MI-SERA

Chair Talk

May 2006

By Bob Kopasz

Within the past week retirees received a Provider Directory for Heritage Vision Plans. This directory was sent by Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan. It is important that retirees realize that this IS NOT a change in your vision benefits. Blue Cross is still the administrator of the State’s Vision Plan. You do not have to utilize the businesses in the Heritage Directory for your vision benefits. The State has given the retirees the choice to utilize these businesses to save an additional 20% on your out-of-pocket costs.

I recently utilized the Durable Medical Equipment “Support Program” administered by Blue Cross/Blue Shield. I had to purchase a blood glucose monitor, test strips and lancets. I went to the Wright & Fillipis office located in Flint with the prescription from my doctor for the tester and supplies. I was in and out of the office in less than 15 minutes with the supplies and no co-pays or deductibles. I just call an 800 number when I need more supplies and they will be shipped by Federal Express at no cost to me. I can remember just a few months ago we heard all sorts of negative stories about this program. I think we can give Tre Wilson of Blue Cross/Blue Shield a big thank you for ironing out the problems as he was made aware of issues by retirees.

I recently received a phone call from Jan Winters (Civil Service) regarding the Voluntary Benefits Program currently offered to active state employees. I had sent a letter earlier this year requesting that the State explore the possibility offering this program to retirees. The program involves various offerings (Auto, Home & Life Insurance as well as others) at reduced rates. Ms. Winters indicated that the State was pursuing this idea and had recently met with the Office of Retirement Services to inquire as to the possibility of pension deductions for the various offerings. If it is determined that pension deductions can be accomplished by ORS the State would pursue this further.

Editor’s note: Bob Kopasz is Chair of the Michigan SERA Council. He may be reached at P.O. Box 692, Mt. Morris, MI 48458; phone 810/240-8380

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May 2006 By Bob Kopasz Within the past week retirees received a Provider Directory for Heritage Vision Plans. This directory was sent by Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan. It is important that retirees realize that this IS NOT a change in your vision benefits. Blue Cross is still the administrator of the State’s Vision Plan. You do not have to utilize the businesses in the Heritage Directory for your vision benefits. The State has given the retirees the choice to utilize these businesses to save an additional 20% on your out-of-pocket costs. I recently utilized the Durable Medical Equipment “Support Program” administered by Blue Cross/Blue Shield. I had to purchase a blood glucose monitor, test strips and lancets. I went to the Wright & Fillipis office located in Flint with the prescription from my doctor for the tester and supplies. I was in and out of the office in less than 15 minutes with the supplies and no co-pays or deductibles. I just call an 800 number when I need more supplies and they will be shipped by Federal Express at no cost to me. I can remember just a few months ago we heard all sorts of negative stories about this program. I think we can give Tre Wilson of Blue Cross/Blue Shield a big thank you for ironing out the problems as he was made aware of issues by retirees. I recently received a phone call from Jan Winters (Civil Service) regarding the Voluntary Benefits Program currently offered to active state employees. I had sent a letter earlier this year requesting that the State explore the possibility offering this program to retirees. The program involves various offerings (Auto, Home & Life Insurance as well as others) at reduced rates. Ms. Winters indicated that the State was pursuing this idea and had recently met with the Office of Retirement Services to inquire as to the possibility of pension deductions for the various offerings. If it is determined that pension deductions can be accomplished by ORS the State would pursue this further. Editor’s note: Bob Kopasz is Chair of the Michigan SERA Council. He may be reached at P.O. Box 692, Mt. Morris, MI 48458; phone 810/240-8380 Return to top of page
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