Health care is an extremely popular topic with consumers and business leaders. If you're looking for story ideas, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota (Blue Cross) can help. Some story ideas and experts are listed below. For more information on any of these ideas contact Jean Miller at (651) 662-6479 or Jean_M_Miller@bluecrossmn.com.

Now's the time to consider next year's health care insurance

Be sure to take an interest and determine which coverage best suits your situation, just don't default to the same selection as last year. To better help Minnesotans make educated health care decisions, Blue Cross has created several online tools that compare individual and family policies and evaluate costs and quality (for Blue Cross members). A Blue Cross' marketing officer can address how to best use online tools to help make your 2010 coverage decision easier.

Stories from Minnesotans sought for new "do" campaign commercial

As part of Blue Cross' ongoing efforts to prevent obesity, the company will be airing a new ad campaign this fall using its do campaign that encourages physical activity. In hopes of inspiring others, the new ads build on do's original message to “Groove your body every day" by highlighting success stories gathered from Minnesotans who are grooving their body more and are eating better. A few participants may even be selected to appear in this fall’s new do campaign TV spots. People interested in sharing how they lost weight or how they stay fit can visit www.do-stories.com. To find out more about this campaign or speak to an expert who can provide tips on moving more and eating better, give us a call.

Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) can now reimburse your checking or savings account

By now you know you can set aside pre-tax dollars in anticipation of medical or dental expenses you'll have throughout the year. But, did you know that your FSA reimbursements can be electronically deposited into your checking or savings account? SelectAccount saves participants the extra steps of waiting for and then depositing reimbursement checks. Let us know if you'd like to find out more about "crossover" techniques and the latest ins and outs of FSAs.

Blue Cross receives award for workplace wellness

Blue Cross was one of only three Minnesota companies recently recognized as a Start! Fit-Friendly Company by the American Heart Association at the highest level possible – platinum. Those receiving the award offer employees physical activity and healthy eating options in the workplace, promote a culture of wellness and demonstrate measurable outcomes related to workplace wellness. The award is part of the Association’s Start! movement for helping employees eat better and move more. Contact us to learn more about this award and Blue Cross' specific wellness efforts.