Patty Gibson, M.D.
Medical Director
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield
They say, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” So, what does the picture of your whole person health look like? For some, it’s staying healthy enough to play with their grandkids. Others might value watching their diet to control blood sugar spikes, talking about their struggles with peers, or taking healthy steps toward substance use recovery.
Whole Person Health
Whole person health means different things to different people. It varies with their circumstances and lifestyles. As you navigate through different stages of life, your understanding of what it means to achieve whole person health will change. But, no matter how much it may change, it’s vital to address both your medical and non-medical needs. This will improve your overall health, wellness, and peace of mind.
At Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, we want all Arkansans to Take Good Care. We want you and your loved ones to live your best life, for your whole life long. Our plans offer programs for a variety of members’ needs and help them care for their health when and where they need it most, including those who misuse substances.
Supporting People with Substance Use Disorder
For some, the journey toward whole person health may involve recovering from a substance use disorder. Substance use and addiction affects every demographic. It affects adolescents to older adults, across all ages, ethnicities, and genders in both rural and urban areas. Addiction can play a negative role for people and their families, both in their personal lives and at work. In some cases, substance misuse can even be fatal.
In recent years, drug overdose deaths have increased in Arkansas. Even more so because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic contributed to a variety of hardships that left some people struggling, including coping with substance use or dealing with new mental health conditions.
Supporting individuals with substance use disorder requires an empathetic and understanding approach. Arkansas Blue Cross is dedicated to helping communities through peer support programs. These programs connect people who are struggling with others with similar experiences or struggles.
These programs provide resources and support members in a variety of ways:
- Peer Support Networks: Our health team includes trained peer support specialists, individuals who have overcome substance use disorder themselves and are now in lifelong recovery. These networks create a space for members to learn, share, and get guidance on the path to health and wellbeing.
- Case Management: Our case management team will get you the help you need using your health benefits. Arkansas Blue Cross case managers build a tailored plan with members that address their unique needs and barriers to care. This can mean a hand to hold in scheduling appointments, discussing treatment options, and accessing additional resources available nearby.
- Normalize the Conversation: Through the AR ConnectNow platform, Arkansans can access mental healthcare help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This ensures that support is always available.
- Blue & You Fitness Challenge: Our annual fitness event promotes exercise, hydration, and mindfulness. Prioritizing exercise boosts physical health which can make you mentally strong too. It also builds self-discipline, which for some is key to their sobriety.
Our Commitment
A whole person approach enables us to take a broader view of health and healthcare. By understanding the links between various factors, we can better address physical and mental health throughout our state. We can then develop programs that truly help all Arkansans.
At Arkansas Blue Cross, we know the importance of recognizing the symptoms of substance use disorder in both yourself and in your loved ones. If you’re a member in need of support, call the substance use member hotline: 877-326-2458. Licensed clinicians are available 24/7. They aim to understand your needs, educate you on treatment options, and connect you or your loved ones with the right providers. Licensed clinicians are available 24/7. They aim to understand your needs, educate you on treatment options, and connect you or your loved ones with the right providers.
We’re here to support your whole person health journey, meeting you where you are and helping you navigate the path to a healthier, more fulfilling life.