#aca – Page 4 – Total Benefit Solutions Inc

Independence: New drugs added to precertification list for 2023

January 25, 2023January 25, 2023Ed MacConnell

Effective January 1, 2023, from Independence Blue Cross: (Independence) IBC will add 12 drugs to the list of specialty drugs that require precertification under the medical benefit. With these additions, Independence now requires precertification for a total of 271 drugs before members can receive coverage for them. The drugs being added include several gene replacement therapies and cancer/antineoplastic agents in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) pipeline, as well as several biosimilars that recently received FDA approval. The newly added drugs are: beremagene geperpavec* – gene replacement/gene editing therapiesCimerliTM (ranibizumab‑eqrn) – ophthalmic agentsElahereTM (mirvetuximab soravtansine) – antineoplastic agentsFylnetra® (pegfilgrastim‑pbbk)† – neutropeniaHemgenix® (etranacogene dezaparvovec) – gene replacement/gene editing therapies mosunetuzumab* – antineoplastic agents Skysona® (elivaldogene autotemcel) – gene replacement/gene editing therapiesStimufend® (pegfilgrastim‑fpgk)† – neutropeniatofersen* – amyotrophic lateral sclerosis agents tremelimumab* – antineoplastic agentsVegzelma® (bevacizumab‑adcd)† – antineoplastic agentsZynteglo® (betibeglogene autotemcel) – gene replacement/gene editing therapies We often add drugs… Read More

What is a drug formulary?

January 14, 2023January 14, 2023Ed MacConnell

The drug formulary is a list of medications that have been selected by an insurance company for their medical effectiveness, positive results, and value. The formulary includes generic medications and a defined list of brand medications. Sometimes it includes specialty mediations. Most formularies will have exclusions, or drugs not covered by your plan. You maximize your benefits when you purchase formulary medications. Your health insurance specialists at Total Benefit Solutions, In. can help you understand your plan’s formulary and how to find or search that list. Contact us today at (215)355-2121 if you have questions about your health insurance plan’s drug coverage.

Blue KC: 2023 member guides and handbooks now available

January 11, 2023January 9, 2023Ed MacConnell

The 2023 commercial and ACA member guides and Medicare Advantage member handbook are now available. Clients will receive these documents through a variety of touchpoints. Please keep them handy as a quick reference to Blue KC plan benefits and features and to share them with clients as needed. Employer/Group Medicare Advantage ACA Individual and Family Plans Have any questions regarding this notice? Don’t hesitate to contact your Total Benefit Solutions health insurance specialists today at (215)355-2121.

Final Rule on ACA Reporting and 2022 Forms and Instructions

January 10, 2023January 3, 2023Ed MacConnell

On December 12, 2022, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) released final regulations with respect the ACA reporting requirements. These rules are substantially similar to the proposed rule issues in November last year. The final rule: Applicable large employers (“ALEs”) have until March 2, 2023 (rather than January 31, 2023) to furnish Forms 1095-C for calendar year 2022 to full-time employees and other individuals. The final rule does not extend the deadline to file completed Forms 1094-C and 1095-C (and Forms 1094-B and 1095-B) with the IRS. The due date remains March 31, 2023 (or February 28, 2023 for paper filing if filing fewer than 250 forms). On December 15, 2022,… Read More

How ACA Marketplace Premiums are Changing by County in 2023

January 5, 2023January 3, 2023Ed MacConnell

Premiums for ACA Marketplace benchmark silver plans are increasing on average across the U.S. in 2023 after four years of slight declines. However, premiums changes vary by location and by metal level, with premiums decreasing in some cases. As most enrollees receive significant premium subsidies on the ACA Marketplaces, the net premium amount an exchange enrollee pays depends on their income and the difference in the cost between the benchmark plan (second-lowest-cost silver plan) and the premium for the plan they choose. The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) increased and expanded subsidies temporarily in 2021 and 2022 and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) extends those enhanced and expanded subsidies through… Read More

Total Benefit Solutions Inc., In The News!

January 5, 2023January 5, 2023Ed MacConnell

Ed MacConnell, who runs employee benefits firm Total Solutions, Inc. in Feasterville, believes that the emergency payment feature could potentially be used for unforeseen medical expenses

Prescription drug list updates effective January 1, 2023

December 28, 2022December 27, 2022Ed MacConnell

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC) Medical and Pharmacy Management Committee has reviewed the Prescription Drug Lists (PDLs) and other pharmacy programs for drug safety, effectiveness, clinical outcomes, and cost. As a result, ACA small employer groups, non-ACA small employer groups (including level funded ASO) large employer groups, and ACA individual and family plan members will see the following formulary updates, effective January 1, 2023. Click here to read for more information. As always, please contact your Total Benefit Solutions health insurance specialists today with any questions at (215)355-2121.

Oscar no longer accepting new members in Florida

December 12, 2022December 12, 2022Ed MacConnell

Today, Oscar announced that it is no longer accepting new membership in the state of Florida, beginning December 13 at midnight. We’re committed to building a great business that continues to provide innovative, affordable coverage for many years to come. To do that, we need to grow responsibly so that we can ensure our members receive the same level of care and service that we hold ourselves accountable for providing

What is HIPP and can it help my company or our employees?

November 23, 2022November 23, 2022Ed MacConnell

Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program The Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program is a program developed to help Pennsylvania families, who have at least one person enrolled in Medical Assistance (MA), pay for private health insurance through an employer. HIPP is administered by Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services (DHS). It was designed as a cost containment program in order to save taxpayers money by purchasing cost effective employment related health insurance available to a Medical Assistance recipient. Read more by clicking here As always if you have any additional questions please contact your group health insurance specialist at Total Benefit Solutions , Inc (215)355-2121.

Blue KC: Enhanced ACA Subsidies to Extend Through 2025

November 17, 2022October 20, 2022Ed MacConnell

The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 has provided enhanced ACA premium subsidies for people who purchased a plan through the Marketplace. It did so by removing the income cap, which limited subsidies to households with incomes from 100% to 400% of the federal poverty line. With no income cap, premiums have been limited to just 8.5% of income – for everyone. The Inflation Reduction Act, which was signed into law on August 16, extends these subsidies for three years for millions of Americans who buy individual coverage under the ACA. This bill will “save millions of people an average of $800 a year on health insurance premiums,” said Chiquita… Read More

What is the total cost estimate for health coverage?

November 15, 2022September 29, 2022Ed MacConnell

The total amount you may have to pay for health plan coverage, which is estimated before you actually have the coverage and have health expenses under the coverage. Generally, your total cost is your premium + deductible + out-of-pocket costs + any copayments/coinsurance. When you preview plans at Healthcare.gov, you’ll see an estimate of your total costs, but your actual expenses will likely vary. Have any questions regarding this notice? Please contact your Total Benefit Solutions health insurance specialists at (215)355-2121.

What is a Qualified Health Plan?

November 10, 2022September 23, 2022Ed MacConnell

An insurance plan that’s certified by the Health Insurance Marketplace®, provides essential health benefits, follows established limits on cost-sharing (like deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximum amounts), and meets other requirements under the Affordable Care Act. All qualified health plans meet the Affordable Care Act requirement for having health coverage, known as “minimum essential coverage.” As always, please contact your Total Benefit Solutions health insurance specialists today at (215)355-2121.

Pennie’s Open Enrollment Period for 2023 Coverage is Around the Corner

October 26, 2022Ed MacConnell

Pennie’s Open Enrollment Period for 2023 Coverage is Around the Corner: Pennie’s Open Enrollment Period will run from November 1, 2022, to January 15, 2023. As a reminder, existing Pennie customers will be receiving auto-renewal notices this week with information on their 2023 plans. Great news! Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, enhanced savings continue to be available for Pennie customers and those enrolling in coverage through Pennie! As always if you have any questions or concerns please contact your Pennie health insurance experts at Total Benefit Solutions Inc (215)355-2121

CIGNA Supplemental Benefits Now Available Online

October 26, 2022October 25, 2022Ed MacConnell

CIGNA’s Medicare supplements and dental/vision plans are available to quote and enroll online for your convenience! Just click the link below to get your quotes and as always contact your Total Benefit Solutions, Inc health insurance specialists at (215)355-2121 if you have any questions or concerns! Click here

What is the Marketplace?

October 19, 2022September 21, 2022Ed MacConnell

Shorthand for the “Health Insurance Marketplace®,” a shopping and enrollment service for medical insurance created by the Affordable Care Act in 2010. In most states, the federal government runs the Marketplace (sometimes know as the “exchange”) for individuals and families. On the web, it’s found at HealthCare.gov. Some states run their own Marketplace at different websites. Fill out a Marketplace application and you’ll find out if you qualify for lower monthly premiums or savings on out-of-pocket costs based on your income. You may find out if you qualify for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). You can shop for and enroll in affordable medical insurance online, by phone,… Read More

Independence: What are Preventative Plus Providers?

October 17, 2022Ed MacConnell

Preventive Plus Preventive Plus providers are participating freestanding ambulatory surgical centers (ASC) and a select group of gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons who perform preventative colonoscopy for colorectal cancer screenings at a freestanding ASC. For certain plans, the Member’s cost-share for this service will be $0 when performed by Preventive Plus providers. Please refer to your benefits booklet or contract to determine if your plan includes the Preventive Plus benefit. For updated or more detailed information regarding Preventive Plus providers, visit our website at ibx.com/provider finder, or call Customer Service at 1-800-ASK-BLUE (1-800-275-2583), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET For further questions or concerns please contact your Total… Read More

Did you know about Humana’s Neighborhood Centers?

October 16, 2022October 12, 2022Ed MacConnell

Humana Neighborhood Centers give participants a safe, friendly place to enjoy personalized health and wellness programming, connect with peers and get compassionate customer service from our world-class support team. Whether they’re visiting one of our in-person centers or taking part in our virtual offerings, members can always expect a warm, welcoming experience that provides whole human care. Watch the video below and contact your Total Benefit Solutions, Inc health insurance and supplememnt specialists for more information at (215)355-2121. Click here for more about Humana Neighborhood Centers

Total Benefit Solutions, Inc appoints with Lasso Medicare Medical Savings Accounts Plans for 2022-2023 Open Enrollment Season

October 11, 2022Ed MacConnell

What is a Medicare Medical Savings Account (MSA) Plan? – A Medicare Medical Savings Account (MSA) plan is a type of Medicare Advantage plan that combines a high-deductible health plan with a medical savings account. Enrollees of Medicare MSA plans can initially use their savings account to help pay for health care, and then will have coverage through a high-deductible insurance plan once they reach their deductible. Medicare MSA plans can provide Medicare beneficiaries with more control over health care utilization, while still providing coverage against catastrophic health care expenses. Ask your Total Benefit Solutions, Inc. Medicare health insurance specialist of a Medicare Medical Savings Account could be worth considering… Read More

National General/Allstate Welcome Packet

October 10, 2022October 10, 2022Ed MacConnell

Considering Level funding and/or reference based pricing for your group health insurance? Download the brochure below to learn more about it them contact your health insurance specialists at Total Benefit Solutions, Inc today to compare your current plan to level funded and reference based pricing options! The brochure includes information on reading an EOB, Vitality and the healthcare blue book as well. As always we can be reached at (215)355-2121.

Health Insurance Shopping Is Confusing!

October 10, 2022August 22, 2022Ed MacConnell

The professionals at Total Benefit Solutions, Inc are here to help you find the right coverage for you or your small business! our health insurance experts Are certified, licensed and experienced to help you deal with ACA plans (Obamacare), Medicare supplements, short term medical and small group health plans too! Call us today at (215)355-2121.

A new group health insurance offering for small businesses. Introducing CIGNA + Oscar

September 29, 2022September 29, 2022Ed MacConnell

We’ve partnered with Cigna + Oscar to deliver small business health insurance that brings together Cigna’s most popular provider networks and Oscar’s tech-driven approach to customer service and care navigation. Cigna + Oscar plans are available in the Philadelphia 5 county area beginning with effective dates starting January 1 2023. Your Total Benefit Solutions, Inc health insurance specialists are available to help you quote and compare plans. Call us today to get your quote and compare these newest plans to your current renewal. You might be surprised at the competitive cost and plan designs! (215)355-2121

Final Rules Adopt Administrative Changes to the No Surprises Act

September 26, 2022September 22, 2022Ed MacConnell

On August 26, 2022, the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and the Treasury (together, the “Departments”) published final rules on the No Surprises Act, making changes to the administrative duties of insurance carriers, HMOs, third-party administrators, out-of-network healthcare providers, and certain other entities responsible for the Act’s implementation. The new rules, which take effect on October 25, 2022, are narrow in scope, and include the following changes:• During processing of claims under the No Surprises Act, if “down-coding” occurs (i.e., the group medical plan alters or replaces the medical billing codes chosen by the out-of-network healthcare provider, resulting in a lower claim payment), then the final rules impose… Read More

Turning 26: Your Guide to Health Insurance

September 23, 2022Ed MacConnell

Turning 26: Your Guide to Getting Your New Health Insurance:https://totalbenefits.net/turning-26-your-guide-to-health-insurance/

2022 MLR Rebate Checks to Be Issued Soon to Fully Insured Plans

September 23, 2022September 22, 2022Ed MacConnell

As a reminder, insurance carriers are required to satisfy certain medical loss ratio (“MLR”) thresholds. This generally means that for every dollar of premium a carrier collects with respect to a major medical plan; it should spend 85 cents in the large group market (80 cents in the small group market) on medical care and activities to improve health care quality. If these thresholds are not satisfied, rebates are available to employers in the form of a premium credit or check. If a rebate is available, carriers are required to distribute MLR checks to employers by September 30, 2022. Click the link below to download the full bulletin.

Understanding the Health Care Provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act

September 19, 2022August 16, 2022Ed MacConnell

The Inflation Reduction Act includes several landmark health care provisions that would lower prescription drug costs for people with Medicare, reduce Medicare drug spending and extend enhanced subsidies for Affordable Care Act marketplace coverage. On Thursday, August 11, a panel of KFF experts held a web briefing to explain these provisions and how they would affect people and federal health spending, followed by a Question and Answer session. Click here to open article and view Web Event video. The legislation for the first time would require the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services to negotiate directly with drug manufacturers over the price of some high-cost drugs in the Medicare… Read More

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