FEHB beneficiaries have an annual open enrollment season during which they can decide whether to remain in their current health plan or switch to a different plan. Access http://www.opm.gov and explore Employment and Benefits. Investigate the options under FEHB and their FSA plans.
Explore the website for the national Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association at http://www.bluecares.com. Enter your ZIP code, and look up information about the Blue Cross and Blue Shield affiliate for the state in which you live. What types of plans are offered?
Private payers have valuable information for providers on their websites, such as coverage bulletins, provider manuals, and referral/authorization requirements. Investigate the website of a major payer, and explore the Providers tab to see what transactions can be handled. Is it possible, for example, to check eligibility, benefits, claims, referrals, and precertification status online?
Use a search engine to access the America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) website and review current information on health savings accounts. For example, research whether unused funds left in HSAs at the end of a year are considered taxable income to the insured.
