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​​​​​THE TRUSTEE 

 May 2026
Vol XIX, No. 189

Skin Cancer Prevention:

Smart Summer Habits That Protect Your Skin

Summer is a time for beach trips, outdoor sports, gardening, and vacations, but it is also the season when ultraviolet (UV) exposure is at its highest. According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds is one of the leading preventable risk factors. UV rays damage skin cells over time, increasing the risk of developing basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Even on cloudy days, harmful UV rays can penetrate the skin, making sun protection important whenever you spend time outdoors.

Anyone can develop skin cancer regardless of skin tone or age, although some people have a higher risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that people with fair skin, light-colored eyes, freckles, a history of frequent sunburns, or a family history of skin cancer may be more vulnerable. Individuals who work outdoors, participate in outdoor recreation, or use indoor tanning beds also face increased exposure to harmful UV radiation. However, experts emphasize that skin cancer can affect people of all skin tones, which is why preventive habits are important for everyone.

One of the most effective ways to protect your skin is daily sunscreen use. The Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and applying it about 15 minutes before going outside. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours and after swimming or excessive sweating. Areas commonly missed include the ears, scalp, lips, hands, and tops of the feet. Protective clothing can also help reduce UV exposure. Wide-brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, and lightweight long-sleeved clothing provide an extra layer of defense during outdoor activities. 

Limiting direct sun exposure during peak daylight hours can further reduce skin damage. The sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Seeking shade under umbrellas, trees, or covered areas can help minimize exposure, especially during extended outdoor events. Avoiding tanning beds is equally important. Research from the Skin Cancer Foundation shows that indoor tanning significantly increases the risk of melanoma and accelerates premature skin aging. A tan may seem harmless, but it is actually a visible sign of skin damage. Children and teens should be encouraged to develop sun-safe habits early in life. The World Health Organization states that intense sun exposure and blistering sunburns during childhood can greatly increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. Parents can help by encouraging children to wear hats and sunglasses, apply sunscreen regularly, and take breaks in shaded areas during outdoor play. Teaching these habits early can help establish lifelong protective behaviors.

Early detection is another key part of skin cancer prevention. Health experts recommend performing monthly skin self-examinations and scheduling routine skin checks with a healthcare provider or dermatologist if there are concerns. Warning signs may include new moles, spots that change in color or size, sores that do not heal, or growths that itch or bleed. The commonly used “ABCDE” rule for melanoma includes asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven color, diameter larger than 6 millimeters, and evolving appearance over time. Detecting suspicious changes early greatly improves treatment outcomes.

Protecting your skin is an important part of overall health and wellness, especially during the summer months. By wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, avoiding tanning beds, and staying alert to changes in your skin, you can significantly reduce your risk of skin cancer while continuing to enjoy outdoor activities safely.

Adapted/ taken from the CDC, American Cancer Society, and WHO.

Manifest Patient Portal Now Available

Frequently members have asked if Manifest has a patient portal. The trust is happy to announce that there is now one available to Kingston Trust Fund members. It is a simple and secure way to manage your prescriptions on-line The portal allows members to refill prescriptions, track delivery status, see prescription history as well as make payments. See the attached flyer to set up your patient portal today! Or follow the link below. https://manifestrx.doseform.com/auth/login

Retiree Dental Premium Holiday

Retiree members currently enrolled in the Kingston Trust Fund medical plan and the Kingston Trust Fund Dental insurance plan will not receive the traditional purple dental billing in June this year. At the recent Trust meeting, the trustees voted to institute a premium holiday for the 2026-2027 plan year. This means retirees who are currently covered by the dental plan will not have a premium payment for dental insurance for the

20026-2027 year. All new retirees should follow the instructions for maintaining health and dental benefits in retirement listed in the Welcome to Retirement letter they receive. Retiree members who have medical insurance through another plan will be notified of the cost of dental coverage, along with the instructions for submitting payment.

June is Open Enrollment

June is open enrollment for Health Insurance coverage. The Trust has scheduled an Open Enrollment Information session at the Mid-Hudson Regional NYSUT Conference Center located at 201 Stockade Drive, Kingston, on Wednesday June 10, from 4-6:00 PM. It is by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, or if you would like to discuss changes, options or have questions, please email Lauri Naccarato at lauri@ktftrustfund.com for information.

Understanding Magnacare Subrogation Letters

Many members have asked about letters they receive from Magnacare after a doctor or hospital submits a claim. The letter states

THIS CLAIM POTENTIALLY INVOLVES A WORK-RELATED INJURY, AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENT-RELATED INJURY, OR OTHER THIRD-PARTY LIABILITY. WE FORWARDED A QUESTIONNAIRE TO THE PATIENT REQUESTING ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. THE CLAIM MAY BE RECONSIDERED UPON RECEIPT OF THE REQUESTED INFORMATION.

These are called subrogation letters. They verify that your injury or illness was not caused by an accident where another insurance company or legal settlement should pay first. This process ensures the Trust protects its funds by recouping money from the responsible parties.

What you need to do:

· Return the letter: Fill out, sign, and return the letter to Magnacare right away so your claims can be processed.

· One letter per injury: You only need to complete this paperwork once per injury. Disregard any duplicate letters for the same incident.

· Track your claims: Use the mycreatehealth app to monitor your claim's status.

· Watch out for denials: If your claim is denied for "subrogation," it simply means Magnacare is still waiting on your signed letter.

 
 
 

In Memoriam

Daniel Ligotti