A pandemic of emails!!
Out of hundreds of communiques from insurers, CDC, Healthcare.gov, HHS, the Commissioner of Insurance, etc., how do I choose a Tip topic? Or, keep it to 30 Seconds?
Here’s what seems most timely:
- Anthem Blue Cross and UnitedhealthCare are allowing a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for employees who previously waived coverage. If enrolled as a single, they can add dependents. The SEP is now through April 3 (Anthem) or 6th (UHC), with a 4/1 effective date however, plan changes will not be permitted.
While this SEP would demonstrate compassion, it would also add to cost. I’m advised it’s discretionary.
- Employers hardest hit by the crisis may not have paid their March premium. I just received an extended grace period for one client, but have been told that will rarely be granted and only on a case by case basis. (If you switch carriers every year, don’t even think about asking.)
Caution! If at the end of the extended grace period, you still don’t pay the premium, coverage would be cancelled back to 3/1 and your employees could be left holding the bag for any claims incurred.
Hope this wasn’t just more clutter.
P.S. Read JS’ Guy Boulton’s story here for more ‘Tips.’
