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In This Issue

 

Two Federal Appeals Courts Rule on Subsidies 

  

 

Question of the Week

We know that health care reform requires insured group health plans to satisfy nondiscrimination rules. What is the status of those rules? Are employers that sponsor insured plans required to comply with them, and if so, when?..

 

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INSURANCE SPOTLIGHT

August 4, 2014

Carrier News

Premera's Updated Member Dashboard and Mobile App

Premera's snazzy new dashboard layout makes it easier to find and use website tools such as: ordering prescriptions, connect with preventive services such as health risk assessments, weight and activity tracking, and care guides for common conditions, as well as access to online EOBs. The new tools also help members track deductibles and estimate treatment costs

 

The mobile app has some new tricks and improved experience such as new features to track your deductible, check coverage for a referral, and check claim status. It will also help to find a doctor or hospital, email proof of coverage to the doctor, and connect with the 24-hour NurseLine.

 

You can find out more about the many mobile apps available to Premera members by visiting Premera.com

 

RegenceRx and Costco Team Up For Flu Season

Each season, the flu kills about 36,000 Americans, Flu Shots hospitalizes 200,000+ and costs our economy more than $10 billion in lost productivity and direct medical expenses. Thanks to a partnership between RegenceRx® and Costco, one of their participating pharmacies, it's easy for our employer groups to protect their employees and their workplaces against the flu. Costco membership is not required.

 

Groups can consult this flyer for more information and to set up onsite immunization clinics (for groups over 50 lives) with Costco.

 

Regence Upgrades Member Site

Regence has recently upgraded and merged their member site and company site. This means both members and employers will have just one site to visit for all the great information they rely on such as account information, claims, and cost and wellness tools.

 

The upgraded platform will be faster and more reliable. It provides simpler claims and benefits views, new and engaging health wellness programs and much more. When members log on to myRegence.com they'll be directed to a new log-in window at regence.com.  They just need their existing user ID and password, it's that easy.      

 

Federal & State News

The IRS has released an information letter explaining the basic rules that determine whether parking provided at no charge to employees is subject to FICA, FUTA, and federal income tax withholding. The letter was issued in response to an inquiry about an employer that provides free onsite parking to its employees. Read more 

 

CourtTwo Federal Appeals Courts Rule on Subsidies

gavel Two federal appeals courts have recently issued contradictory rulings on whether individuals enrolling in health plans offered through Marketplaces run by the federal government are eligible for subsidies to help pay for their coverage.  

 

The D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that subsidies could go only to individuals enrolled through Marketplaces established by states. The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals (Richmond, VA) ruled that individuals enrolled through Marketplaces established by the federal government are eligible for subsidies. Only 16 states and the District of Columbia set up their own Marketplaces.  All other states deferred to the federal Marketplace.  Washington State has set up their own Marketplace.   

 

In both cases, a review by the full panel of judges on each of these Circuit Courts may be requested, and appeals to the Supreme Court are likely if the lower courts remain split.  The law remains unchanged and current subsidies will remain in place until the legal case plays out.   

 

Health & Wellness

August is National Immunization Awareness Month

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are promoting shot_preparation.jpg August as National Immunization Awareness Month. Immunization helps prevent dangerous and sometimes deadly diseases. To stay protected against serious illnesses like the flu, measles, and tuberculosis, adults need to get their shots - just like kids do.


National Immunization Awareness Month is a great time to promote vaccines and remind family, friends, and coworkers to stay up to date on their shots.  Read more 

 
If you have any questions about the articles contained in this newsletter, please give us a call or e-mail us: