Penn State Intercom......August 22, 2002

Health-care plan
details announced

The Office of Human Resources has concluded its review of health care plans for 2003. In evaluating the available physician and hospital networks offered by each of the plans, as well as services and the willingness to support faculty and staff in managing their health care and wellness needs, it has been determined that, for faculty and staff residing in a number of counties, primarily in the central Pennsylvania area, Geisinger Health Plans will not be offered after December 31 this year.

The University will continue to offer Health America HMO in all areas where it is available. The Health America HMO costs are comparable to the Geisinger Health Plan costs. Health America provides access to all of the same health care providers as Geisinger in most areas, so there will be little or no disruption to access for physicians or hospital services in the areas affected by this change.

While the University wants to provide access to any good health care plan across the Commonwealth and all of the campus colleges, there is still benefit to faculty and staff and the University by condensing as many faculty and staff into one plan as possible. With this in mind, increasing the availability of HealthAmerica coverage will enhance the overall cost effectiveness and quality of health coverage offered through the University.

The University plans to continue offering Geisinger Health Plans in Northeast Pennsylvania until such time as other arrangements are viable. Those counties are: Bradford, Carbon, Lackawana, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Sullivan, Susquehana, Tioga, Wayne and Wyoming. The University also plans to expand Keystone Western HMO coverage in certain counties in Northwest Pennsylvania. All other health plans will remain unchanged.

As in the past, faculty and staff are able to make elections or changes in health care coverages or providers during the November open enrollment period to be effective with the first of the new year. Look for detailed information regarding premiums and availability in your county with your Time to Choose information in October.

The University is confident that the health plan options for 2003 will provide good coverage for the majority of University employees. As has always been the case, the Office of Human Resources will continue to work with those faculty and staff with unique needs on a case by case basis.

Questions about this or other benefits matters may be directed to the Employee Benefits Division, email bene@psu.edu, or telephone 814-865-1473.

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