Further support
I want to explore other resources and considerations
Consider all that’s available to support you as you navigate your bone and joint health journey.
Whether you’re facing a diagnosis or supporting a loved one, know that you have resources that can help.
Protect your finances and peace of mind
Maximize your financial resources
From doctor visits to treatments to medications, caring for a bone, joint or other musculoskeletal condition can be time-consuming and costly. The Dow medical plans provide comprehensive coverage and protect you through out-of-pocket maximums. In addition to the financial protection provided by your medical coverage, you have specific benefits through Dow designed to help you focus on getting better rather than the cost of your care.
Take time away from work when needed
Prioritizing your health and wellbeing is important. If you need to take time away from work to take care of your health or the health of a loved one, you have options including paid time off for your own health needs, as well as paid and unpaid leave options, and vacation time.
Know your resources at work
When managing a bone, joint or other musculoskeletal condition, remember that Dow offers a variety of workplace resources to support you. This includes a supportive environment where you can prioritize your personal wellbeing while continuing to contribute to your role in a way that works best for you.
You can explore options like:
- Adjusted work hours to accommodate appointments and manage other aspects of caring for your condition.
- Workplace accommodations and ergonomic solutions to adapt your workspace or tasks based on your needs.
- A gradual return-to-work plan to ease back into your role if you need to take an extended time away for your care and recovery.
With flexible work arrangements, you have more freedom to choose how, when, and where you work, while still meeting your job responsibilities. Consider if a flexible work arrangement might make sense for you.
Flexible work arrangements
Flexible work arrangements provide more freedom to choose how, when, and where you work, while still meeting your job responsibilities. Consider if one might make sense for you.
When you’re ready to return to work
If you’ve taken time away from work to care for your health or the health of a loved one, resources are available through Dow Occupational Health (OH) to support your transition of returning to work. OH staff can also help identify and facilitate requests for work-related accommodations where appropriate. Learn more and contact OH staff.
Be sure to take advantage of the “Returning to Your Workplace” Journey on the Dow Wellbeing Portal to make your return to work a smooth process while managing daily expectations.
Take charge of your workspace
- Ergonomic Solutions — Offers guidance on selecting ergonomic tools and equipment, highlighting recommended choices and those to use with caution or avoid.
- Ergonomic Assessment — Allows you to evaluate your current workspace ergonomics and receive a score based on your responses, helping you identify areas for improvement.
- Ergonomic Accommodations — Request ergonomic equipment and workplace adjustments that can help you better manage your musculoskeletal condition and perform your job comfortably.
Consider caregiver support
Supporting a patient, as a caregiver
As a caregiver, it’s important to balance your needs with those of your loved one. Many of the resources in this guide are available to caregivers as well as patients. For example, you can:
- Take time off from work for appointments.
- Use the support available through the TOOTRiS and Cariloop programs to help find quality, safe and affordable childcare and eldercare, as well as personalized support and resources for caregivers. Keep in mind, you may be eligible for the Childcare Assistance Program.
- Find a support group like the Caregivers at Dow Community.
- Take advantage of the Empowering Self-care for Caregivers journey. Go to the Dow Wellbeing Portal.
- If you’re enrolled in an Aetna medical plan, Teladoc offers convenient caregiver resources — at the same cost as a general telemedicine visit. Visit TeladocHealth.com/Aetna or call (855) 835-2362 (855-Teladoc) to take advantage of Aetna’s caregiver services.
- Consider an app like Calendly to keep track of ongoing appointments.
Remember to take meaningful time to care for yourself: go for a walk, sit down to watch a movie or take time for your favorite hobby.
Explore external resources
The resources below can provide additional helpful information and support.*
- The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIH) is an organization that supports those with MSDs through education and research into the causes, treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal and skin diseases.
- OrthoInfo.org is a website sponsored by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) that offers reliable information on musculoskeletal conditions and treatments. It can help you understand your condition, learn about treatment options, and make informed decisions about your care.
- The Arthritis Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to conquering arthritis through research, advocacy, and patient support. They provide resources, information, and connections to help individuals manage their arthritis and live fulfilling lives.
* This information is for informational purposes and convenience only; Dow is not responsible for the accuracy of information contained in third-party sites and does not recommend or endorse the content provided on the site; information provided is not meant to replace a physician’s medical advice.
Content Steward: Dow North America Benefits | (833) 693-6947 (MYDOWHR)
LIT #318-70654 | January 2025