Good Work Austin Healthcare Program FAQ

How do I access my Member Portal?

Go to: senderohealth.com → Members → Member Benefits Portal 

To register, you’ll need:

  • Your Member ID (on your ID card)

  • Your email address

  • Basic personal information 

In the portal, you can:

  • See your copays, deductible progress, and out-of-pocket totals

  • Check claims and what the plan paid

  • Print or download your ID card

  • Search for in-network doctors and pharmacies

  • Change your Primary Care Provider (PCP) 

Using in-network providers keeps your costs lower. 

What does “in-network” mean?

In-network providers have a contract with Sendero and offer care at lower, agreed-upon costs. Out-of-network providers usually cost more or may not be covered at all 

Always confirm a provider accepts Sendero before your appointment to avoid surprise bills 

What is a Primary Care Provider (PCP)?

Your PCP is your main doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant for routine care, checkups, preventive care, and ongoing health conditions. Sendero assigns a PCP automatically when your plan starts, but you can change it at any time in the Member Portal 

What care is covered?

Your Sendero plan includes:

Primary & Preventive Care
Annual checkups, screenings, vaccines, and routine care 

Emergency Care
Call 911 in an emergency. Sendero is accepted at Austin hospitals 

Specialty Care
You do not need a referral to see a specialist 

Urgent Care
Walk-in clinics for non-life-threatening conditions 

24/7 Virtual Telemedicine ($0 Cost)
Phone or video visits through NormanMD for common illnesses 

Does my GWA health plan include dental or vision?

No. The GWA health plan does not include dental or vision coverage. 

What preventive care is covered at no cost?

When you use in-network providers, many preventive services are covered at no cost, including:

  • Annual wellness visits

  • Vaccines

  • Cancer screenings

  • Mental health screenings

  • Sexual and reproductive health services 

Ask for a “preventive visit” when scheduling to avoid confusion between preventive and problem-focused visits. 

How does the pharmacy process work?

After your appointment, your provider sends your prescription electronically to your chosen pharmacy 

In-network pharmacies include:

  • H-E-B

  • Costco

  • CVS

Walgreens is not covered under this plan. 

If a prescription is expensive:

  • Ask if there is a generic option

  • Ask your doctor about alternatives

  • Confirm whether prior authorization is required

  • Ask about discount programs 

Mental Health Coverage & Resources

Is mental health care covered?

Yes. Mental health care is fully part of your health coverage. You do not need a referral from your PCP to schedule with a mental health provider.

You do not need to be in crisis to use it. Therapy and psychiatry are appropriate for stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, sleep issues, grief, relationship challenges, and more 

What types of mental health services are included?

Your plan includes:

Therapy
Ongoing sessions with a licensed therapist or counselor 

Psychiatry
A medical provider who can diagnose conditions and prescribe medication 

Virtual visits
Phone or video therapy or psychiatry appointments 

Substance use treatment
Detox, residential treatment, Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and outpatient services 

Inpatient residential treatment
Live-in structured treatment programs 

How do I find a therapist or psychiatrist?

Use the Provider Search Tool in your Member Portal 

Under “Specialty,” search for:

  • Counselor (talk therapy)

  • Psychologist (clinical therapy)

  • Psychiatrist (medication management)

  • Social Worker (good starting point if unsure) 

You can filter by location. It may take several calls to find someone accepting new clients. That’s normal.

You can also visit Thrive by Sendero: Mental Health Matters for guidance and resources 

What is Thrive by Sendero?

Thrive by Sendero is a dedicated mental health resource page that helps you:

  • Understand different levels of care

  • Learn when to use therapy vs psychiatry

  • Find crisis resources

  • Locate in-network providers

  • Explore telehealth options 

What if I am in crisis?

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It is free, confidential, and available 24/7. 

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

How can I manage stress in daily life?

Chronic stress affects sleep, mood, immune health, and long-term wellbeing. 

Small, consistent habits make a difference:

  • Protect your sleep

  • Take short breaks during work

  • Practice breathing or meditation

  • Spend time in nature

  • Stay connected with others

If stress becomes constant or overwhelming, mental health support is part of your plan. 

How can I be my own health advocate?

Before appointments:

  • Write down symptoms and questions

During visits:

  • Ask for clarification

  • Slow down the conversation

  • Ask about next steps

  • Seek a second opinion if needed 

What is included in my Good Work Austin membership?

As a participant in the GWA healthcare program, you receive a free GWA membership. Your free membership includes:

  • Healthy Workplaces training

  • Resource library

  • Member meetups

  • Advocacy opportunities

  • Private Slack community 

Who should I contact if I have questions?

It’s easier to address issues early. Reach out if you:

  • Receive a premium bill

  • Can’t find a doctor

  • Have pharmacy issues

  • Don’t receive your ID card

  • Feel unsure where to go for care