In order to offer a medical plan that better suits the needs of more participants than does the current Aetna Open Choice plan -- in terms of the benefits offered as well as its affordability -- the Office of Human Resources is introducing a new medical plan administered by Aetna.
The new plan replaces Aetna Open Choice and will be offered in addition to the current HealthNow plan effective January 1, 2004.
This year, the re-enrollment period for Individual Choice elections will be held from Monday, November 10, through Friday, November 21. You will receive your 2004 enrollment packet before the start of the re-enrollment process. Please note there can be no exceptions to the deadline of November 21.
The new plan offering is called the Aetna Open Access Managed Choice (OAMC) plan. It is a healthcare plan that enables members to take an active role in their health care needs by providing plan flexibility and choice. Some highlights of the plan include the following:
- The OAMC provider network is a comprehensive national network of providers.
- Members can choose to have medical services provided by non-network providers, with benefits payable at a lower level than for services provided by participating network providers.
- The selection of a primary care physician (PCP) is not required, but is encouraged.
- No referrals are necessary, so members have more flexibility in who delivers their care and how they access it.
- Coverage for preventive services (physical exams, well-child care, immunizations) when performed by an in-network provider are covered expenses.
Rates for the OAMC Plan will be significantly lower than the rates that would have been charged had the current Open Choice plan been continued. Employees who choose the OAMC plan will see some changes to the benefits that are currently offered under the Aetna Open Choice plan.
For more specific details regarding the Aetna Open Access Plan please visit our website.
New Medical Plan Offering for 2004
There will be information on both medical plan offerings as well as rate information in the re-enrollment packet you will be receiving soon. If you still have questions after reviewing the materials in the packet or visiting our website, please visit Aetna at the Benefits Fair on November 13 or contact the
benefits department, 274-3245.
Contributed by Cheryl Freer
