OPEA

On May 11, OPEA sent a letter to the Oklahoma State and Education Group Insurance Board (OSEEGIB) that administers the HealthChoice self-funded state insurance plan expressing concern with the $50 co-pay the Board adopted for the 2010 plan year. OPEA received a response from the OSEEGIB Executive Director Frank Wilson.

Wilson indicated the Board would be looking into the feasibility of lowering the co-pay for the 2011 plan year which begins January 1.

“I’m pleased to report that the plan experienced overall lower than anticipated claim costs for the 2009 plan year,” wrote Wilson. “If these trends continue, combined with potential savings in prescription drug claims that the Board is exploring through a more efficient method of delivering maintenance medications, we hope to address member copays for the 2011 plan year. Recognizing the particular importance of preventative care to member heath the Board will also be considering a recommendation from its consulting actuary to cover annual preventive visits at no cost to members for the 2011 plan year.”

HealthChoice is a self-funded plan, operated by state employees and does not make a profit. Participant premiums are used to pay the expenses of plan members, with a small administrative cost and mandated reserves to ensure the plan stays solvent. When the plan claims experience is favorable, the Board can make a change in plan design or lower premiums.

The rates and plan design changes will be discussed at the June and July Board meetings and adopted in August. The enrollment period for the plan year takes place in October for the year that begins the following January.