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Past Issues

January 2003

Important Updates

FEP adds some preventive benefits

The Federal Employee Program (FEP) is the largest group administered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida. Changes to the plan in 2003 are minimal; several enhance coverage for preventive services and screenings.

Kellogg is a new NASCO group

The Kellogg Company is a new Blue Cross and Blue Shield national group with an effective policy date of Jan. 1, 2003.

MACTEC joins NASCO

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is administering the national PPO program on behalf of MACTEC, Inc. as of Jan. 1, 2003.

New plans cover Publix, Eckerd associates

Groups that were covered under retired point-of-service products from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida (BCBSF) or its HMO subsidiary, Health Options, (PPC Care Manager, BCBSF Care Manager and Elect Care) have new coverage beginning Jan. 1, 2003.

New year brings benefit changes

Happy New Year! The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida and Health Options staff wish you a prosperous 2003. We look forward to working with you during the year to improve efficiency and enhance our members’ health care experience.

State signs 3-year renewal

The State of Florida has renewed its agreement with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida to administer the self-insured State Employees’ PPO Plan for three years beginning Jan. 1, 2003.

Tropicana PPO, Indemnity plans moved to Empire BCBS; HMO remains HOI

Tropicana’s PPO and Indemnity health care plans moved to Empire Blue Cross and Blue Shield as of Jan. 1, 2003. The Empire plan administers the benefits and medical coverage for the two plans.

Wal-Mart drops chiropractic coverage

As of Jan. 1, 2003, the Wal-Mart Associates Medical Plan no longer covers claims for chiropractic services.

Billing

Automatic crossover expanded to include all Medigap claims

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida has streamlined the claim-payment process for Medicare supplement claims by expanding automatic crossover to include all of our Medicare supplement plans.

Wal-Mart drops chiropractic coverage

As of Jan. 1, 2003, the Wal-Mart Associates Medical Plan no longer covers claims for chiropractic services.

Products and Services

Medicare & More now in 3 counties

In 2003, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida’s HMO subsidiary, Health Options, is offering its Medicare HMO product, Medicare & More, in three South Florida counties: Dade, Broward and Palm Beach.

Wal-Mart drops chiropractic coverage

As of Jan. 1, 2003, the Wal-Mart Associates Medical Plan no longer covers claims for chiropractic services.