TO: All Plan Participants Enrolled in COBRA or ED CODE 7000 Under the Fresno Unified School District Medical, Dental and Vision Programs
RE: Notice of New COBRA & ED CODE 7000 (AB528 Continuation Coverage) Rates Effective April 1, 2013
DATE: January 31, 2013
Recently the Fresno Unified School District’s Joint Health Management Board (JHMB) approved new COBRA and ED Code 7000 rates. These new rates (attached) will become effective April 1, 2013. In most cases, the rates will decrease on April 1, 2013 and the JHMB has approved all rates to remain at these new levels through the end of 2014.
What You Need to Do: First, take a moment to review the new rates shown on the enclosed charts. Then, once these rates become effective, please adjust your monthly COBRA or ED CODE 7000 payment to reflect the new rate(s).
Keep the District’s Benefit Department Informed of Any Changes: In order to protect you and your family’s rights, you must keep the District’s Benefit Department informed of any change in your address and the addresses of family members. Also, you must inform the District’s Benefit Department of any change in marital or Domestic Partnership status. You should also keep a copy, for your records, of any notices you send to the District’s Benefit Department.
If You Have Questions: For questions concerning your COBRA coverage, please review the District’s Official Plan Booklet under the section titled “If You Leave” available at www.JHMBHealthConnect.com. You may also contact the District’s Benefit Department at (559) 457-3520.
For More Information – COBRA: For more information about your rights under COBRA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and other laws affecting group health plans, contact the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) in your area or visit the EBSA website at www.dol.gov/ebsa. Addresses and phone numbers of Regional and District EBSA Offices are available through EBSA’s website.
For More Information – ED CODE 7000: This notice does not fully describe AB528 continuation coverage or other rights under the Plan. More information about AB528 continuation coverage and your rights can be found in the California Education Code, Section 7000-7008. You may also contact the District’s Benefit Department at (559) 457-3520.