UnitedHealth Group recognizes there are disparities in health care within multicultural populations and has created a strategy to close these differences.

To achieve this goal, a health awareness program has begun to target diabetic African-American and Hispanic UnitedHealth Group members (UnitedHealthcare, Ovations and AmeriChoice) who have been identified via claims data as having a gap in care or being in need of health screenings.

The program will be conducted in Florida/Georgia, Alabama/Louisiana/Mississippi, Texas, Arizona, and New York.

Member Notification
Starting mid-October through mid-November, two mailers will be sent to affected members explaining the need for diabetic screenings including a cholesterol test, dilated eye exam, urine test for protein and a foot exam.

The mailers will use key messages specific to each group, but in both communications, members will be:

• Informed of self-care and routine care for their diabetes.
• Reminded of the need to keep track of their appointments.
• Asked to call a nurse with questions about testing or how to care for diabetes.
• Encouraged to schedule an appointment with their doctor to close these gaps in their diabetes care.

The mailer will include a tear-off health log where the consumer can record their health screening results. This piece will keep personal health information hidden from outside view.

Future Programs
The pilot will be expanded to include other geographical areas once data has been reviewed and verified. Additionally, study practices will be incorporated into disease management programs.