Chair Talk
May 2017
OPTUM Rx
During the month of April, many retirees received a letter from Optum Rx informing them that because of their prescription history Optum has determined that they are eligible to participate in their Medication Therapy Management (MTM) program offered through the State Health Plan PPO Medicare PDP. This program involves a Pharmacist contacting you for a brief medication consultation. The Pharmacist will review your current medications with you, discuss the goals of the medications, receiving the safest and most effective medications, let you know about cost effective alternatives (generics) and answer any questions you may have. Another goal is to reduce the risk of side effects and interactions. The Pharmacist will provide you with a medication review package that you can share with your Doctor. The MTM program is voluntary and you can call 1-866-352-5305 to opt out.
AUTO ACCIDENTS AND MEDICAL COVERAGE
A question was asked at the Lapeer Chapter meeting about what medical plan pays for medical care (Medicare and non-Medicare) needed due to injuries occurring from an auto accident. I contacted Arva Overton and she referred me to Medicare Publication 02179 (revised July 2016) pages 17 – 19. Basically, coverage is as follows:
Non-Medicare Retirees:
The State Health Plan is primary for medical for auto related accidents.Medicare Retirees:
No-Fault insurance is Primary, Medicare is secondary and the State Health Plan is tertiary.
Medicare retirees should review their auto policies to make sure they have medical coverage listed on their policies.
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.