sheet and bake for 10-20 minutes
until mostly
soft. In a medium bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and the remaining 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4
tsp pepper, and 1
tbsp oil. Remove mushrooms from the oven and fill each with the tomato mixture. Return to the oven and
bake for an
additional 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and tomatoes are wilted. Drizzle each mushroom with
1/2 tsp vinegar
before serving. Add any Protein, such as Grilled Chicken or Tofu if you desire. Enjoy!
Risk Resource
Living at Work with Diabetes
By creating a workplace that supports health and wellness through thoughtful programs and policies, we can reduce risks and improve everyone's well-being. Small changes can make a big difference!
Here are some key ways workplaces can support employees with Diabetes:
- Offer on-site health screenings for blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, BMI, and waist circumference.
- Educate employees about diabetes risks, symptoms, and management to reduce stigma and increase awareness.
- Provide training on recognizing and managing blood sugar fluctuations to ensure a safer work environment.
- Consider ergonomic support to employees with physical challenges related to Diabetes.
- Offer accommodations like private space for testing and insulin administration, healthy snacks, and flexible scheduling.
If you are interested in an on-site health fair for your school/employer, please ask your benefit specialist to make a request with NMPSIA.
After learning about self-help resources to maintain a healthy and productive lifestyle, it's time to focus on Staff and Students
ATTN: For all educators, coaches, activity directors, and staff who have any contact with students:
Free training is available through POMS, in association with NMPSIA, to provide further education on creating a safer environment for students. The training course, “Setting the Standard: Putting an End to Sexual Abuse in New Mexico Schools”, is available under the Policy tab in Vector Solutions, and is mandatory for coaches and activities directors through NMAA. Completion of this training will count towards the State’s requirement for sexual abuse misconduct training.
New Training Now Available to Staff & Students
This training isn’t just about what students and staff should steer clear of—it’s about helping them build strong, respectful, and healthy relationships. It gives the tools needed to tackle the challenges of today’s world, both online and offline, with confidence. We’re not just teaching them to react—we’re empowering them to lead with kindness and care. It’s about preparing them to make smart, positive choices wherever they go. Let’s equip them to thrive in every part of their lives!
If you are interested in learning more or want to schedule a training, please reach out to Angelique Sedillo at Poms & Associates: asedillo@pomsassoc.com
Other valuable trainings can be accessed HERE!
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Practices:
Staff-to-Student - FERPA:
Confidentiality of Records - Hazing Prevention in K12 Environments
- HIPAA Overview
- Playground Maintenance & Inspection
- Playground Supervision
- Sexual Harassment:
Staff-to-Staff - Student Alcohol and Substance Abuse
- Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Prevention
- Cybersecurity Overview
- Cybersecurity Awareness for Employees:
End-User Best Practices - Cybersecurity Awareness for Employees:
Security Awareness Essentials - Cybersecurity Awareness for Employees: Social Engineering
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Practices:
Staff-to-Staff
To get started with Vector Solutions, just fill out the online form.
If you need additional assistance or have questions, please email Kevin McDonald at Poms &
Associates at kmcdonald@pomsassoc.com.