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In today's world, change is a constant. The new year will bring
some benefits changes in your Blue Shield of California health
plan. We've highlighted them below. Rates are also
increasing by 30-34%, beginning in February.
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Prescription Benefits Changes for January 1 |
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Brand Drug Deductible Doubles for 1500 and 2000 Plans
The brand-name drug deductible is increasing from $250 to
$500 per insured for the PPO 1500 and PPO 2000.
Prescription Drug Copayments Standardized
Copayments for prescription drugs have been standardized
across individual plans (excluding the PPO Savings Plans) as
follows:
- Generic Rx: $10
- Brand Rx: $25
- Non-Formulary Rx: greater of $50 or 50% ($150 cap)
- Mail Order Rx: twice the retail copay
Prescription Weight Loss Drug Coverage
Appetite suppressants and other weight loss drugs will not
be covered except as medically necessary for treatment of
morbid obesity.
Smoking Cessation
All plans will include a smoking cessation benefit.
These are highlights of changes only. Please see your Blue
Shield materials for details on all current changes.
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Problems Paying on Time? Autopay with Your Credit Card |
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Blue Shield now offers individual clients the option of
paying your premium by automatic payment with a Visa or
Mastercard.
It's a great way to earn miles or reward points, and
ensures that your health coverage is continuous.
You can also choose to pay by automatic deduction from your
checking account.
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Staying Healthy Through Flu Season |
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Got your flu shot? If you haven't yet received a flu
shot this year, call your doctor to schedule an appointment.
Flue vaccinations must be medically necessary and
pre-authorized.
The CDC recommends flu shots for high-risk categories, such
as young children, older adults, and people with chronic
conditions or illnesses.
Other basic steps you can take are:
- avoiding close contact with people who are sick
- avoid touching your hands to face, eyes, nose and mouth
- washing your hands often
- staying home if you're sick
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Hospital Tiers Removed |
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The designation of Choice and Affiliate providers is being
removed. All hospitals and facilities will have the same copay
for the same plan. You can check your copayment level online
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Help us help you! |
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If you run into a challenging benefits situation, let us know.
We'll help you solve it!
Thanks for being our client! We appreciate your business.
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A Message from Individual Specialist Elaine Young
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Welcome to our online newsletter for clients with personal
benefits! We want to keep you up to date with plan changes,
give you tips on using your plan and offer general personal
benefits planning advice.
If you have specific topics you'd like to see covered, let
us know!
We appreciate your business. If there's any way we can be
of service call us at 415.543.8949
or if you have a benefits question, email me at eyoung@shargel.com
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