COPD Management Program for South Region TRICARE beneficiaries

Oct 12 2009

Humana Military Healthcare Services, a wholly owned subsidiary of Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM), announced today an additional benefit available for South Region TRICARE beneficiaries. The Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Management Program offers telephonic education and coaching by dedicated registered nurses. COPD is a lung disease that blocks airflow and causes breathing difficulties. Humana Military began offering this program October 1, 2009.

“We are happy to offer our beneficiaries this additional resource as part of our mission of delivering high quality and cost effective healthcare services,” said Dave Baker, president and CEO of Humana Military. “This disease management program offers education and assistance to beneficiaries with COPD in an effort to relieve and manage symptoms of the disease,” said Baker.

Coaching sessions will focus on:

• Smoking cessation
• Avoidance of secondhand smoke
• Self management
• Exercise
• Oxygen use and safety
• Medication adherence
• Understanding the purpose of medications

Beneficiaries will also receive information regarding signs and symptoms of infection, when to call their physician or seek emergency treatment, and resources to help manage stress or anxiety. Humana Military also offers disease management services for heart failure, asthma, and diabetes. Participants in the program are encouraged to take a breathing test and will have access to web resources, as well as a toll free number, 1-800-881-9227, to call for assistance or for information about enrolling in the program.