News Archive
All News
| Title | Issued Date |
|---|---|
Overview Of The Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA), 2021The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, contains multiple provisions that will affect group health plans and the health care system, overall. The timeline to implement these provisions is an aggressive one with many effective dates of January 1, 2022. Mental Health... |
April 30, 2021 |
May Is Mental Health Awareness MonthEach year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. Now—more than a year into a global pandemic—isolation, anxiety, and loneliness have made a difficult time more challenging for many people. Learn more about how to fight the stigma of mental... |
April 30, 2021 |
Changes To Member ID Cards Coming In AprilIn December, the NYS Department of Financial Services (DFS) issued new minimum standards for the content on health insurance identification cards. Changes apply to MEDICAL and MEDICAL/PHARMACY IDENTIFICATION CARDS ONLY (changes will not apply to dental only and pharmacy... |
March 31, 2021 |
MDLIVE PartnershipUnivera Healthcare partners with MDLIVE for its telemedicine services. We are aware that Evernorth has entered into an agreement to acquire MDLIVE and is expected to complete the acquisition in second quarter 2021. At this time, Univera Healthcare plans to... |
March 31, 2021 |
Tools To Help Members Make The Most Of Their Health PlanIt’s easier than ever for your employees to navigate and use their high deductible health plans (HDHP). Did you know? Groups and employees new to HDHP take time to transition, and satisfaction is often lower the first year. An online member account, paired with a health... |
March 31, 2021 |
We’re Here To Help You Navigate The Individual MarketThe Open Enrollment Period for uninsured individuals has been extended to May 15, for qualified health plans or stand-alone dental. In addition, we continue to be here to support you and help with the many questions you may have about free or low-cost health insurance... |
February 26, 2021 |
Small Group Dental Changes To Minimum Enrollment Requirements For Orthodontic CoverageAny New Dental groups looking to obtain dental coverage that includes Class IV Ortho coverage will only be required to have 5 enrolled as opposed to the 10 previously required. Additionally, any Existing Dental groups that are looking to align their Medical and Dental... |
February 26, 2021 |
Call Out COVID-19 Vaccine Fraud With NYS HotlineNew York State has established a hotline that anyone can call to report suspected COVID-19 vaccine-related fraud or scams. Remember, it’s a red flag if anyone is promising individuals the vaccine in exchange for payment. To make a report, please direct individuals to... |
February 26, 2021 |
March Is Colorectal Cancer Awareness MonthDid you know one in 20 people develops colon cancer in their lifetime? The good news is Colon Cancer can often be prevented through regular screenings and screening is recommended for adults ages 50-75. Learn more by downloading and sharing this poster. Poster - Facts... |
February 26, 2021 |
Your Employees Have Questions; We Have AnswersCOVID-19 has dominated every aspect of our lives for nearly a year. While the approval—and pending approval—of new vaccines offers hope, they also raise many questions. Is a vaccine that was created so quickly actually safe? Can I stop wearing a mask if I receive the... |
February 17, 2021 |
COVID-19 Vaccine CoverageBy mid-2021, it is believed that FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines will be available to the general public. Once available, under state and federal mandate, vaccines will be provided at no cost* to our members during the public health emergency. Key facts about COVID-19... |
January 28, 2021 |
Relief Provided For Flexible Spending Account Plans In Stimulus BillOn December 27, 2020, the President signed the Consolidated Appropriations Act for 2021. This new law provides relief options related to Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). Employers can choose to adopt any of these provisions or to keep their plan the same. Optional... |
January 28, 2021 |
Tax Form 1095-BHealth insurers—including Univera Healthcare—are no longer mailing tax form 1095-B to members. Because taxpayers are not required to include the form when filing their taxes, the IRS no longer requires us to mail the form. Members can still download the form or request it... |
January 28, 2021 |
An Unusual Year But Our Health Plan Was PreparedPlanning for risk is what we do, and when Governor Andrew Cuomo declared a State of Emergency in March due to COVID-19, we were ready. Through it all, we’ve remained focused on our mission: “To help people in our communities live healthier and more secure lives through... |
January 28, 2021 |
Revised Guidelines For ExerciseRewardsUnivera Healthcare members can now earn ExerciseRewards for at-home workouts through the end of 2021. We are waiving our standard guidelines for this program due to continued gym closures, mask mandates, and other requirements, as a result of the ongoing pandemic. ... |
January 28, 2021 |
Small Group Dental Rates Now Available For All QuartersNew in 2021, Small Groups can align their medical and dental plan years. Rates for all effective dates in 2021 are now available on Univera on Demand. This includes the following products: Univera Dental Select Univera Access Dental Be sure to note, a new section... |
January 28, 2021 |
Update On Pre-AuthorizationsFor fully insured employer group plan members, pre-authorization is waived beginning on December 23, 2020 through February 21, 2021 for scheduled inpatient surgeries, inpatient mental health services, hospital admissions, inpatient rehabilitation, in-network home health... |
January 28, 2021 |
2021 Large & Small Group Product Updates2020 tested the resilience of Western New York businesses and individuals alike, us included. And, in a bigger way than ever before, it brought to light the importance of supporting and protecting the health and wellbeing of every business’ greatest asset: your employees.... |
January 7, 2021 |
Our Best Wishes For A Healthy Holiday SeasonAs we come to the end of an historic year, we want you to know how truly grateful we are for your business. Entering 2021 amid a global health crisis will continue to be a challenge for everyone. Please continue to wear a mask, wash your hands and social distance, so... |
December 18, 2020 |
Updated Microsite And New COVID-19 ResourcesKeeping you informed throughout this global pandemic is one of our top priorities. Earlier this year, we launched a dedicated COVID-19 Resource Website: UniveraHealthcare.com/covid19. We are closely monitoring COVID-19 and vaccine developments and this website has... |
December 18, 2020 |
Stay Safe. Spread Joy.Though this holiday season may look different than what we’re used to, we’d like to encourage you to celebrate the things we can do. Sending cards. Keeping in touch with friends and family. Virtual gatherings. Learning to cook something new. Having a snowman contest. ... |
December 18, 2020 |
COVID-19 Related Exceptions For Univera Fit DollarsDue to Covid-19, the reimbursement criteria will be expanded to allow reimbursement for the following new items: At-home online workout subscriptions (i.e., Daily Burn, Beach Body, etc.) At-home fitness equipment (i.e., dumbbells, Peloton bikes, ellipticals, etc.) ... |
December 18, 2020 |
The Power To Quit SmokingBeginning January 1, 2021, smoking cessation support will be provided through our Wellframe app. Members have access to a comprehensive program that includes program modules, videos, and articles to support them on their journey to quit smoking. And they can access all... |
December 18, 2020 |
New Group Bill Pay Features - What You Need To KnowAs we shared in October, as a result of the feedback provided by both brokers and employer groups, we’re improving our online bill pay features and invoices, so they are easier to use. In mid-January 2021, we will launch an improved online invoice and payment feature... |
December 18, 2020 |
Medicare Advantage Recognized For QualityThe federal government’s latest quality ratings have awarded the Medicare Advantage programs from Univera Healthcare with some of the highest ratings in the state. Medicare awarded Univera with 4.5 stars out of a possible 5-star rating for its Medicare Senior Choice HMO... |
November 20, 2020 |
Resources For You And Your EmployeesGet everything you expect from a health plan for your team and resources to keep your employees healthier and happier. You can find these tool kits and resources at UniveraForBusiness.com Individual Medicare Employee Toolkit Don't Forget About the Flu Toolkit Get... |
November 20, 2020 |
Premium Payment Processor ChangeOn January 1, 2021 our premium payment processor will change from Chase Paymentech to InstaMed®, a J.P. Morgan company. Groups that have scheduled online automatic premium payments and invoice delivery preferences will continue uninterrupted. The AutoPay feature will be... |
November 20, 2020 |
Annual Rate Notices MailedGroups will receive Annual Rate Notices (ARNs) at the end of October. This includes: Small Group Products Individual Medicare Advantage, Simply Prescription and Dental prospective pooled group notices and rates will be issued and viewable in... |
October 30, 2020 |
Pharmacy Network ChangeAs of September 1, 2020, Kroger, Albertson’s and Publix pharmacies are no longer part of the Univera Healthcare network.* Express Scripts (ESI), our pharmacy benefit manager, is working hard to help reduce overall costs for members by removing higher-cost pharmacies from... |
October 30, 2020 |
Simplified AGIF Now AvailableA shorter, simpler version of both the web and paper versions of the Annual Group Information Form (AGIF) are now available. We redesigned the look and feel of the form and reduced the number of fields by over 60 percent—just in time to help simplify your open... |
October 30, 2020 |
PPE Notification to MembersThe New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) is requiring us to notify members that our participating providers cannot bill their patients for the costs related to their purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE). Providers may only collect any... |
October 30, 2020 |
New Individual Medicare Toolkit Now AvailableWith many people continuing to work past age 65, employees are turning to their employers for guidance when making important decisions about their health insurance. The right advice may save employees money by avoiding lifetime late Medicare enrollment penalties. We’re... |
October 30, 2020 |
We’re Here to Help You Navigate the Individual MarketThe Special Enrollment Period has now been extended to December 31, 2020. We continue to be here to support you and help with the many questions you may have about free or low-cost health insurance alternatives to COBRA. We have engaged with many of our Broker... |
September 29, 2020 |
Small Group Rates and Plans for 2021 now Available!Small Group plans and rates for 2021 are now available on Univera on Demand. Updated Open Enrollment tools, including At-A-Glance Brochures and Product Guides are also available. Now available: Univera Access Small Group Medical Plans NEW Univera... |
September 29, 2020 |
It’s More Important Than Ever to Get Your Flu Shot This YearBecause of COVID-19, you should do everything you can to keep yourself and your family healthy. It is recommended that everyone six months and older get a flu shot every year in the fall—especially if you or someone in your home is at high risk of serious complications... |
September 29, 2020 |
Helpful Guidelines As New York Goes Back to WorkAs more businesses, schools and other organizations continue to reopen, reminding everyone of important safety measures is more important than ever. That’s why we’ve pulled together a toolkit with resources to help you provide a safer and healthier work environment. ... |
August 27, 2020 |
Simplified AGIF Coming in SeptemberWe’ve received feedback from brokers and groups letting us know that our Annual Group Information Form (AGIF) is too long and overly complex. We listened and are pleased to let you know a shorter, simpler version of both the web and paper versions will be available by... |
August 27, 2020 |
Mini-COBRA Timeframe Extension InformationThe recent Department of Labor (DOL) regulation requiring COBRA timeframe extensions DOES NOT apply to mini-COBRA groups. COBRA regulations state that an employer qualifies as mini-COBRA if they employ fewer than 20 employees on at least 50 percent of the employer’s... |
August 27, 2020 |
2021 Large Group Product Updates2020 is testing the resilience of Western New York businesses and individuals alike, us included. And, in a bigger way than ever before, it brought to light the importance of supporting and protecting the health and wellbeing of every business’ greatest asset: your... |
July 16, 2020 |
We’re With You As You Get Ready To ReopenWe’ve been by your side as our schools, favorite restaurants and places of employment closed to slow the spread of the coronavirus. And now, we’ll be with you as our communities begin to reopen as New York State’s PAUSE initiative sets to expire by region. Ready To Reopen |
June 2, 2020 |
Special Enrollment Period Extended to June 15The Special Enrollment Period for enrolling in Qualified Health Plans has been extended through June 15, 2020. Individuals can enroll between May 16 and June 15, and their coverage will begin June 1, or July 1. Our customer care advocates can assist with any questions on... |
June 2, 2020 |
Individual & Small Group – NYS Prior Approval of Rate ChangesWe know the focus for everyone the past two months has been the coronavirus pandemic. And now, our attention is turning to efforts to reopen businesses in accordance with state and local guidelines. While all of this is happening, there are still mandates set by New York... |
June 2, 2020 |
COVID-19 Pharmacy UpdateOur pharmacy team has been closely monitoring the supply of medications that are available during the COVID-19 outbreak. We’re taking several actions to ensure our members have access to clinically appropriate medications. Providing early refill overrides.... |
April 27, 2020 |
Don’t Fall For Fraud During COVID-19 FightPlease remind your employees to be aware that there are various scams and fraudulent activities that can occur during this difficult time. As is often the case, a national and global emergency brings out people who prey upon the fears and vulnerabilities of... |
April 27, 2020 |
Telemedicine Visits Covered At No Cost To MembersA reminder for your employees; telemedicine visits are being covered at no cost to members for 90 days beginning with NYS’s State of Emergency issued on March 13, 2020. The purpose is to help alleviate the burden on provider offices, urgent care centers and hospitals as a... |
April 27, 2020 |
Small Group Extended Grace PeriodIn these uncertain times, we’re doing everything we can to fulfill our corporate mission: to provide the people in the communities we serve with access to high quality, affordable health care. One way we can help is by providing some financial relief for those small... |
April 20, 2020 |
Finding Coverage During Job LossWe’re all facing an uncertain future, but for many employer groups this is a particularly anxious time. We have resources for groups and members, including those members who may be facing job loss and the loss of their employer-sponsored health insurance. There are... |
April 15, 2020 |
Cost Relief Available With Mid-Year Plan Changes For GroupsUnivera Healthcare wants to ensure as many of our group members as possible can maintain their health insurance benefits. Through June 1, 2020, we are allowing mid-year plan changes to allow for lower cost employer and employee plans to accommodate the COVID-19 impacts on... |
April 10, 2020 |
Univera Healthcare Waives COVID-19 Cost SharingUnivera Healthcare will waive out of pocket costs for COVID-19 medical testing, diagnosis and treatment for its fully insured employer groups, individual market qualified health plans and Medicare Advantage members for the next 60 days. This waives the member’s... |
April 10, 2020 |
Can the CARES Act Help Your Business?We’re all continuing to navigate these unchartered waters while striving to find our new normal. Last week, the Federal government signed a stimulus package to help businesses with 500 or fewer employees to stay afloat as the country continues to battle the COVID-19... |
April 6, 2020 |
