High and Basic Alternative Plans Have Higher Deductibles
Posted 02/02/12; Modified 04/20/12

Each year, tobacco use costs the HealthChoice health plans and their members approximately $52 million. Because these costs impact all health plan premiums, on January 1, 2012, HealthChoice introduced the High Alternative and Basic Alternative Plans for tobacco users. These plans have individual deductibles and out-of-pocket limits that are $250 higher than the HealthChoice High and Basic Plans.

During Option Period last year, primary members were required to complete and submit an Attestation stating they and their covered family members were tobacco-free. Members who did not complete the Tobacco-Free Attestation were automatically enrolled in an Alternative plan.

Providers should be aware that the individual deductible for each of these plans is $750 rather than the $500 standard deductible.