Benefit Briefs Newsletter
The Benefit Briefs newsletter highlights important Texas A&M University System benefit changes and information about your insurance and retirement plans. The Benefit Briefs archives are available if you need past information.
If you have any questions or concerns about the Benefits Brief newsletter, please contact System Benefits Administration at employeebenefits@tamus.edu or call (979) 458-6330.
Staying Healthy During the WinterCold winter months bring unique health challenges, from increased risk of respiratory illnesses like the flu to dry skin and disruptions in healthy routines. Staying healthy during this season is essential for maintaining your energy, preventing illness, and supporting both physical and mental well-being. When temperatures …
With Accolade Care, you can see and speak with a board-certified doctor or therapist right from your phone, tablet or computer. You have access to doctors who have trained at the top 50 U.S. medical schools, same-day virtual visits, physical and mental health support, and 24/7 support from your care …
Your gut is known as your “second brain.” This is because your gut has its own complex network of neurons that help regulate digestion, which can influence your mood and well-being. This close connection between your gut and brain shows how important gut health is for overall balance. When you …
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD or ADD, is often thought of as a condition experienced by children. But it is a lifelong condition that can be diagnosed in adults, too. In fact, trends show a rise in adult diagnoses in the last decade. The Center for Disease Control reports that …
After your death, your retirement plan assets pass to the beneficiaries named on your account. If you haven’t named beneficiaries and don’t have a spouse or children, your money may become part of your estate and go through probate. Avoid probateProbate is the administration of a deceased person’s will or …
It’s time for a heart-to-heart about prescription drug costs. February is American Heart Month, and with prescription drug prices on the rise it’s a good time to remember that we’ve partnered with Rx Savings Solutions (RxSS) to help you find lower-cost options for your medications—including those that keep your heart …
When you’re not feeling well, you might call your primary care doctor. With a little care, your doctor may have you on the road to recovery in no time. But what if your health issue is more serious? Your primary care doctor may say you need to see a specialist. …
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD or ADD, is often thought of as a condition experienced by children. But it is a lifelong condition that can be diagnosed in adults, too. In fact, trends show a rise in adult diagnoses in the last decade. The Center for Disease Control reports that …
You may have already made your New Year’s resolutions. You may have considered resolving to save money, get a better job or lose weight. Many people set new goals about having a healthier lifestyle in the new year. Why not make one of your New Year’s resolutions improving your dental …
2nd.MD is hosting an opportunity to learn from their experts. Below you’ll find the upcoming 2nd.MD House Calls webinars that will take place in February and April 2026. You are encouraged to register, send in questions, and attend live or on-demand. Join us at these upcoming 2nd.MD House Calls webinars:GLP-1s: …
Healthy Heart, Healthy You with Hello HeartHeart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States affecting nearly 60% of the population. There are several lifestyle habits shown to reduce risk and support prevention. Join TAMUS Wellness Coordinator, Cindy Quinn, and the Hello Heart Team to learn more …
Are you grateful for your healthy smile? This Thanksgiving, keep your teeth and gums healthy with smart food choices. Skip the sugarFrom pumpkin pie or a marshmallow-topped yam casserole, Thanksgiving dinner can be a delight for your sweet tooth. But all that sugar also serves up a feast for cavity-causing …
Conduent Business Services, LLC (“Conduent”) is a third-party service vendor that offers back-office support to companies such as Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, the current health plan administrator for the A&M Care and J Plan. Conduent experienced a cyber incident earlier this year and is providing notification via postal …
Learn the importance of designating a beneficiary, setting financial goals, and more with articles provided below by TIAA, one of A&M System’s retirement vendors. To learn more about A&M System’s retirement vendors and retirement information, view the Retirement Booklet. The importance of beneficiary designations: https://www.tiaa.org/public/retire/life-essentials/financial-planning-for-couples/importance-of-beneficiaries Naming a beneficiary on your …
What is patellar tendonitisPatellar tendonitis occurs when the patellar tendon — the tendon that connects the bottom of the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia) — becomes injured or inflamed, causing pain at the lower part of the kneecap. While patellar tendonitis can affect anyone, it’s often referred to as “jumper’s …
Colon cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. Getting screened for colon cancer is an important way to protect your health. Colon cancer can be successfully treated when it is found and treated early. Until it grows or spreads, colon cancer usually has no symptoms. …
Your Employee Assistance Program offers an app-based platform of digital self-care tools to help you tackle stress, depression and other common mental health issues–whenever and from wherever you need to. This new platform, called Koa Care 360, is a powerful, self-contained wellness solution that is both engaging and user-friendly. The …
Let’s talk about diabetes management through self care. Diabetes is a serious health problem. It is the 8th leading cause of death in the United States. People with diabetes are more likely to have other health problems like going blind, kidney damage, heart disease, stroke, or even losing a leg …
Millions of American adults suffer from chronic facial pain, such as jaw pain, headaches or earaches. The source of these aches and pains may be related to one or both of the temporomandibular joints. Located on each side of the head, these joints work together, with a complex system of …
The holidays can bring joy, but also remind us of family challenges, absent loved ones, and social media expectations—all of which can increase our feelings of loneliness. If you’re feeling lonely, sad, or anxious heading into the holiday season, connect with an MDLive mental health professional for help. Get caring …
