Is The Covid 19 vaccine covered by Medicare in 2024?

I s The Covid 19 vaccine covered by Medicare? Medicare does cover the updated (2023–2024 formula) Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for people 5 and older. If you’re immunocompromised (like people who have had an organ transplant and are at risk for infections and other diseases), you can get a 3-dose series of updated (2023–2024 formula. Have more Medicare questions? For more information contact your Total Benefit Solutions, Inc health insurance professionals at (215)355-2121

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CONSENT FOR HEALTH INSURANCE BROKER ASSISTANCE

CONSENT FOR BROKER ASSISTANCE FORM AS REQUIRED UNDER THE 2023 CMS-9899-F AMENDMENT OF 45 CFR § 155.220 Click here to complete the consent form This consent form outlines your rights. Please read it carefully. As a licensed Health Insurance Broker, Ed MacConnell  of  Total Benefit Solutions Inc  has completed the annual Affordable Care Act certification by the Marketplace in your state. With this yearly training, and an individual or family’s formal consent, brokers are authorized to search for and assist households with their Marketplace account. The purpose of this form is to receive your informed written consent. Terms of Consent I give my permission to Total Benefit Solutions Inc, and/or their staff… Read More

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Employer 2024 Penalties Associated with the ACA (Affordable Care Act)

Add New Post Employers with a large number of part time employees have unique challenges when it comes to ACA compliance. Those with 50 or more full-time or full-time equivalent employees must meet two important requirements of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), or be subject to penalties A and B, A PENALTY: Employers who fail to offer a Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) plan that provides certain wellness and preventive care to full-time employees may face a penalty of $2,970 per fulltime employee (minus the first 30). B PENALTY: A penalty of $4,460 per full-time employee who enrolls in a subsidized plan throughout a government exchange if the employer fails to… Read More

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2023 RxDC Reporting Instructions Released

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (“CMS”) recently updated its Prescription Drugs Data Collection (“RxDC”) reporting instructions for 2023 data. There are some noticeable differences. As previously reported, group health plan sponsors (typically employers) are required to submit information to CMS on prescription drugs and health care spending on an annual basis (“RxDC reporting”). The first reporting deadline for calendar years 2020 and 2021 was December 27, 2022 (extended to January 31, 2023). The next deadline for reporting on calendar year 2023 is June 1, 2024, which, despite being a Saturday, is a firm date. It should be noted that carriers, pharmacy benefit managers (“PBMs”), and third-party administrators (“TPAs”)… Read More

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Cheapest Health Insurance in Pennsylvania (2024 Plans)

Premium costs on Pennsylvania’s health insurance marketplace, Pennie vary by Catastrophic, Bronze, Silver or Gold tier. In Pennsylvania, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield offers the most affordable Bronze and Catastrophic plans, while UPMC Health Plan and Jefferson Health Plans provide the lowest-priced Gold and Silver plans in 2024, respectively. Of course, just because one plan costs less to buy does not make it the best plan to meet your needs. The health insurance experts at Total Benefit Solutions, Inc can shop the entire market for you, taking into account the healthcare needs of your family and guide you to the best plan for you. Contact us today at (215)355-2121.

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ACA’s Contraceptive Coverage: New FAQs Guide

On January 22, 2024, the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and the Treasury released a fresh set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), shedding light on the Affordable Care Act (ACA)’s imperative for non-grandfathered medical plans to include specific preventive services, notably contraceptives, without imposing any cost-sharing on individuals. The aim of these FAQs is to address concerns from stakeholders, facilitating a better understanding of the contraceptive coverage mandate and encouraging compliance through an alternative method. For detailed insights and further information, download the PDF below. We are dedicated to providing exceptional service, so please do not hesitate to contact our dedicated Total Benefit Solutions health insurance specialists at… Read More

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Horizon Members Get 15% Off YMCA Memberships!

Exciting news for Horizon members in New Jersey! We’re thrilled to share that you can now enjoy a 15 percent discount on monthly memberships at select New Jersey YMCAs. Plus, for new YMCA members, the initiation fee is completely waived when you present your Horizon member ID card. This fantastic offer is valid until December 31, 2024, providing you ample time to take advantage of the savings and embrace a healthier lifestyle. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or looking to kickstart your wellness journey, this exclusive discount is designed to make your YMCA experience even more accessible. Remember, this exclusive discount is a limited-time offer, so make the most of… Read More

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Case Study: A Voluntary Benefits Strategy

The Issue One of our clients approached us during a pre-renewal meeting to ask how they can further control costs without drastically impacting the well-being of their employees. Our Solution They already had done most of the things we had recommended in past years, but there was one area left that could help…voluntary benefits. We suggested they offer a portfolio of programs that included life and disability coverage, allowing them to reduce the scope of their “rich” company paid plans and enabling anyone interested to supplement the reduced benefits by purchasing the coverage on their own. This, we felt, was a great way to save premium dollars without creating too… Read More

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Cigna Healthcare and Tower Health Contract Updates

In a recent development, Tower Health is no longer part of the network as of January 1, 2024. Negotiations for a contract extension are ongoing, but Tower Health has not committed to continuing collaboration. The main point of contention is significant rate increases demanded by Tower Health, which could lead to higher healthcare costs for clients and their members. To assist affected customers, the healthcare provider assures support in finding alternative, in-network providers nearby. One Guide representatives are available 24/7 at the number on Cigna ID cards or (800) 244-6224. Online tools on myCigna.com and the myCigna mobile app help locate in-network hospitals and providers. Members have been proactively notified… Read More

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Ambetter Health Members: Ensure Coverage for January 2024!

As we approach the end of the year, we want to remind you of a crucial deadline to ensure uninterrupted coverage for the upcoming year. Payment Deadline: December 31, 2023: Ambetter Health members must make their January premium payment by December 31, 2023, to guarantee seamless coverage for the start of 2024. To make this process quick and convenient, we recommend using Quick Pay option for a fast, one-time payment. For Assistance: If you have any questions or require assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dedicated Ambetter Health Account Executive. You can contact them at 1-855-700-7985, selecting option 3. Alternatively, you can email ambettersales@centene.com. Ensuring your premium payment is processed… Read More

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Decisions for someone who is nearing age 65

As you near age 65, you need to learn about Medicare coverage choices and make several important enrollment decisions. This fact sheet will give you a list of the steps you shouldtake and tell you about resources to help you make your Medicare enrollment decisions. There can be penalties if you do not enroll on time, so it is best to complete these tasksat least 3 months BEFORE you turn 65. Please note you can enroll on Medicare Parts A & B with Medicare about 90 days before your 65th birthday. IF YOU ARE STILL WORKING and your company has less than 20 employees you still MUST enroll on Medicare… Read More

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Medicaid Redetermination Updates: Your Next Steps

The COVID-19 emergency has reshaped our lives in numerous ways since its onset in 2020. As we emerge from this challenging period, it’s crucial to stay informed about the changing landscape of healthcare programs, specifically Medicaid and CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program). The government is resuming its yearly process of Medicaid Redetermination to ensure that those who need these programs the most can continue to benefit from them. What is Medicaid Redetermination? Medicaid Redetermination is the process by which the government verifies the eligibility of individuals enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP. This procedure is vital to keep Medicaid strong and functional while ensuring that resources are allocated to those who… Read More

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How should employers distribute Medical Loss Ratio (MLR) Rebate Checks?

Recently a number of clients have received notices and/or checks for their organization’s Medical Loss Ratio, or MLR rebates. Below is some helpful information for understanding how these rebates can be used or distributed. According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Technical Release No. 2011-04, the employer’s responsibility for distributing the rebate to participants is dependent on who paid for the insurance coverage. If the employer paid the entire cost of the insurance coverage, then no part of the rebate would be attributable to participant contributions. However, if participants paid the entire cost of the insurance coverage, then the entire amount of the rebate would be attributable to participant contributions and… Read More

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Medicaid & CHIP Enrollment Extension!

In a recent development, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Departments of Labor (DOL) and the Treasury have issued a letter urging employers, plan sponsors, and carriers to consider extending the enrollment period for employer-sponsored health plans. This extension is aimed at helping individuals who have lost their Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage due to the resumption of normal eligibility and enrollment procedures. Traditionally, Medicaid coverage requires annual renewal of eligibility. However, during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, these renewal requirements were temporarily halted to prevent members from losing their coverage. Unfortunately, this pause in eligibility rules came to an end on March… Read More

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What is your Medicare Part D ANOC?

The Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) is a document that Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans are required to send to their members every year. The ANOC outlines any changes in coverage, costs, and more that will be effective in January 1. If you’re enrolled in a Medicare plan, your plan will send you an ANOC each fall. The ANOC includes information about any changes to your plan’s coverage, costs, and service area that will be effective in January 1. It’s important to review the ANOC carefully to understand how your plan’s coverage and costs may change in the upcoming year. If you have any questions or concerns about the changes, you can contact… Read More

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MLR Rebate Checks Unveiled: A Must-Read for Employers

Every year, insurance carriers are required to meet specific Medical Loss Ratio (MLR) thresholds, ensuring that a significant portion of collected premiums goes toward medical care and improving healthcare quality. For the large group market, this threshold stands at 85 cents for every premium dollar collected, while in the small group market, it’s 80 cents. If these thresholds are not met, employers are in for a timely financial boost, in the form of premium credits or checks. MLR Rebate Deadline: September 30, 2023 The clock is ticking. If your insurance carrier falls short of the MLR threshold, they are obligated to distribute MLR checks to employers by September 30, 2023.… Read More

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Understanding the Updates to the Davis Bacon and Related Acts

On August 8, 2023, the Department of Labor (DOL) made a significant announcement that will have a substantial impact on federal construction contracts and projects receiving federal assistance. The long-awaited final rule related to the Davis Bacon and Related Acts (DBRA) was released, ushering in a series of comprehensive updates and changes. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the key points of this final rule, with a focus on how it affects fringe benefit administration. The Davis Bacon and Related Acts (DBRA): A Quick Overview The DBRA, which has been in place for decades, is a set of labor laws that pertain to contracts issued by the federal government… Read More

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Medicare Part D Notification Requirements

Employers sponsoring a group health plan with prescription drug benefits are required to notify their Medicare-eligible participants and beneficiaries as to whether the drug coverage provided under the plan is “creditable” or “non-creditable.” This notification must be provided prior to October 15th each year. Also, following the plan’s annual renewal, the employer must notify the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (“CMS”) of the creditable status of the drug plan. This information summarizes these requirements in more detail. What are the Notification Requirements About? Medicare Part D, the Medicare prescription drug program, generally imposes a lifetime penalty for late enrollment if an individual delays enrolling in Part D after initial eligibility… Read More

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Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program: PDF Download

Medicare covers a health behavior change program to help you prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. The program includes 22 group sessions with a behavior coach who works with you to make lasting diet and exercise changes. You’ll also get support to keep you motivated. For a comprehensive understanding of Medicare prevention programs, download this informative PDF today! As always if you have any questions or concerns about this bulleting please contact your Medicare health insurance experts at Total Benefit Solutions, Inc (215)-355-2121

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A Voluntary Benefits Strategy

The Issue One of our clients approached us during a pre-renewal meeting to ask how they can further control costs without drastically impacting the well-being of their employees…click here to continue

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Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program

If you have been diagnosed with prediabetes, it’s essential to take proactive steps to manage your condition and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The good news is that there are programs available designed specifically to assist individuals like you in preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes. These programs often encompass a comprehensive approach that includes education, lifestyle modifications, and support systems tailored to your specific needs. Let us help, don’t miss this opportunity to take control of your health and potentially prevent the development of type 2 diabetes. Download this PDF for more information! As always if you have any questions or concerns about… Read More

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Medicare Coverage of Diabetes Supplies, Services, & Prevention Programs: Booklet

This booklet explains Medicare coverage of diabetes supplies and services in Original Medicare and with Medicare drug coverage (Part D). Original Medicare is fee-for-service coverage. The government usually pays your health care providers directly for your Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and/or Part B (Medical Insurance) benefits. If you have other insurance that supplements Original Medicare, like a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy, it may pay some of the costs for some.services described in this booklet. For a comprehensive understanding of Medicare coverage for diabetes supplies and services, download this informative booklet today! As always if you have any questions or concerns about this bulleting please contact your Medicare health… Read More

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HOW PEOS ARE HELPING SMBS MEET MARKET DISRUPTORS HEAD ON

The modern world is driven by convenience and customization, SMBs included. Digitization, remote-friendly roles, and a generational shift in the workforce all impact today’s employee experience. When this experience is lacking, it can be costly to companies in more ways than one.    click here to read the story from PEO insider Total Benefit Solutions Inc is dedicated to providing a comprehensive selection of solutions for the small business owner including the comparison of PEO’s to the typical employee benefits experience. Contact us today at (215)355-2121 to inquire about the possibility of using a PEO for your organization.

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Independence Blue Cross aims to get more Black patients screened for colorectal cancer

The COVID-19 pandemic drove a significant reduction in the number of Black patients who were getting screened for colorectal cancer, and Independence Blue Cross is aiming to change that in its home turf of Philadelphia… https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/philly-blues-program-aims-get-more-blacks-screened-colorectal-cancer

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