During the Open Enrollment period as a retiree, you have the opportunity to evaluate your insurance needs and make changes in your benefits for the following plan year. The 2023 Benefits Open Enrollment period will be October 20, 2022, through November 3, 2022.
Check out the OE guide for more information such as:
What’s happening During the Benefits Open Enrollment?
Recording of 2022 Educational Session:
Who is Amwins?
Amwins is the company that handles eligibility and billing for the university retiree plans. Once an eligible employee reaches retirement, they will set up payment with Amwins.
What if I need to change my payment information?
Please update the Direct Payment Authorization Form and send to Amwins.
Who is United Healthcare?
United Healthcare is the company that provides the University's retirement health plans. The University offers a Medicare Advantage plan to eligible retirees.
Can my spouse stay on the insurance if I decline?
No, currently the retiree must be enrolled in either the Anthem Retiree plan for those that are not Medicare eligible or the United Healthcare Medicare Advantage plan for the spouse to have coverage.
Can my Spouse be on a different Medicare Advantage plan than me?
The Medicare Advantage plans are single plans, but a retirees spouse's coverage is based on the retirees coverage, so if the retiree is on the Core plan then the spouse has to be on the Core plan.
I will turn 65 soon, what do I need to do?
As your 65th birthday approaches, you will receive a enrollment packet from Amwins. Once you receive it, you will need to elect the plan you want. You will also need to make sure you enroll in Medicare A and B in order to enroll in the University's Medicare Advantage plan.
Can I keep Anthem?
If an eligible employee is not yet eligible for Medicare then they will remain on the Anthem Health Plan until they are eligible. Once they are eligible they will automatically switch to the Medicare Advantage Plan.
How can I lower my Prescription cost?
Prescriptions costs can be high, but there are ways to save. Retirees can contact United Healthcare to ensure they are using the Preferred Pharmacy Network and consider using the Home Delivery 90 day supply for maintenance drugs. In addition retirees can check on the best places to get prescriptions by visiting the following price comparison websites.
GoodRx - Compare prices and get coupons for prescriptions. Good Rx coupons can be used instead of insurance. The pharmacy can tell you which is the better deal. Click on the link for more information.
BlinkHealth - Compare prices and get coupons for prescriptions. Blink Health coupons can be used instead of insurance. The pharmacy can tell you which is the better deal. Click on the link for more information.
Extra Help - Medicare beneficiaries can qualify for Extra Help paying for their monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and co-payments related to Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage). You can apply online or call 800-772-1213.
Who is the dental provider?
Paramount Dental (formerly HRI) is the current dental provider for the University. There is typically not a card issued at retirement.
What about Vision?
Vision is not offered as a retirement benefit but can be extended by 18 months through COBRA once you retire.
Have questions?
Email us at benefits@usi.edu!
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