UUA Health Plan
Update for Summer 2008
The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) Health Plan is financially strong and stable. It is now the plan of choice for 268 congregations and Unitarian Universalist (UU) affiliated entities. We cover almost 700 employees and another 400 family members—that’s 15% growth from 2007.
One of the questions we are asked most often is, “Do I have to wait until the next open enrollment to join the UUA Health Plan?” With so many of our congregations adopting new budgets for July 1 fiscal years, we want you to know that you do NOT have to hold on until November to act.
Enrollment is open at any time for new hires, for newly added dependents, for people whose hours have increased so that they meet the 750 hours-per-year threshold, and for people who have lost coverage they had through a spouse or partner.
In addition, we allow unrestricted enrollment with no pre-existing conditions in four other common situations:
- If a congregation does not renew an existing group plan. Requires documentation of the renewal terms. Since many group insurance plans renew July 1, the UUA plan can be a valuable mid-year option.
- If benefits or rates change for an individual plan or for coverage under a spouse/partner’s plan. Requires documentation of the changes.
- At the start of a congregation’s new fiscal year, with a new or increased contribution toward health insurance. Requires documentation of fiscal year and funding increase.
- If the congregation votes to make coverage available for the first time and contribute to the cost, or votes to increase contributions. Requires documentation of the vote.
For Members
- Transitioning? Bring your benefits with you when you change congregations by using the Benefits Checklist for Transitioning Staff provided by the UUA Transitions Office.
- Contact the Health Plan Coordinator (healthplan @ uua.org) to change or update your name, address or other personal information.
- Add a dependent by using the New Dependent Enrollment form on the Enrollment Application located in the Related Content box on this page.
- Terminate coverage or remove a dependent by emailing the Health Plan Coordinator (healthplan @ uua.org). Please include the reason for termination and the date of termination in your email.
- The UUA Health Plan Summary Plan Description (SPD) (PDF) is where you can find the most comprehensive plan information.
- Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield—for information on products offered, a directory of In-Network providers, and to create your own personalized online account.
Create an online account with Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield:
- Gives you instant access to your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) documents and gives you the option to stop receiving paper copies
- Allows you to manage your account information and order replacement cards in the event yours is lost or stolen.
- Helps you make healthy choices or changes by giving you free access to a number of programs and customized resources.
Employers
Whether you're a current subscribing congregation or organization, or are looking at the UUA Health Plan for the first time, we have a great deal of information and resources to help you.
- Calculate the 2008 premium rates for your employees with the rate calculator.
- Review the highlights of the benefits available with each plan we offer.
- The Employer Subscription Agreement (PDF)—must be on file at UUA Health Plan Office and church/organization office.
- Contact the Health Plan Coordinator (healthplan @ uua.org) or Health Plan Director (hp_director @ uua.org).
For more information contact healthinsurance @ uua.org.
Last updated on Friday, August 8, 2008.
