May is National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month—a peak season for one in every five Americans with allergies or asthma.Respond to allergy symptoms with a proactive approach. Monitor pollen and mold counts online, via mobile app or through the local news. Since allergies may trigger severe medical conditions like asthma, caution is key. Close your home and car windows. Avoid open fields, especially on high-pollen count days. Stay indoors when pollen is especially prevalent––like in the morning, or during windy days.

“It’s important to keep track of your symptoms, when you use your medicines and how much you use,” said Sutter Health Plus Pharmacy Director, Patrick Robinson. “This helps your doctor figure out what’s right for you. You may need to try a few different medicines to determine which ones work best and have the fewest negative side effects for you.”

Allergy testing, evaluation and treatment are covered benefits for
Sutter Health Plus members when medically necessary and referred by a primary care physician. Prior authorization for allergy testing and treatment may be required, and seeing an allergist is covered under the specialist office visit copay. Visit the Member Portal and check your Evidence of Coverage for more details.