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When will my health and other insurance coverage end?
If notified of layoff now, your health and dental insurance coverages remain in effect through August 31, 2011. You and your family should make full use of your coverage during July and August.
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Is there a way to maintain coverage?
Yes. But the monthly premium costs are more than most members can afford.
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What are the monthly health insurance premium rates?
To continue coverage starting September 1, 2011, a laid-off employee would pay:
PPO HMO
Single $920.99 $557.49
Family $2,035.78 $1,463.32
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What are the more affordable health care options?
Your options depend on your individual situation. Overall, the alternatives are:
- Coverage under your spouse's insurance
- Coverage under your parents' insurance
- Purchasing more affordable insurance on your own
- BadgerCare
- Free clinics
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How do I get covered by my spouse's plan?
By law, losing your job is a "qualifying event" which makes you eligible for coverage under your spouse's plan. Unless you're already covered, your spouse must apply to add coverage for you.
If needed, a copy of your MPS layoff notice provides proof of the qualifying event. You will need to take care of the details - so your coverage starts on September 1, 2011. It's likely your spouse will need to pay more out-of-pocket to add you (and your children).
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What are the eligibility requirements for coverage under my parents' plan?
You must be single and under age 27. If you qualify, your parents need to enroll you by their employer's deadline, usually 31 days.
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What about purchasing health insurance on my own?
There are just a few affordable plans available in today's market. WPS is one of the companies we've found offering affordable coverage (single or family). We don't endorse the WPS plans but suggest you consider them when you shop for coverage.
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How may I find out about BadgerCare?
Go to the BadgerCare pages on the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website. You'll see details on eligibility, enrolling, the benefits, your out-of-pockect costs, etc. You may also call 1-800-362-3002.
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What about free clinics?
Our union's staff is compiling a list of area clinics with hours, locations, etc. We'll distribute it at our information/support meetings. (We'll also post a comprehensive directory at mtea.org in late July or early August.)