Open enrollment for health benefits ends November 22

Open enrollment (the time when you are allowed to change your health plan) ends for active members on November 22, 2010. If you did not receive a package in the mail, contact TA Employee Benefits and arrange to get one now. Consider your options and respond immediately.

This year there is an added wrinkle.

The TA is changing our health benefit carriers (the companies that manage our health benefits). As of January 1st, Empire Blue Cross/Blue Shield will be taking over for GHI and United Health Care (UHC) will be replacing HIP.

As the administrators of our plan, management does have the right to seek the lowest cost carriers, as long as they do not reduce our benefits in any way. Local 100 was not part of this decision. However, we will continue to police the contract, fighting to ensure that we keep all the benefits to which we are entitled.

To succeed, we need the help of every member.
If you have been improperly denied services, or your coverage has been cut in any way, do not remain silent.

IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM:
IB ImageFIRST, please attempt to resolve the problem by contacting the TA Employee Benefits department directly. Their number is (347-643-8550).

NEXT if Employee Benefits is either unwilling or unable to resolve your problem, contact the Local 100’s Member Services Department immediately. That number is (347-643-8061, 64, 65, 69).

Remember, whatever problem you are facing could affect other members as well. When you get Member Services involved, not only does it help you resolve your personal issue, but it helps us to prevent this from becoming a problem for other members as well.

If you are unable to get your issues addressed by contacting EB or Member Services, please call Recording Secretary Benita Johnson (212-873-6000, ext. 2126). She is here to help with any of your concerns and welcomes your comments.