For everyone lots of information, keep scrolling down! For everyone lots of information, keep scrolling down!
Click this for Benefit Phone numbers and more!
United Retiree Service Center 1-888-825-0188 (M-F 7am - 5pm Central Time) For all interested parties: For involuntary medical insurance terminations, call Kathy Perricone at 847 700 6635, at WHQ. She has been very helpful to me. The United Retired Pilots 1114 Committee is gathering data on this problem. If you would send the details of your cases to Mr. Jack Carriglio, P.O. Box 617880, Chicago, IL 60661, it will help in this endeavor. See our request in the RUPA website under "Medical" and thanks. Alan L. Black Good afternoon, |
Blue Cross / Blue Shield 1-800-535-9825 MEDCO CUSTOMER SERVICE : 800-864-1425 SHE will jump on MEDCO and have them calling you to resolve denial of payment for drug repayment ! She has helped me twice in the last month resolve disputes with NO FURTHER submissions or paperwork ! ! .SHE IS A QUEEN ! ! !
Nov 10 2007 Earlier today one of our members asked me: "...has anyone compared our medical benefits with alternative med programs?" (Note: As you'll see below at the time of the analysis in 2005 Mort was Exec VP of RUAEA) Our only advice to you is the following:
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Original Message ----- From George Howell
One seldom hears of complaints of having to wait very long lenghts Socialized whatever just dumbs down the system, and creates READ ON: The difference in unhappiness in the U.S. and Canadian health Yes, there are complaints about the quality of medical care in both As Don Hodges pointed out in his article about the Mac versus IBM Med docs are taught the Koch Postulates in med school, and Medical doctors will just go along with the current thinking rather Wishing all wellness!!! George Howell |
Sept 02, 2007 Many older but still pertinent postings about medical issues are still here but may be 'way down the page.
FAA Accepted Medications | Updated 6/1/07 (It's a long list!) FAA Medications Master List The FAA has not published an official list of approved drugs. The following list of FAA accepted medications is the most accurate and complete information available on the listed date. This "master list" was developed by Pilot Medical Solutions through communication with the FAA. Medications included in this list are approved only for the condition listed on a case by case basis. Some medications listed may not be approved for a given individual and medications not listed may also be acceptable. New medications usually require a 1 year review hold beginning on the date of FDA approval. This is to establish a side effect profile beyond the manufacturers published material and does not include herbal preparations or supplements. To assure FAA medical eligibility ADD - See Attention Deficit Disorder Arrhythmia (heart) - Some commonly prescribed drugs such as Tikosyn (Dofetilide) are not approved by the FAA. The following anti-arrhythmic medications are approved on a case by case basis and subject to a compete cardiovascular evaluation. * Arava (Leflunomide) MORE Allergy, Cold, Decongestants - Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine) and Entex (Phenylpropanolamin e) are approved by the FAA provided they are not combined with an antihistamine. Claritin (Loratadine) , Clarinex (Desloratadine) and Allegra (Fexofenadine) are acceptable to the FAA provided no negative side effects are experienced. Vitamin B-12 or other prophylactic injections are approved provided there are no side effects. Approved Inhalers include: * Afrin (Pseudoephedrine) Sedating medications are not acceptable. This includes but is not limited to: Cetirazine (Zyrtec), Dipenhydramine (Benadryl) and Astelin (Azelastine) Nasal Inhaler. MORE Antacids / G.I. Medications - The following medications are approved by the FAA on a case by case basis only. Pilots With Ulcers * Aciphex (Rabeprazole) Anti-Bacterial - Flagyl (Metronidazole) Antibiotics - The use of antibiotics is usually permissible, providing the drug has been taken for long enough (usually 48 hours) to rule out the possibility of adverse effects. A partial list of acceptable antibiotics include: * Azactam (Aztreonam) Anti-Coagulants - The following may be approved on a case by case basis: * Aspirin Anti-Depressants / Anxiety - With the exception of herbal preparations, SSRI medications are rarely approved by the FAA. MORE Anti-Fungal - The following may be approved by the FAA on a case by case basis: * Gris-PEG (Griseofulvin) Anti-Inflammatory & Arthritis - The following medications are usually FAA approved provided there are no side effects and the condition being treated does not preclude safe performance of flight duties: * Acetaminophen Anti-Malarial - The following medications are acceptable for malaria prophylaxis: * Chloroquine Phosphate Anti-Viral - The following medications are approved by the FAA on a case by case basis: * Famvir (Famciclovir) Anxiety - With the exception of herbal preparations (Saint Johns Wort), anti-anxiety medications, such as Paxil, are rarely approved by the FAA. MORE Asthma / COPD - These conditions often require a combination of drugs which are usually approved by the FAA on an individual basis only. Prednisone is acceptable up to 20 mg only. Case by case approved medications include but may not be limited to: * Advair, Flovent (Fluticasone Propiona) Attention Deficit (ADD) - Ritalin (Methylphenidate Hydrochloride) , Adderall (Dextroamphetamine Sulfate) and Strattera (Atomoxetine Hydrochloride) are usually not approved by the FAA. Under rare circumstances, individuals using Ritalin have been approved with restrictions. Approval is more likely for adults due to the difficulty in accurately evaluating ADD in young people and typically requires time off medication prior to flight. Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH) The following are approved by the FAA for the prevention or treatment of Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH) on a case by case basis: * Avodart (Dutasteride) Bi-Polar Disorder - With the exception of herbal preparations (Saint Johns Wort), psychotropic medications, such as lithium, are rarely approved by the FAA. MORE Bladder Control - Ditropan (Oxybutynin Chloride) is no longer approved by the FAA. The following medications may be approved by the FAA for bladder control after 30 days of symptom-free use: * Enablex (Darifenacin) Blood Thinners - The following are usually approved on a case by case basis: * Aspirin With the exception of aspirin, detailed information regarding the underlying condition and INR's are required. Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Centrally acting agents such as Guanethidine, Guanadrel, Guanabenz, Methyldopa, and Reserpine are not acceptable to the FAA. The following medications are FAA approved on a case by case basis: Alpha Blockers / Inhibitors * Cardura (Doxazosin) Beta Blockers * Blocadren, Timolide (Timolol) Calcium Channel Blockers * Adalat, Procardia (Nifedipine) Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors * Aceon (Perindopril Erbumine) Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists * Atacand (Candesartan) Diuretics * Aldactone, Aldactazide (Spironolactone) Botox - Botulinum Neurotoxin may be FAA approved on a case by case basis only for severe muscle cramps, cosmetic wrinkle treatments or diagnostic purposes. Cancer - Most cancer treatment/medicatio ns, such as; Chemotherapy, must be completed prior to resuming flight duties. The drugs below may be accepted by the FAA on a case by case basis only: * Femara (Letrozole) Cardiovascular - With the exception of chest-pain drugs (ISMO, IMDUR, ISORDIL), most cardiovascular medications are FAA approved. (see arrhythmia, blood pressure, blood thinners, cholesterol) Cervical Dystonia - Botulinum Neurotoxin may be FAA approved on a case by case basis with extensive requirements and restrictions. Cholesterol / Lipid Management - Most medications used in the treatment of hyperlipidemia or the management of cholesterol are approved by the FAA. * Caduet (Amlodipine Besylate + Atorvastatin Calcium) Contraceptives - Almost always approved Cold - See Allergy / Cold Medications Crohn's Disease - Pentasa (Mesalamine) , Imuran (Azothioprine) and Remicade (infliximab) are FAA approved on a case by case basis only. Depression - With the exception of herbal preparations (Saint Johns Wort), anti-depressants, such as prozac and zoloft, are rarely approved by the FAA. MORE Dermatological - Accutane is approved treatment of acne during daytime flight only. Most topical medications for acne or similar conditions may be approved by the FAA. Submit your medication Diabetes - Humulin, Lantus (Insulin) is approved on a case by case basis for Class 3 medical certification only. With proper documentation, most oral hypoglycemic medications are approved for all classes. This includes: * Actos (Pioglitazone) Some of these medications are not FAA approved in combination with other medications. Contact Us for a free consultation Diarrhea - While this condition is usually self-limiting, the following medications may be used for minor occurrences: * Imodium Other medications require discontinuation at least 48 hours prior to flight. Diet - See Weight Loss/Management Dry Mouth - See Xerostomia DVT - Lovenox Sub-Q (Enoxaparin Sodium) may be FAA approved on a case by case basis only. Endometriosis - Luprin / Lupron (Leuprolide) may be FAA approved on a case by case basis. Erectile Dysfunction - Cialis (Tadalafil) is acceptable if used 36 or more hrs before flight. Essential Thrombocytosis - Anagrilide is FAA approved on a case by case basis. Gall Stones - Actigall (Ursidiol) is FAA approved on a case by case basis. Gastrointestinal (G.I.) Issues (GERD, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Etc.] - Librax and similar preparations containing psychotropic drugs are not acceptable to the FAA. UNACCEPTABLE medications included but is not limited to: * Diphenoxylate (Lomotil) The following medications are ACCEPTABLE on a case by case basis only: * Aciphex (Rabeprazole) Gingivitis - Most mouthwash type medications, including prescriptions drugs such as Chlorhexidine Gluconate, are FAA approved. Glaucoma - Most glaucoma medications such as Xalatan (Latanoprost) are FAA approved after proper evaluation. MORE Gout - With detailed evaluation the following medications are usually FAA approved: * Benemid (Probenecid) Graves' Disease - Provided applicant is euthyroid, the following medications may be FAA approved on a case by case basis only: * Tapazole (Methimazole) Hair Growth - The following are FAA approved on a case by case basis: * Propecia (Finisteride) Headaches - The following drugs are FAA approved on a case by case basis: * Acetaminophen Heart - With the exception of angina (chest-pain) meds (ISMO, IMDUR, ISORDIL), most cardiovascular medications are approved on a case by case basis. MORE (see: arrhythmia, blood pressure, blood thinners, cholesterol) Hepatitis C - Pegasys (Peginterferon alfa-2a), Rebetron (Ribavirin and Interferon alfa-2b), Roferon-A (Interferon alpha -2a), Roferon-A (Interferon alfa-2a, Recombinat) are NOT acceptable to the FAA. Herbal - Most herbal preparations are approved by the FAA provided there are no side effects and the condition being treated is not disqualifying. MORE Herpes - The following medications are approved by the FAA on a case by case basis: * Famvir (Famciclovir) HIV - Antiretroviral medications may be FAA approved on an individual basis if prescribed in compliance with the 1996 DHHS Panel recommendations regarding the Clinical Practices for the Treatment of HIV. Case by case approval may be obtained for: * Epivir (Lamivudine) Hormone Replacement - Teatment (Premarin / Estrogen) is approved by the FAA. Hypertension - See Blood Pressure Hyperthyroidism - Provided applicant is euthyroid, the following medications may be approved on a case by case basis only: * Tapazole (Methimazole) Infection - The use of antibiotics is often permissible, providing the drug is has been FDA approved for at least one year and has been used long enough (usually 48 hours) to rule out the possibility of adverse effects. A partial list of acceptable antibiotics include: * Azactam (Aztreonam) Influenza Virus Infection - The following meds are FAA approved on a case by case basis: * Relenza (Zanamivir) Impotence - See Erectile Dysfunction Immune System Suppressants / Anti-Rejection Agents - Cellcept may be acceptable to the FAA on a case by case basis. Insomnia - See Sleep Infertility - Proxeed (acetyl-L-carnitine HCl) is approved on a case by case basis for male infertility. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - See GI Kidney Stones / Renal Calculi - Alkalinizing and Cholelitholytic Agents, such as those below, are approved by the FAA on a case by case basis. * Actigall, Urso (Ursodial) Lipid Management- See Cholesterol / Lipid Management Meniere's Disease - Dyrenium (Triamterene) is acceptable on a case by case basis only. Migraine - The following drugs are FAA approved on a case by case basis only and depend upon the manifestation and severity of the migraine: * Axert (Almotriptan Malate) Mood Enhancing - With the exception of herbal preparations, mood ameliorating medications are not approved by the FAA. Motion Sickness - Ginger root is an acceptable treatment for the prevention of benign motion sickness. MORE Mouth Infection Prevention - Most mouthwash type medications, including prescriptions drugs such as Chlorhexidine Gluconate, are FAA approved. Multiple Sclerosis - The following are FAA approved on a case by case basis: * Avonex (Interferon BETA-1a) Myasthenia Gravis - Narcolepsy (See Sleep) Nerve Agent Poisoning (PREVENTION) Obesity - Xenical (Orlistat) may be FAA approved after 30 days without negative side-effects and on a case by case basis. Osteoarthritis - See Anti-Inflammatory & Arthritis Osteoprosis - The following may be FAA approved on a case by case basis: * Evista (Raloxifen) Pain Control - The following medications are usually FAA approved provided there are no side effects and the condition being treated does not preclude safe performance of flight duties: * Advil Botox (derivative of the botulism bacteria) may be approved on a case by case basis. Prolactinoma / pituitary disorders - Dostinex (Cabergoline) may be acceptable for treatment of pituitary disorders (prolactanoma) . Parkinson's Disease - Many drugs such as Requip (Ropinirole) , Mirapex * Atamet, Sinemet (Carbidopa + Levodopa) Periodontitis - Most mouthwash type medications, including prescriptions drugs such as Chlorhexidine Gluconate, are FAA approved. Polycythemia - Hydrea (Hydroxyurea) is approved by the FAA on a case by case basis. Psychiatric- With the exception of herbal preparations, psychotropic medications are rarely approved by the FAA. MORE Prostate - The following may be FAA approved for Prostate Cancer on a case by case basis: * Casodex / Zolodex (Bicalutamide) The following are approved by the FAA for the prevention or treatment of Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH) on a case by case basis: * Cardura (Doxazosin Mesylate) Renal Calculi - See Kidney Stones Restless Leg Syndrome - Some commonly prescribed drugs such as Neurontin (Gabapentin) are not approved by the FAA. The following may be approved by the FAA on a case by case basis only: * Atamet Seizure - Anti-seizure medications are NOT FAA approved for pilots. MORE Sickle Cell Anemia - Droxia (Hydroxurea) may be FAA approved on a case by case basis. Scleroderma, Peyronie's Disease - Potaba (Aminobenzoate) may be acceptable on a case by case basis. Skin - Cosmetic wrinkle treatments with Botox (Botulinum Neurotoxin) may be FAA approved on a case by case basis with restrictions. Skin ACNE - See ACNE Sleep Disorders- Sleep prevention medications, such as Provigil (Modafinil), are not approved by the FAA. Most sleep aiding medications are NOT approved by the FAA. This includes: * Halcion (Triazolam) Ambien (zolpidem) may be acceptable to the FAA on a case by case basis with 24-48 hour wait after use. Over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol PM or Excedrin PM (Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride) may be acceptable for temporary insomnia with a satisfactory grounding period. Melatonin is approved for pilots WITHOUT sleep disorders. MORE Smoking Cessation - Nicotine patches or gum is approved on an individual basis. Zyban (Bupropion hydrochloride) or other mood ameliorating drugs may be utilized to quit smoking but must be discontinued prior to FAA approval. MORE CESSATION INFO Steroids - Topical steroids may be approved for the treatment of minor dermatological conditions on a case by case basis: * Cortef (Hydrocortisone) Thyroid - Medications such as Synthroid (Levothyroxin) , used to stabilize thyroid function are usually approved but only an an individual basis. Topical - Accutane is approved treatment of acne during daytime flight only. Most topical medications for acne or similar conditions may be approved by the FAA. Ulcer - The use of prophylactic medications for the peptic ulcer illnesses, such as antacids, H-2 blockers, and Sucralfate may be allowed, depending on the specific condition and severity. Favorable FAA consideration requires extensive evaluation. Medications approved on a case by case basis include: * Aciphex (Rabeprazole) Ulcerative Colitis - The following are approved on a case by case basis only: * Asacol (Mesalamine) Uterine Bleeding / Fibroids - Luprin, Lupron (Leuprolide) may be FAA approved on a case by case basis. Vaccinations - Prophylactic injections such as; immunizations or B-12 shots are usually approved provided there are no side effects. Viral Infection - The following anti-viral medications are approved by the FAA on a case by case basis: * Famvir (Famciclovir) Weight Loss / Management - Fenfluramine (Pondimin), Phentermine (Adipex), Dexfenfluramine (Redux) are NOT acceptable to the FAA. Xenical (Orlistat) is approved after observation for adverse effects. While some over-the-counter or herbal preparations are not regulated by the FAA, they may have a high incidence of adverse side effects. MORE Xerostomia (Dry Mouth) - Salagen (Pilocarpine Hydrochloride) may be FAA approved to promote saliva on a case by case basis. More useful information:
The test appears much more accurate than the Hopkins Researchers Find Better Blood Test for Prostate Cancer New studies of a blood protein recently identified at Johns Hopkins, Current standards of screening and testing for prostate cancer focus However, PSA testing often erroneously highlights non cancerous Due to elevated PSA levels, approximately 1.6 million men undergo He says that of the entire population of men in the United States who In a study published online in Lancet, Getzenberg and a team of "A blood test based on EPCA-2 may greatly improve our ability to Getzenberg and his team measured EPCA-2 levels in the blood of 330 Patients with an EPCA-2 cutoff level of 30 nanograms per milliliter Results showed that the EPCA-2 test was negative in 97 percent of the In contrast, in a multi-institutional study published in 2003 in the In addition, 77 percent of the BPH patients had a level of EPCA-2 When it came to correctly identifying patients with prostate cancer, The 2003 study showed that PSA levels between 4 and 10 nanograms per Results of the study also revealed that EPCA-2 levels were "This is important since cancer that has spread outside of the Finally, the EPCA-2 test identified 78 percent of the men with EPCA-2 is the second prostate-cancer marker identified by Getzenberg Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer found in American Getzenberg says larger clinical trials for EPCA-2 are planned that More on the same subject: http://tinyurl. com/2d6r5n New Blood Test For Prostate Cancer April 26, 2007 (WebMD) An experimental blood test for prostate cancer seems to work better The new test looks for a protein called EPCA-2, early prostate cancer The test is being developed by Robert H. Getzenberg, Ph.D., director of "We wanted to find something that really identified people with prostate Getzenberg has a financial interest in the test. But experts who do not Otis Brawley, M.D., chief of the solid tumor service at Emory University's Charles A. Coltman Jr., M.D., associate chairman for cancer control and Ganesh Palapattu, M.D., assistant professor of urology at the University of "This not only helps tell whether you have prostate cancer, but what kind of Getzenberg and colleagues report early studies of the EPCA-2 test in the EPCA-2 Test Beats PSA Nobody is entirely happy with the current PSA test for prostate cancer. A Getzenberg's team tried out the EPCA-2 test on blood samples from several Both in terms of detecting cancer when it was actually there (sensitivity) , More importantly, it beat the PSA test in predicting whether prostate cancer "I predict that within the next year, this test is going to be widely used Getzenberg says it will be at least two years before the test is "out on the "What we really need to know is how this test behaves in all comers, when we When, and if, the EPCA-2 test is approved, men will still need better "At least a third, maybe two-thirds of guys with localized disease have By Daniel DeNoon
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And for aeromedical information you might want to check this website from Dr. Samuelson. He has a lot of related links to the FAA, permitted medicines and related pilot health concern subjects.
Another Health Tip: Aspirin My wife was in cardiac research in San Diego and said that if you are having an acute myocardial infarction (AMI or MI), commonly known as a heart attack, a disease state that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the heart is interrupted, coughing will not help, but if you are suffering from heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias) which occur when the electrical impulses in your heart become irregular, it might convert you and cause your heart to start beating normally again or more normal. Web Med talks about a possible help but warns not to just let it go and seek medical attention. Hey, if you are waiting for the ambulance and have nothing better to do, why not give it try...might not die. If you are having the big one "MI", you are hoping they can get you to a hospital for blood thinners,clot busters, angioplasty, stents or a by pass. Carrying a box of aspirin around with you possibly help if you are lucid enough to take a couple and thin your blood enough to get you to the hospital. If you have a major blockage you will probably not be awake to do any thing for yourself. Just saying coughing is false because of Snoops is no answer. You have to have the whole educated picture. If you are in a state of health that is likely to cause a heart attack, do your home work on what you can or cannot do for your self while waiting for professional medical attention. * * * * If aspirin smells like vinegar it is no good. If you think you might be having a cardiovascular incident chew 2 aspirin. Recognizing a Stroke There are 2 types of stroke...ischemic and hemorragic. 75% of strokes are ischemic, resulting from complete occulsion of an artery that deprives the brain of essential nutrients. These occulsions are caused Garry Clark * * * * Just to add an agreement on the brain bleed and warning not to take aspirin. If you have a speech problem, Aphasia (or aphemia) is a loss or impairment of the ability to produce and/or comprehend language, due to brain damage. This as stated could be a clot which aspirin might help or a bleed which will worsen the condition. Do not confuse a heart attack with a stroke. If you are having aphasia, you have a short time to get to the hospital for them to decide whether it is a bleed or clot. You have about a 3 hour window if they are going to administer the clot busting drugs. My sister in law had this a couple of years ago. Some one wrote some time back to use the word STR. Ask them to Smile, Talk coherently, and Raise both arms. If they fail one or more of the three they may be having a stroke. Or it could just be late into happy hour....enjoy life, it is the only one you have
From: Larry Walters We want to point out the trouble a pilot can get into if a doctor or * * * For those of you who, like me, do not know anything about this "special issuance", here's a short blurb about it and other FAA sites. For more information, go to: http://tinyurl.com/3bfsa5 Authorization for Special Issuance of a Medical Certificate and AME 1. Special Issuance. At his discretion, the Federal Air Surgeon may grant an An airman medical certificate issued under the provisions of an
URPBPA) WEBSITE UPDATE 12-30-06 The United Retired Pilots Benefit Protection Association (URPBPA) has had discussions with the United Benefits Service Center about URPBPA’s attorneys are seeking to verify this information with While URPBPA cannot vouch for the accuracy of this information at this Retirees who have their payments automatically made from an account should also check with their financial institution and the Benefits Nov 15, 2006, received from JFKFO retiree Ray Cicola: 1. Medical coverage is the same- changes are in drug plan 2. Max out of pocket old plan = $1500 New = 3,850 3. Non AFA People who retired before 2003 have freeze on drug copay The Third person said freeze will be lost forever if you go with new plan. 4.The new and old drug program qualify with medicare as creditable 5. My savings per month at age 65.5 for New medicare select plan is Soooooo...my conclusions. ...as with all insurance it is a gamble...If Regards, Ray Oct. 23 From R.Brooks I guess I am a slow learner. BCBS has informed me that the UAL plan for retired pilots and family over 65 is called a "carve out" plan Does anyone have a grip on the significance of this change? Besides the $1500 annual out of pocket, the plan seems to seriously limit any If anybody has this figured out, please jump in. If this has been hashed out before, my apologies in advance. - Oct 25 To Dick and all interested: Dear Dick Brooks. Nov 2,2006 From: Dick Brooks Alan, your work on the 1114 committee is much appreciated by me and I'm sure, most retired pilots. The $1500 out of pocket drives one to There are two problems with this course of action. Existing conditions are considered by the underwriter unless our current plan Secondly, our Medco expenses cannot be improved on and probably cannot be matched by an individual. The best Medicare "D" Combining the drug and health care issues above it would seem that Fromchanging insurance at this point probably doesn't make sense, yet. (Caution, writer has no expertise in this area) Thanks to all for the discussion. Dick Brooks Aug. 26th 2006 -- bob enander <pattibob2@tampabay.rr.com wrote: I really didn't know who to send this to, but I would like to see a survey on how many of us have had bouts with skin cancer. Many of us sat under those bubble canopies in the military and then 25-40 years with UAL with 25,000 -40,000 ft. less atmosphere to filter out the UV's. Granted in the military we were covered up pretty well with hard hat and mask but I'm sure we still got hit. As I sit here writing this, with 25 stiches in my face from surgery yesterday to get a Basal lump out of my right cheek, I couldn't help but wonder if the airline Industry leaders or the aircraft manufacters have done anything (UV protection on the canopies and windscreens) to remedy the situation or are they just ignoring the problem. Also ALPA should look into this. My Dermatologist told me that his contemporaries have know of this problem for some time and are astounded that something wasn't done in the 60s when Jetliners came out, but even more amazed that the problem appears to still be uncorrected. For several years now I have been getting treatment (freezing) every 3-4 months and this is the 3rd Basal cell I've had removed. Thanks, Bob Enander 1955-1990 MDW ORD SFO ORD LAX ORD August 14, 2006 On April 7,2006 I wrote about being unable to enroll my wife in a Medicare,Part D, prescription drug plan. United had failed to update BC/BS of the "Termination" of my wifes coverage(My election) on 01/01/2006.
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Some contact info: 1. Computershare's phone number is 312-588-4267 and toll-free 800 2. re Life Insurance Questions: a. Mary Lou Gleason, Benefits Analyst - Strategy & Design b. Cigna Group Insurance: Pauline Jimenez, customer service (1-800- 3. For questions regarding why you have received the distribution, This is the e-mail I received from ADP regarding the coupons. (ADP = Automatic Data Processing, the company handling this stuff.)avn Good Afternoon, A quick update for you on January Coupons for Retiree's: * The retiree direct bill file(s) have been loaded and all error reports completed. If you have any questions let me know.
Thank you and Have a Great Day! Perricone, Catherine [WHQIN]
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From: Graham Norris, Here's what I've gleaned after looking into insurance with Medicare: Essentially there are two forms of addon coverage to medicare; Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement, plus Part D.
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And earlier this summer I received this info. ed
Substantial Medicare Part B fee increases were contained within the law that established the Medicare drug program. This is the first time I have seen these figures. I thought it would be good for retirees to have a heads up warning of what is to come. This info is from MOAA. a military retirement organization I belong to. Dave Malone
Substantial Increase in Medicare Part B Premiums Coming for Some in 2007
Passed as part of the 2003 Medicare modernization law that established the Medicare Part D drug program, Congress implemented a plan to increase Part B charges for millions of senior-aged Americans. Beginning on January 1, 2007 the government will begin means -testing for Medicare Part B premiums. This could result in substantially higher Part B premiums for many members.
Currently, Part B premiums are set to cover 25 percent of the government's total cost per individual to provide Medicare benefits. Beneficiaries pay ($88.50 per month, per person) and the government pays the remaining 75 percent ($265.50). Under the law, some higher-income beneficiaries will see their Part B premiums doubled or tripled by 2009, as their premiums will be raised to cover a higher share of the government's total cost.
Those premium increases will be phased in over three years with 30 percent of the increase coming in 2007, 67 percent coming in 2008, and the full increase in 2009. MOAA remains as concerned today as we were three years ago about this plan to means-test what was enacted to be a universal health insurance plan for all older Americans.
Taking into account annual increases in Medicare Part B due to inflation, the chart details what premiums may look like over the required 3-year phase-in of the means-testing system. Those persons filing jointly should double the "Individuals" income levels.
NEW: 4/7/2006
This is my first shot at a communication so I am probably doing it incorrectly. I wanted to pass on some info that it took me about eight hours of phone call frustration to glean.
First of this year I "voluntarily withdrew" my wife from the Blue Cross/Blue Shield Traditional Medical plan thru United and got her her own "Medigap" Policy with USAA where they pay everything that Medicare does not, including the deductibles.
I tried to sign my wife up for Medicare Part-D, prescription drug coverage. I signed her up on the Medicare web site, got a confirmation number that said she was "Enrolled".
A few days later I got notification that she could NOT be enrolled because of "Prior coverage" thru her employer plan that was "equal to or better" than Part-D. Remember, she was removed from said coverage 01/01/2006.
Hours of frustration later I finally tracked the problem to BC/BS failing to electronically notify Medicare that my wife was no longer covered. They do this by magnetic tape which may take 60-90 days to be sent and received by Medicare.
Until the incorrect data about double coverage is removed from her Medicare records(You cannot do it yourself or send them proof, like the letter I got from BC/BS saying she is NOT covered), you cannot sign up for prescription Drug coverage under the "NEW" Medicare Part-D.
I would like this to be entered in the "Medical Benefits" part of the website. If I need to submit it another way, or another form, please let me know. Louis C. Paulin, 064259, ORD D10 S/O, Retired 11/01/2001.
Thanks, LOU
FYI - More from WHQHR - Dale T
This is a the predominate answer to the question - do we have Life insurance or not?
Dear Mr. Harper,
You recently wrote to Bud Cochran regarding information received from the United Benefit Service Center (UBSC) and the CIGNA call center (CBCA) regarding the termination of the retiree life insurance and the conversion rights. As you know, United reached an agreement with the Retiree Coalition during bankruptcy which included the termination of the retiree life insurance benefit in exchange for lowering retiree medical contributions. Below is the chronology and detail of the retiree life insurance termination for the Retiree Coalition group of retirees:
• Affected retirees received a packet from United Airlines dated July 16, 2004 that included information regarding the termination of retiree life. Affected retirees included those who retired before July 1, 2003 and were enrolled in retiree medical, including those retirees on voluntary suspension of medical (VSOP), as of July 1, 2004.
• The original proposed termination of retiree life date was 1/1/05. United Airlines and the Retiree Coalition worked on the life insurance valuation and retiree medical contribution issues through Fall of 2005. Therefore, termination of retiree life insurance was delayed and retirees retained coverage through 12/31/05.
• United approved the conversion letter that Cigna sent March 1, 2006 containing information on the optional conversion to an individual policy was sent to all affected retirees.
• CIGNA subsequently advised us that the life insurance coverage must remain in place through the conversion offering. Therefore, United kept the coverage in place through March 31, 2006.
Since CIGNA advised us that some retirees were still receiving letters last week, they have agreed to extend the conversion deadline to March 31,2006. Also, we have been assured that the UBSC and CIGNA are now communicating the accurate information regarding termination of coverage and the possibility of conversion.
Best regards,
Mary Lou Gleason
Benefits Analyst - Strategy & Design
United Airlines WHQHR
P. O. Box 66100
Chicago, IL 60666
1-847-700-9909
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Important Notice from United Airlines
About Your Prescription Drug Coverage
World Headquarters 1200 East Algonquin Road Elk Grove Township, Illinois 60007 Mailing Address: Box 66100, Chicago, Illinois 60666
Dear Mr. Xxxxx:
United is required to send this Notice of Creditable Coverage to anyone who is eligible for Medicare. If you or one of your eligible dependents qualify for Medicare, please read and keep this important notice. You will also ,want to review the options described to determine if there is any advantage to enrolling in a Medicare-approved prescription drug plan. If you or one of your eligible dependents is not eligible for Medicare, you may disregard this notice. When the new Medicare prescription drug benefit goes into effect on January 1, 2006, United will continue to offer prescription drug coverage to eligible employees, retirees and their dependents. If you join a Medicare prescription drug plan, the Medicare benefit will automatically replace your current primary prescription drug coverage with United (if you currently are enrolled for such coverage).
Be sure to read this notice carefully and retain it as proof of your United Airlines prescription drug coverage.
1. Starting January 1, 2006, new Medicare prescription drug coverage will be available to everyone who is eligible for Medicare.
2. United Airlines has determined that the prescription drug coverage offered by the United Airlines Medical Plan for active and retired employees is, on average, for all plan participants, expected to pay out as much as the standard Medicare prescription drug coverage will pay. *
3. Read this notice carefully, it explains the options you have under Medicare prescription drug coverage and can help you decide whether or not you want to enroll.
* Although the current program will continue through 2006, United reserves the right to provide post-Medicare prescription drug benefits that are supplemental and secondary to Medicare Part D benefits in 2007.
If you currently have United'sprescription-drug-coverage, the fact-that this coverage is, on average, as good as the standard Medicare prescription drug coverage, allows you to keep this coverage and not pay extra if you later decide to enroll in Medicare coverage.
People who are eligible for Medicare can enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan from November 15, 2005, through May 15, 2006. However, because you have existing prescription drug coverage that, on average, is as good as Medicare coverage, you can choose to join a Medicare prescription drug plan in the future. Each year, you will have the opportunity to enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan between November 15 and December 31.
If you do decide to enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan and drop your United Airlines prescription drug coverage, be aware that you may not be able to get this coverage back.
You should compare your current coverage, including which drugs are covered, with the coverage and cost of the plans offering Medicare prescription drug coverage in your area. Special rules apply when/if you can get the medical/prescription drug coverage reinstated. Retirees refer to the Voluntary Suspension rules in the medical section of your Summary Plan Description. Active employees refer to the Special and Open Enrollment rules in the medical section of your Summary Plan Description.
You should also know that if you drop or lose your coverage with United Airlines and don't enroll in Medicare prescription drug coverage after your current coverage ends, you may pay more to enroll in Medicare prescription drug coverage later. If after May 15, 2006, you go 63 days or longer without prescription drug coverage that's as good .as Medicare's prescription drug coverage, your monthly premium will go up at least one percent per month for every month after May 15, 2006, that you did not have that coverage. For example, if you go 19 months without coverage, your premium will always be at least 19 percent higher than what most other people pay. You'll have to pay this higher premium as long as you have Medicare coverage. In addition, you may have to wait until next November to enroll.
More information about your options under Medicare prescription drug coverage is available.
More detailed information about Medicare plans that offer prescription drug coverage will be available in October 2005 in the Medicare & You 2006 handbook. You should receive a copy of the handbook in the mail from Medicare. You may also be contacted directly by Medicare-approved prescription drug plans. More information about Medicare prescription drug plans is available:
. Visit www.medicare.gov for personalized help.
. Call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (see your copy of
the Medicare & You handbook for their telephone number).
. Call1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call
-1-877-486-2048.
The Medicare-approved prescription drug plan may be better for you if you have limited income and resources.
For people with limited income and resources, extra help paying for a Medicare prescription drug plan is available. Information about this extra help is available from the Social Security Administration (SSA). For more information about this extra help, visit SSA online at www.socialsecurity.gov, or call them at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800325-0778).
For more information about this notice, please contact the United Benefits Service Center at 1-888-825-0188.
You may receive this notice at other times in the future, such as before the next period you can enroll in Medicare prescription drug coverage or if this coverage changes. You also may request a copy of this notice from the United Benefits Service Center.
Keep this notice. If you enroll in one of the new plans approved by Medicare, which offers prescription drug coverage after May 15, 2006, you may need to provide a copy of this notice to prove that you are not required to pay a higher premium amount. And remember: If you join a Medicare prescription drug plan, you will no longer have primary coverage under United Airlines' plan.
Sincerely,
David Fishman
Manager, Benefit Services
