Benefit changes coming Jan. 1 for UAW Retiree Medical Benefits Trust members

There are several benefit changes that the UAW Retiree Medical Benefits Trust requested Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan make for its members starting Jan. 1, 2022. These include:

• Lower in-network deductible and out-of-pocket maximums for Enhanced Care Plan, or ECP, and Traditional Care Network, or TCN, members.
• For ECP members:
• In-network primary care office visit copay will be $10.
• Copays for in-network specialist visits will be $20. 
• For TCN members, acupuncture (for lower back pain only) will be an allowable service secondary to Medicare and subject to the appropriate cost share.
• For both ECP and TCN members:
• In-network allergy testing and ear wax removal are covered services, subject to the appropriate cost share.
• In-network chiropractic manipulations for subluxation of the spine are covered with a $20 copay (24 visit maximum).

There have also been changes for Medicare Plus Blue℠ members:

• Lower in-network deductible and out-of-pocket maximums.
• In-network primary care office visit copays will be $10.
• Copays for in-network specialist visits will be $20.
• Copay for in-network acupuncture will be $20 (20 visit limit).
• In-network outpatient rehabilitation services, outpatient mental health and substance use disorder, compression stockings and diabetic eye exams are covered at 100%.
• Skilled nursing facility is covered at 100% for days 1 through 50 and a $20 copay per day for days 51 through 100 in-network.
• Diabetic shoes have an enhanced benefit of two pairs per year.
• Wigs are covered at 100% up to a $250 annual maximum.

This benefit information will be updated on web-DENIS, so be sure to check there for member benefit and eligibility information.