BCBS healthcare option now to begin on September 1, 1999 as insurer requests more time to make transition smoother (11/13/98)

BCBS healthcare option now to begin on September 1, 1999
as insurer requests more time to make transition smoother

CLEVELAND – In order to ensure a smooth health insurance transition for UTU-represented employees working on six Class I railroads, Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) requested that the implementation date be changed to September 1, 1999.

BCBSM’s request was agreed to by the United Transportation Union (UTU) and the National Carriers’ Conference Committee (NCCC). BCBSM will provide healthcare benefits and central administration for up to 43,000 UTU-represented members working on the Union Pacific, CSX, Norfolk Southern, Burlington Northern Santa Fe, Kansas City Southern and Conrail.

"We want to make sure that there are no glitches for those our members who become covered under Blue Cross Blue Shield," said Charles L. Little, UTU International President. "By delaying implementation for a few months, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan will be able to more fully develop a higher quality system that will better serve our members needs."

Little added that UTU-represented employees who wish to remain with their current insurance provider are free to do so under the new UTU Plan, and United HealthCare and Aetna will continue to provide health insurance to UTU members in the respective MMCP network areas.

Beginning September 1, 1999, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan will provide both traditional comprehensive and managed healthcare insurance options nationally. The Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan Plan will also be responsible for all administrative services.

Those who select Blue Cross Blue Shield will also receive mental health and substance abuse services from Magellan Behavioral Health, the nation's largest managed behavioral healthcare company

In addition, Minnesota Mutual Life Insurance Company will provide life insurance coverage.

Merck/Medco will continue to administer the prescription drug plan.

Value Options will continue to offer mental health and substance abuse services to those who choose to continue the MMCP benefit with United HealthCare or Aetna.