January 10, 2013 at 4:15 PM
Each year Jazz Aviation and the CAW meet to discuss the rates that we –
members – all pay for our medical benefits. The company has posted our rates for
2013. From a year over year standpoint the increases are modest with the main
increase coming from our extended health care. It was indicated by the company
that 18% of all our prescription drug claims are still being reimbursed using
the old method (without the card) and therefore would not be eligible for any
savings that the drug card would offer. Those members who are not using the
cards are also likely to be out of pocket due to the fact that Great West Life
will only reimburse the amount that would have been paid if the card was used.
In general, we have increased utilization of our plan overall. Approximately 25%
of claimants accounted for 73% of the EHC (extended health care) claims costs
and this is only going to increase as our workforce continues to age. Another
area that led to the increase was the increases in the paramedical – mainly
massage (21.2%), physiotherapy 21.8%) & osteopath (43.1%). There was a 22.6%
increase in psychologist visits as well.
While we are still getting used to the new drug cards, some of the ongoing
problems with the card to be aware of include not understanding the Great West
Life summary receipt and individual dealings with pharmacies that are not
compliant or are out of date with the GWL contract. When looking at the summary
receipt, it is commonly noticed that the submitted expense does not match the
paid amount. This difference does not necessarily mean that your claim has not
been covered. It is important to verify that the amount that was reimbursed
matches the amount that was paid. Should you run into problems with your claim
or have other questions/concerns regarding these types of issues, please do not
hesitate to contact me. Also if you are interested in viewing the report that
was presented to the CAW, a copy can be provided upon request.
As your benefits rep I am available to answer questions or to offer guidance
through all forms of sick leave. Frequently I have been involved with employees
requiring EAP (employee assistance program) as well as offering assistance to
those who require help with temporary/permanent accommodations, graduated return
to works, and claim denials. The company has agreed to include a copy of my
contact information when medical packages are sent to the employees who are
entering a medical stream. Should you not receive a copy, or require contacting
for other reasons, please get a hold of your District Chairperson and have them
provide you my contact information or have them contact me on your behalf and I
will gladly contact you as soon as possible.
Jonathan Cristo
CAW Local 2002
Jazz Tech Benefits Representative