February is American Heart Month. According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups. As we begin the new year, now is an ideal time to schedule your 2025 annual physical with your primary care physician (PCP). It's important to note that these appointments can fill up quickly, often booking months in advance. Taking the time to schedule early ensures your spot and provides an opportunity for a comprehensive check-up, including an evaluation of your heart health. Prioritizing this appointment can be a key step toward maintaining your overall well-being throughout the year.
While you wait for your physical, as a State of Maryland employee, take advantage of the 2025 Wellness Program Activities, which can save you money. By completing a health survey and confirming your PCP in 2025, you will receive free PCP visits through 12/31/2026. Additionally, you can earn up to a $10 reduction on specialist copays until the end of 2026 by completing certain screenings, including checking your blood pressure and completing a comprehensive metabolic blood panel (plus an annual eye exam). Your enrolled spouse or domestic partner must complete the Wellness Activities to get the reduction in copays.
Click here to see what screening options are available to you.
Perks@Work Feature: Get $350 from SECU
Straight from SECU: for a limited time, new SECU members (who are also UMD faculty & staff) get $350 for opening a SECU Total™ Checking & Rewards account! From now through March 31, 2025, when you open a SECU checking & rewards account and set up UMD direct deposit, the credit union will give you $350 to spend (or save) freely. Learn more here.