UAW Retiree Medical Benefits Trust members transition to Medicare Plus Blue^SM PPO

Many of your patients who receive coverage through the UAW Retiree Medical Benefits Trust are now enrolled in Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s Medicare Plus Blue PPO, effective Jan. 1, 2018.

This change offers several advantages to members:

• No monthly contributions to the Trust required
• Free fitness club membership in the Silver Sneakers fitness program
• Lower deductibles than their previous TCN plan
• No referrals required to visit the doctor, specialist or hospital of the member’s choice

While referrals are not required for Medicare Plus Blue, members may need authorization prior to receiving certain services. As we welcome new members, we’re asking them if they have any upcoming services early in the new year that might require prior authorization. You can request an authorization any time after Jan. 1, 2018, for a service. Please review the authorization guidelines and criteria on the e-referral site.

If you’re part of the Medicare Plus Blue PPO network, these members will be able to find your practice or facility in our online provider directory.

While most of our health care providers are familiar with Medicare Plus Blue, there are some differences in benefits and care management services between the previous TCN plan and the Medicare Plus Blue plan. Click here for more information about the plan.

As always, it’s important to always ask your patients about recent changes in insurance carriers and benefits — and request a copy of their ID card — when they come to your office for services. You can check member benefits and eligibility on web-DENIS.