Open enrollment deadline change

The deadline for open enrollment, the one time all year when MRA health insurance participants can make changes in coverage and add employees and dependents, has been extended to June 30, with changes becoming effective on July 1.

Note that the date on the insert included in this issue does not reflect the recently extended deadline.

Since new group rates go into effect on July 1, many groups also make changes to their group health insurance plan at this time, although such changes can be made at any time. Group-wide changes become effective after a 45-day processing period required by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.

Although the average rate increase is in the double digits again, some groups are seeing smaller rate increases than last year. According to MRA’s John Mayleben, vice president of sales and marketing, the effects of the recent small-market reform legislation are beginning to be felt, although most of the benefits will come in the next few years.

“In determining a group’s rates for this year, one of the things that Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan took into consideration was whether or not the group responded to the Rate Renewal Certification form. Those that responded still saw an increase in rates, but not as high as those who didn’t respond or who were found to be not in compliance,” said Ally Nemetz, MRA customer data manager.

Susan Stroup, MRA customer service manager, said members can call to explore cost-saving changes in coverage. However, Blue Cross doesn’t permit members who participate in a grandfathered plan to make changes in coverage unless they move to a current health plan.

Dental subscribers, fortunately, will see little or no increase in their rates this year.

The May-June period is also open enrollment for MRA’s self-funded dental insurance program, administered by Delta Dental Plan of Michigan. A second dental open enrollment period is held in November-December. Current dental participants can add employees or dependents during these periods or switch between MRA’s two coverage options.

The two dental plans are open to businesses with two or more people participating.

To join any of MRA’s insurance programs, add employees and dependents or adjust coverage during open enrollment, call MRA Customer Service at 800.366.3699 or e-mail MRA’s Susan Stroup at sstroup@retailers.com.