2021 2022 Benefits Guide - City of Avondale

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2021 2022 Benefits Guide - City of Avondale
2021 – 2022
Benefits Guide
2021 2022 Benefits Guide - City of Avondale
The City of Avondale Benefits Overview

• As of July 1, 2021, the City’s benefits will
  now be known as “The City of Avondale
  Employee Benefits Trust”
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBS)
  is the Medical Benefit Administrator
• BCBS “Blue Care Anywhere” is the
  Telemedicine option
• Dental is offered through Delta Dental
• Vision is offered through Avesis
• Health Equity is the Bank for Health
  Savings Accounts (HSA) → (HDHP Plan)
• Health Equity is the Administrator for the
  Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is
  through IBH
• Sharecare is the Wellness platform through
  BCBS
      When to Enroll
• Basic Life and AD&D (City provided) and
  Supplemental Life and AD&D is offered
  through Minnesota Life (Securian/Ochs)

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2021 2022 Benefits Guide - City of Avondale
Enrollment Reminders

• Please review your 2021-2022 benefits guide for detailed benefit plan information

• Contact Human Resources at 623.333.2200 if you have any questions regarding plan
  benefits or email at HR-Benefits@avondaleaz.gov

• Detailed benefit plan information and more can be found:
     • In this benefits guide
     • Online at https://avondaleaz.sharepoint.com or
     • avondaleaz.gov/government/departments/human-resources/benefits

• Review the Blue Cross Blue Shield prescription formulary to find your tier of
  medication
     • Go to AZBlue - BCBSAZ Healthcare Professionals: Standard Pharmacy Plans
     • Select the 3 & 4 Tier Standard Plans Drug List
     • Search for your medication (Tier 4 medications will fall under Tier 3 for the City
       of Avondale)

• For New Hires, elections are effective on the first day of the month following 31 days
  of employment in a benefits-eligible position.

     When to Enroll
      You can enroll for benefits or change your benefit elections during the
      following  times:
        This Benefits Guide gives you an overview of your benefits including eligibility, plan options, rates,
                                  how to enroll, and other important information.
      •     Within 30    days of    your initial eligibility date (as a newly-hired employee)
                       More detailed information is available in the official plan documents.
      •     During the annual        benefit
                           For information aboutopen   enrollment
                                                  your other            period
                                                             City benefits,  please go to:
      •     Within 30 days of experiencing a Qualifying Event
                 https://www.avondaleaz.gov/government/departments/human-resources/benefits

                          In the case of conflict between the information presented in the
          Benefits Guide and the official Plan documents, the Plan Document(s) determines the coverage

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2021 2022 Benefits Guide - City of Avondale
Table of Contents
Benefits Overview________________                                 Pages 2-3
Employee Benefits Contribution Rates                                 Page 5
As You Enroll _________________________________________              Page 6
City of Contributions for Medical Coverage___________________        Page 7
Annual Enrollment Period                                             Page 8
Qualifying Events                                                 _ Page 9
Benefits Eligibility                                                Page 10
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Health Plans                  Pages 11-12
Medical Plan Summary of Benefits                                Pages 13-14
Prescription Plan Comparison                                        Page 15
Blue Cross of Arizona 24-hour Health                                Page 16
BlueCare Anywhere                                                  Page 16
Medical Plan Resources                                              Page 17
Employee Assistance Program                                        Page 18
Dental Benefits                                                    Page 19
Vision Benefits                                                     Page 20
Basic Life and AD&D Insurance                                       Page 21
Supplemental Life and AD&D Insurance                            Pages 21-22
Tax Free Savings for Medical Expenses (HSA)                     Pages 23-24
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)                                    Page 25
Customer Service Support                                            Page 26
Required Notices                                                Pages 27-31

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2021 2022 Benefits Guide - City of Avondale
Employee Benefits Contribution Rates
Medical Rates
                  Employee      City            Employee Per                             Total per
                                                                      City per Month
                   per PP    Contribution         Month                                   Month
                                             HDHP Plan
Employee Only      $21.56      $198.09             $46.72                $429.20          $475.92
EE + Family        $58.30      $466.24            $126.31               $1,010.19        $1,136.50
                                             PPO Plan
Employee Only      $25.32      $211.98             $54.85                $459.29          $514.14
EE + Family       $160.04      $412.91            $346.76                $894.63         $1,241.39
                                             EPO Plan
Employee Only      $31.36      $216.62             $67.95                $469.35          $537.30
EE + Family       $224.31      $375.31            $486.01                $813.17         $1,299.18

Dental Rates
                  Employee       City          Employee Per
                                                               City per Month       Total per Month
                   per PP     Contribution       Month
Employee Only       $3.95        $15.78            $8.55              $34.19            $42.74
EE + Spouse         $11.42       $26.65           $24.75              $57.75            $82.50
EE + Child(ren)     $13.42       $31.31           $29.07              $67.84            $96.91
EE + Family         $19.81       $46.23           $42.93          $100.16              $143.09

Vision Rates
                  Employee      City            Employee Per                           Total per
                                                                 City per Month
                   per PP    Contribution         Month                                 Month
Employee Only      $3.72        $0.00              $8.06                $0.00            $8.06
EE + Spouse        $6.66        $0.00              $14.43               $0.00           $14.43
EE + Child(ren)    $7.88        $0.00              $17.07               $0.00           $17.07
EE + Family        $9.84        $0.00              $21.31               $0.00           $21.31

City of Avondale HSA Employer Contribution:
Employee Only: $25 per paycheck Employee + Family: $50 per paycheck

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2021 2022 Benefits Guide - City of Avondale
As You Enroll
The City of Avondale offers a comprehensive health and welfare benefits program
designed to meet the needs of our diverse workforce.
This Benefits Guide is designed to help you make informed decisions regarding your benefit elections for
the 2021-2022 plan year. It highlights your options and key program features to consider before making
enrollment elections. You will also find medical plan comparison charts for convenient at-a-glance
referencing, enrollment instructions, and plan contact information. Please review the materials carefully
and choose the plans that best meet your needs.

We encourage you to use this Benefits Guide as a reference throughout the plan year. If you have
questions, contact the HR Department or the plan providers directly. Plan phone numbers and websites
are listed in the Contact Information section on page 27 of this Benefits Guide.

To assist with your initial enrollment
• Dependent data: Gather this information before proceeding with enrollment: Names, birthdates, and
  social security numbers to complete your enrollment process.
• Beneficiary designations: Employees can update beneficiaries at any time. It is encouraged you
  designate/allocate at least a primary beneficiary for enrollments in the Basic and/or Supplement Life
  and AD&D, deferred compensation plans, retirement system etc. Reach out to the HR Benefits
  Department for questions regarding beneficiary changes.
• Personal information: When you move or have changes in your contact information, be sure to enter
  the change in ADP. If you changed your name, notify your HR department. It’s important to keep your
  personal information up-to- date at all times.

When to Enroll
You can enroll for benefits or change your benefit
elections during the following times:
• During the annual benefit open enrollment
   period
• For New Hires, elections are effective on the
   first day of the month following 31 days of
   employment in a benefits-eligible position.
• New Hires have 31 days to submit their benefits
   enrollment from their benefit eligibility date.
        • Example: Hire Date: 6/17/21
        • Benefit Eligibility Date: 8/1/2021 → must
          submit benefits forms to HR no later than
          8/31/2021
•Within 31 days of experiencing a Qualifying Event

You may be required to provide proof of eligibility for your dependents such as a copy of a
 birth certificate, marriage certificate, court order, or any other qualifying legal document.

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2021 2022 Benefits Guide - City of Avondale
City Contributions for Medical Coverage
You and the City share in the costs of your medical plan benefits. The plans are funded through the City’s
and your contributions toward medical plan premiums; costs are incurred as plan participants seek
medical care and claims are paid for that care. As is the case with most health plans, the total medical
premium costs increase from year-to-year. In addition, because employees pay the difference between
the total premium cost and the City’s contribution, premium increases have a direct effect on your
contribution cost.

The relationship between premiums and plan participant’s use of the plans is important to understand
because plan utilization is a key driver of the premium rates. This means that your decisions as you use
your plan benefits can make a difference.

Use your benefits wisely:
• Be aware of the costs of the services you select
• Use in-network providers when possible
• Choose generic drugs when possible
• Commit to making healthy lifestyle choices to avoid chronic health conditions

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2021 2022 Benefits Guide - City of Avondale
Annual Enrollment Period
The City holds an annual benefits enrollment period prior to the start of each new plan year (typically in
May). This is your one-time opportunity (outside of any mid-year qualifying events) to make changes to
your benefits for the new plan year. Please watch for commination from the HR Department prior to the
new plan year.

What Can I Do During The Annual Enrollment Period?

• Enroll or waive coverage (due to enrollment in other group coverage).
• Change your medical plan or dental/vision plan.
• Add or waive (due to enrollment in other group coverage) medical and/or dental and vision coverage for
  your dependents.
• Apply for supplemental and/or dependent life insurance. Note: Supplemental life insurance takes effect
  after approval from Minnesota Life.

What If I Want To Make A Change Mid-year? (Qualifying Event)
• In accordance with a federal law, which grants the ability for employers to offer non-taxable benefits
  to employees, plan elections are irrevocable for the plan year unless a Qualifying Life Event (QLE) is
  experienced. Requirements of a mid-year change are:
• Requested change must be consistent with the qualifying mid-year event;
• Requested change must meet the guidelines of The City of Avondale contracts/agreements, plan
  documents, and IRC Section 125
• Must be received by HR within 31 days of the qualifying mid-year event.
• To view a summary of the most common qualifying mid-year QLE events, please refer to the Section
  125 Change- of-Status Events and Mid-Year Enrollment Changes matrix on page 10 of this Benefits
  Guide.

Effective Date of Mid-Year Changes
Elections shall be effective prospectively. Generally, elections that add or change coverage will be
effective on the first day of the month following or coinciding with the date the completed online change
and applicable supporting documentation is received by HR. (The exception is that when enrollment is
requested for a marriage or newborn, newly adopted child or child placed for adoption, coverage is
effective When     to Enroll
         on the date   of the event, as long as timely election is made). For New Hires, elections are
effective on the first day of the month following 31 days of employment in a benefits-eligible position.

Elections that cancel or drop coverage will be effective on the last day of the month in which the qualifying
event occurs. If your coverage was terminated or lapsed while on leave, you will need to re-enroll for
coverage through Human Resources upon return from your leave and your coverage will be effective on
the first day of the month following your return from leave. If you are returning from a Military leave of
absence, your benefits will be effective on the date you return from leave. It is the employee’s
responsibility to ensure all benefits are active.

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2021 2022 Benefits Guide - City of Avondale
CHANGE OF STATUS EVENTS AND MID-YEAR ENROLLMENT CHANGES
        Qualifying Event                      Effective Date             Changes / Forms                      You May Make the Following Changes(s)
                                                                              Due
      Marriage or registration                  Date of event            31 days of marriage                                   • Enroll yourself, if applicable
      of domestic partnership                                                                                         •     Enroll your new spouse and other eligible
                                                                                                                                           dependents

           Divorce, legal                First of the month following   31 days of the date of                        • Coverage will terminate for your spouse.
            separation,                     the date of the event       final divorce decree or           •           Enroll yourself and dependent child(ren) if you, or
           or annulment                                                        annulment                               they, were previously enrolled in your spouse’s
                                                                                                                                             plan

         Birth of your child                    Date of event               31 days of birth                                             • Enroll yourself
                                                                                                                                  •     Enroll the newborn child

Adoption, placement for adoption,               Date of event              31 days of event                                              • Enroll yourself
foster child, or legal guardianship                                                                                           •       Enroll the newly adopted child
              of a child

  Your dependent child reaches           First of the month following   Notify within 31 days of                  •        Coverage will terminate for the child who lost
   maximum age for coverage                 the date of the event           loss of eligibility                                eligibility from your health coverage

       Death of your spouse                     Date of event           60 days of spouse’s or                •           Coverage will terminate for the dependent from
        or dependent child                                                dependent’s death                                           your health coverage

A change in employment status in         First of the month following    31)days of change in         •      Enroll yourself, if your employment change results
employment classification or work           the date of the event         employment status                    in you being eligible for a new set of benefits
schedule for you, your spouse, or                                            classification               • Enroll your spouse and other eligible dependents
        dependent child                                                                                                 • Drop health coverage
                                                                                                           • Drop your spouse and other eligible dependents
                                                                                                                         from your health coverage

Change of residence or worksite if       First of the month following    31 days of change in         •               Enroll or drop coverage for yourself, your spouse,
 change impairs ability to access           the date of the event         employment status                                      or covered dependent children
       network providers                                                     classification

  Significant change in or cost of       First of the month following    31 days of effective                     •        Enroll yourself and other eligible dependents
      your or your spouse’s or              the date of the event         date of change in
 dependent’s health coverage due                                              coverage
    to spouse’s or dependent’s
   employment, including open
             enrollment

   Significant change in benefits        First of the month following    31 days of effective                     •        Enroll yourself and other eligible dependents
                                            the date of the event         date of change in
                                                                              coverage

  Spouse or covered dependent            First of the month following   Notify within 31 day of                   •        Drop coverage for yourself, your spouse, or
obtains coverage in another group           the date of the event         gain of coverage                                    • covered dependent children
           health plan

 Loss of other coverage, including       First of the month following   31 days of the date of        •           Enroll yourself, your spouse and eligible dependent
         COBRA coverage                     the date of the event         loss of coverage                                               children

    Spouse’s loss of coverage,           First of the month following   31 days of the date of        •           Enroll your spouse and eligible dependent children
    including COBRA coverage                the date of the event         loss of coverage                    •     Enroll yourself in a health plan if previously not
                                                                                                                   enrolled because you were covered under your
                                                                                                                                      spouse’s plan

   Eligibility for government-           First of the month following    31 days of eligibility       •               Drop coverage for the person who became entitled
sponsored plan, such as Medicare            the date of the event               date                                    to Medicare, Medicaid, other eligible coverage
   (excluding the government
    sponsored Marketplace)

CHIP Special Enrollment – Loss of        First of the month following     60 days of loss of                                   • Enroll yourself, if applicable
eligibility for coverage under a state      the date of the event        eligibility or eligibility            •          Add the person who lost entitlement to CHIP
   Medicaid or CHIP program, or                                                    date                       •           Drop coverage for the person entitled to CHIP
     eligibility for state premium                                                                                                         coverage
assistance under Medicaid or CHIP

 Qualified Medical Support Order         First of the month following      31 days of order                                    • Enroll yourself, if applicable
  affecting a dependent child’s              receipt of the notice                                                    •     Enroll the eligible child named on QMCSO
            coverage

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Benefits Eligibility
To be eligible for medical, dental and vision benefits listed in this Benefits Guide, you must be an
employee scheduled to work a minimum of 30 hours per week on a regular basis. All new employees will
be covered on the first day of the month following 31 days of employment. Coverage will be effective
provided proper enrollment has been made and any required contributions have been authorized.

Dependent Eligibility
If you are eligible to participate in the City-sponsored medical, dental and vision plans, your eligible
dependents may also participate. Your eligible dependents include:
• Your lawfully married spouse
• Your domestic partner who is the same or opposite sex as the eligible employee and who has
   shared a long-term committed relationship with the eligible employee for a minimum of the last
   twelve (12) months. Domestic Partners are only eligible for Medical coverage.
• You or your spouse/Domestic Partner dependents including natural child(ren), legally adopted
   child(ren), child(ren) placed with you for adoption, eligible foster child(ren), or child(ren) under legal
   guardianship substantiated by a court order
• Child(ren) under QMCSO
• Dependent child(ren) over the limiting age who are considered disabled
Eligible dependent child(ren) will be covered through the last day of the month of their 26th
birthday. It is the employee’s responsibility to notify Human Resources of dependent’s age.
Coverage will be terminated once the dependent reaches age 26, unless Human Resources is
notified that the dependent has a qualifying disability.

For Newborn Children
Newborn children must be enrolled in the plan to
receive benefits. Failure to request enrollment for your
newborn within 31 days of the date of birth will result in
your newborn not having coverage from date and time
of birth until the next plan year. You will be liable for any
services and/or expenses incurred for a newborn who
is not timely and properly enrolled.

To enroll your newborn, submit a completed
Election/Change Form to HR within 31 days of the
newborn’s date of birth. If enrollment is requested
timely, coverage will be retroactively effective to
the date of birth. You are encouraged to request
newborn enrollment and submit enrollment paperwork
as soon as possible (and no later than 31 days after
the date of birth) to avoid non-coverage for your
newborn child.

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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona
Health Plans
As an employee, the health benefits available to you represent a significant component of your
compensation package and they provide important protection to keep you and your family in good health.
Eligible employees that elect one of the three medical plans will automatically be enrolled in the
prescription, wellness program, EAP, and telemedicine benefits which are all included in your premiums.

The City of Avondale is pleased to offer you the following medical plans:

• High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) – $2,900/$5,800 Deductible
• Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) - $750/$1,500 Deductible
• Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) - $300/$600 Deductible

You can choose two levels of coverage: Employee Only or Employee + Family.
If you want dependents to be covered, your eligible dependents have to be enrolled in the same medical,
dental and visions plans you select.

All medical plan options are self-funded, meaning the contributions from The City of Avondale and eligible
employees are used to pay plan benefits, including services provided to the members and claims
administration.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ) is the claims administrator and network provider. Plan
members have access to more than 25,100 doctors and specialists that make up a strong local Arizona
network. BCBSAZ has contracted with more than 95% of hospitals in Arizona, including 80 acute care
hospitals. If you use services within the BCBSAZ network, eligible benefits will be paid based on the
benefit level of the plan you chose. If you utilize services outside of the BCBSAZ network, services will be
paid at a Medicare Like Rate and the provider can balance bill you, potentially leaving you with thousands
of dollars owed out-of-pocket.

To find a network provider, visit www.azblue.com/member or call BCBSAZ at 1-844-899-4073.

         When to Enroll

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Blue Cross Blue of Arizona
Health Plans Continued
Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) Plan
The EPO Plan is a network of hospitals, physicians, medical laboratories, and other health care providers
who are located within Arizona and who have agreed to provide medically necessary services and
supplies for favorable negotiated discount fees, applicable only to BCBSAZ members.
Under the EPO plan there is coverage ONLY when you use an EPO provider.
All care in the EPO plan must be obtained within the plan network, unless you have an
emergency. Most doctor office visits are available at a $20 copay and most in-network
preventive services, such as well baby/child visits, immunizations, routine physicals,
mammograms, and routine preventive screenings are covered at no cost. Other in-network
services are covered at 90% after the deductible ($300 per individual or $600 per family) is met.

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Plan
A PPO Plan offers you a choice between an in-network group of providers who offer their services at
discounted rates and out-of-network providers without discounted rates. Under a PPO plan, you may
choose the level of benefits you receive based on the providers you use when you receive care. Keep in
mind that if you choose to use an out-of-network provider you will be subject to a higher deductible and
the provider has the option to balance bill. Most in-network doctor office visits are available at a $25
copay and most in-network preventive services, such as well baby/child visits, immunizations, routine
physicals, mammograms, and routine preventive screenings are covered at no cost. Other in-network
services are covered at 80% after the deductible ($750 per individual or $1,500 per family) is met.

High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)
An HDHP is similar to the PPO plan, in that you can choose between an in-network group of providers
and out-of-network providers. Under the HDHP, you are responsible for payment of all services and
prescriptions until you meet your deductible/maximum out-of-pocket ($2,900 per individual or $5,800 per
family), then eligible services are payable at 100%. In-network preventive services, such as well
baby/child visits, immunizations, routine physicals, mammograms, and routine preventive screenings are
covered at no cost.

Key Items To Consider In Choosing A Medical Plan
 • Compare benefit coverage levels and premium costs carefully to see which option benefits your
   needs.
 • In the PPO and HDHP plans, you may obtain services from either In-Network or Out-of-Network
   providers, but you will pay less out of your own pocket when you use an In-Network provider.
 • In the EPO, all services must be obtained from within the EPO network; there are no Out-of-Network
   benefits except in an emergency.
 • Dependents must be enrolled in the same plan as yourself.
 • Medical plan costs vary based on the plan and coverage you select. (You and the City share the cost
   of the premiums). You pay your share of the cost through payroll deductions for the premiums and
   when you use services, such as when you pay the cost for deductibles, copays, and the coinsurance.

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Medical Plans Summary of Benefits
                                                                                                       Exclusive
                                        High Deductible                Preferred Provider               Provider
                                       Health Plan (HDHP)              Organization (PPO)             Organization
                                                                                                         (EPO)
                                                      Out-of-                            Out-of-       In-Network
                                     In-Network                     In-Network
                                                      Network                            Network          ONLY
 Deductible Per Plan Year
Individual                              $2,900            $5,000        $750              $2,000           $300
Family                                  $5,800            $10,000      $1,500             $4,000           $600
 Out of Pocket Limit
Individual                              $2,900            $10,000      $3,500             $5,000          $2,750
Family                                  $5,800            $20,000      $7,000            $10,000          $5,500
Coinsurance                          0% after ded.       50%        20% after ded.                    10% after ded.
                                                                                          50%
                                                     coinsurance
                                                                                     coinsurance &
Allergy Testing and                                   & balance
                                     0% after ded.                  20% after ded.    balance bill    10% after ded.
Treatment                                                 bill
Hearing Aid Benefit                              $1,000                         $1,000                    $1,000
Genetic Testing
                                     0% after ded.                  20% after ded.                    10% after ded.
(Limitations Apply)
Chemotherapy
                                     0% after ded.                  20% after ded.                    10% after ded.
(Outpatient)                                             50%
                                                                                          50%
Chiropractic Care/Spinal                             coinsurance
                                                                                     coinsurance &
Manipulation                         0% after ded.    & balance      $45 Copay                          $40 Copay
                                                                                      balance bill
Plan year Maximum Benefit                                 bill
                                                                      Office Visit
Diagnostic Testing, X-Ray                                                                            Office Visit Copay
                                     0% after ded.                    Copay or
& Lab Service                                                                                        or 10% after ded.
                                                                    20% after ded.
Preventive Care
(Includes the office visit and
any other eligible item or
                                     0% after ded.                    $0 Copay                           $0 Copay
service billed and received at
the same time as any                                     50%
preventive service)                                                                       50%
                                                     coinsurance
                                                                                     coinsurance &
Primary Care Physician               0% after ded.    & balance      $25 Copay                          $20 Copay
                                                                                      balance bill
                                                          bill
Specialist                           0% after ded.                   $45 Copay                          $40 Copay
Urgent Care Facility
Copay applies per visit regardless   0% after ded.                   $50 Copay                          $50 Copay
of what services are rendered
                                                                                                      $300 Copay,
                                                                           $300 Copay,
                                                                                                       Ded. + 10%
Emergency Room                              0% after ded.                   Ded. + 20%
                                                                                                      Copay waived
                                                                      Copay waived if admitted
                                                                                                        if admitted
Ambulance Services                          0% after ded.                  20% after ded.             10% after ded.

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Medical Plans Summary of Benefits Continued
                                                                                             Exclusive
                                 High Deductible               Preferred Provider             Provider
                                Health Plan (HDHP)             Organization (PPO)           Organization
                                                                                               (EPO)
                                               Out-of-                        Out-of-        In-Network
                              In-Network                    In-Network
                                               Network                        Network           ONLY

                              0% after ded.                 20% after ded.                  10% after ded.
Home Health Care
                                60 Days                       60 Days                         60 Days

                              0% after ded.                 20% after ded.                  10% after ded.
Hospice Care
                               6 Months                       6 Months                        6 Months

Hospital Expenses or          0% after ded.                 20% after ded.                  10% after ded.
Long- Term Acute                60 Days                       60 Days                         60 Days

Maternity
First Visit
(PCP / Specialist)            0% after ded.                   $25 /$45                        $20 / $40
Prenatal & Postnatal Care     0% after ded.                 20% after ded.                  10% after ded.
Delivery Charges              0% after ded.       50%       20% after ded.                  10% after ded.
                                                                                 50%
                                              coinsurance
                                                                             coinsurance
                                               & balance
                                                                              & balance
Mental Health/Substance                            bill       Office Visit        bill     Office Visit Copay
Abuse Disorders               0% after ded.                   Copay or
                                                                                           or 10% after ded.
Inpatient /Outpatient                                       20% after ded.

Physician Office Surgery      0% after ded.                 20% after ded.                  10% after ded.

Radiation Therapy
                              0% after ded.                 20% after ded.                  10% after ded.
(Outpatient)
Skilled Nursing Facility
                              0% after ded.                 20% after ded.                  10% after ded.
and Rehabilitation Facility
                                60 Visits                     60 Visits                       60 Visits
Plan Year Maximum Benefit

All Other Eligible Medical
                              0% after ded.                 20% after ded.                  10% after ded.
Expenses

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Prescription Plans Summary
                                   High Deductible              Preferred Provider           Exclusive Provider
                                  Health Plan (HDHP)            Organization (PPO)           Organization (EPO)
     Retail Pharmacy:
      30- Day Supply

    Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3:                                         $15, $35, $55                $15, $35, $55
     Retail Pharmacy:
      90- Day Supply
                                    No Charge after
   Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3:          Deductible is Met               $30,$80,$130                 $30,$80,$130
  Mail Order Pharmacy:
     90- Day Supply

    Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3:                                         $30,$80,$130                 $30,$80,$130
       Specialty RX                                               20% to Max $300              20% to Max $300
      Out Of Pocket                                            $3,600 per participant        $4,100 per participant
                                            N/A
       Maximum                                                   $7,200 per family             $8,200 per family
Note: Members pays the network pharmacy copay plus the difference between the non-network and network pharmacy amount

Prescription Coverage
When you elect medical coverage, you are automatically enrolled to receive prescription drug
benefits.

Retail Program
You have access to a large national network of retail pharmacies where you can have your prescriptions
filled for a 30-day supply of medication. The amount you will be required to pay for the cost of your
medication will depend upon the level/tier the prescription falls under. You can locate participating
pharmacies and check the prescription level/tier anytime at www.azblue.com/member.

90 Day Retail Program
Many members require maintenance medications for conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure,
asthma, etc. For these members, Blue Cross Blue Shield of AZ contracted pharmacies provide 90 days
worth of medication at one fill.

Mail Order Program
Blue Cross Blue Shield of AZ also offers members a mail order program for filling maintenance
medications through Optum RX. Members are able to receive a 90-day supply of medications mailed to
their home for a reduced copayment. Access by Logging into www.azblue.com/member. Click on Plan
Benefits and select Mail Order under Pharmacy Benefits or call the Pharmacy Benefits number on the
back of your member ID card or Mail your completed order form and prescription to the address on the
Mail Order form.

Dispense as Written Penalty
Members who choose a brand name medication when a generic is available will be subject to a penalty
equivalent to the cost difference between the generic and brand.

                                                                                                                    15
Blue Cross of Arizona’s
24-Hour Health Line
Using one toll-free number, you and your family can
speak with Registered Nurses for health-related adult
and pediatric issues and get help making informed
healthcare decisions. Nurses can also assist callers
                                                                                                            24/7
                                                                                                            ACCESS
with choosing appropriate medical care and preparing
questions to discuss with your physician about
treatment plans. When appropriate, the nurses will
suggest care either through self-care techniques, a
provider appointment or, if needed, a visit to the urgent
care or emergency room.
     Information Line 1-866-422-2729
BlueCare Anywhere
The City of Avondale offers Telehealth to all employees
who are enrolled in one of The City of Avondale medical              www.BlueCareAnywhereAz.com
plans through BlueCare Anywhere. BlueCare Anywhere                         PPO Network Plans:
provides consultations with board-certified, currently                     • Medical: $10
practicing medical providers for common illnesses,                         • Counseling/ Psychiatry $20
assessments, evaluations and treatment, including                         HDHP Plan:
prescription support. Employees can use this web-                         • Medical: $59
based service from home, from the office, or while                        • Psychiatry: $199 initial visit, $95 Follow-up
traveling. Employees can visit with a doctor, counselor                   • Counseling: $99 at Doctorate Level, $85 at
or psychiatrist any day, anytime from their smartphone,                     Masters Level
computer, or tablet.
The services available through BlueCare Anywhere include the following:
MEDICAL
Board-certified doctors provide immediate care for a range of common illnesses,aches and pains as well as
prescribing medication.
                     Colds                    Bronchitis               Sore Throat            Ear Infection Migraines
                     Flu                      Rash                     Diarrhea               Sprains
                     Fever                    Abdominal Pain            Vomiting              Strains
                     Cough                    Sinus Infection           Pink Eye
COUNSELING
A certified psychologist or counselor is available to treat issues affecting emotional, psychological and social well-
being.               Anxiety                  Panic attacks            PTSD trauma             Bereavement/grief
                     Stress management        Social anxiety           Insomnia                Couples counseling
                     OCD                      LGBTQ counseling         Depression              Life transitions
PSYCHIATRY
On demand or by appointment, board-certified psychiatrists are available for assessments, evaluation and
treatment, including prescription support.
                     Anorexia              Social anxiety             OCD                     Depression
                     Bulimia                Anxiety disorders         PTSD                     Panic attacks
                     Insomnia              Cognitive disorders        Bipolar disorder        General anxiety

                                                                                                                         16
Medical Plan Resources
MyBlue                                                     Preventive Care
www.azblue.com/member                                      All the medical plans cover In-Network
Once you receive your ID card, you can register            preventive care at 100% (no deductible applies).
on the member portal to check claims status and            This includes routine health care services to
details, track deductibles, review benefits online,         maintain your health and prevent disease,
compare hospitals and contracted health care               including services such as annual physical
providers by name, specialty or location.                  exams, well-woman exams and certain
                                                           immunizations. Services received at out-of-
Mobile App                                                 network providers are subject to the out-of-
                                                           network deductible.
Search “MyBlue AZ” in your app store and
download it for quick, simple access to your               What isn’t a Preventive Care
personalized benefit information and ID Card.               If abnormal test results or a diagnosis is
You can also search providers, check your                  determined during a preventive care service the
symptoms and call Nurse on Call at the tap of a            visit would be considered diagnostic, not
button. Available at Google Play™ and the App              preventive. An example of diagnostic care would
Store™.                                                    be having a polyp removed during a
                                                           colonoscopy.
Healthy Blue
Login to the MyBlue member portal to receive the health related tools, resources and services listed below

• Healthy Blue Beginnings: Provides pregnancy education and support.
• Help with Prescriptions: Search MyBlue for cost comparisons or call (602) 864-4400 or (800) 232-2345
• Blue 365 Discounts: Exclusive to members with deals designed to help live a healthier life.
• Provides access to discounts on a broad range of products and services such as: fitness, nutrition,
  vision, hearing, alternative medicine, Jenny Craig, SNAP Fitness, and more. Treatment Cost Estimator:
  Life has enough surprises.
• Why should medical bills be one of them? Blue Cross® Blue Shield® of Arizona's online Treatment
  Cost Estimator can help you avoid those types of surprises.
• Use this tool before getting care to help you make an informed decision about many common medical
  tests and procedures. Login to your MyBlue account to utilize the tool.

Sharecare
    Blue Cross® Blue Shield® of Arizona has partnered with Sharecare to provide you simple tools to
    manage all your health and wellness needs in one place. You’ll start by taking the RealAge health
    assessment to get a measure of the true age of your body in terms of health and vitality, versus your
    calendar age. The program then delivers personalized insights, challenges, daily tracking, and one-of-a-
    kind tools to help you reduce your RealAge and live healthier, no matter where you are in your health
    journey. Learn what you need to be healthier with tips on how to eat better, exercise smarter, reduce
    stress, and more.

    It’s time to meet the healthier YOU. To get started, visit azblue.sharecare.com.

                                                                                                              17
Employee Assistance Program
Life presents us with challenges at work and at home on a daily basis. You do not have to face these
challenges alone, even if you’re far away.
The EAP Can Help with Almost Any Issue
EAP benefits are available to all employees and their families at NO COST to you. Help is just a phone call
away. The EAP offers confidential advice, support, and practical solutions to real-life issues. You can
access these confidential services by calling the toll-free number and speaking with a consultant.

EAP Services for Employees and Families
 • Confidential Counseling: Up to 6 face-to-face, video or telephonic counseling sessions for
   relationship and family issues, stress, anxiety, and other common challenges.
 • Tess, AI Chat-bot: 24/7 chatbot for emotional support and check-ins to boost wellness. You can text
   “Hi” to +1 650 825 9634 to get started.
 • 24-hour Crisis Help: Toll-free access for you or a family member experiencing a crisis.
 • Peer Support Groups: Online support groups for addiction, depression, bipolar and anxiety.

Your EAP provides a wide range of work-life balance services
 • Such as: Childcare Services, Legal Services, Home Ownership Program, Adult and Eldercare Services,
   Financial Help, College Planning Program, Online Legal Forms, Mediation Services, & Identity Theft
   Services

                                                                   Call: 800-395-1616

                                                                       Visit the Website:
                                                                 ibhsolutions.com/members:
                                                                    Access life-balance and
                                                                  wellbeing resources, monthly
                                                                   webinars, newsletters, and
                                                                              more.
                                                                     Username: IBHEAP
                                                                     Password: WL0103a

                                                                 Download the EAP App:
                                                                 Easy access to information
                                                                  about the EAP, upcoming
                                                                    Events and resources
                                                                   (search for “IBHMobile”
                                                                      in the App Store).

                                                                                                        18
Dental Benefits
Dental is an important part of your benefits package and regular dental care is key to
your overall health. The City is pleased to offer a dental plan administered through Delta
Dental of Arizona.
Delta Dental is the country’s largest dental network, with more than four out of five of the nation’s dentists
participating. Participating dentists have agreed to accept pre-negotiated fees for dental procedures and
are prohibited from billing a patient above the predetermined amount (balance billing). This arrangement
results in protection and savings for patients.

Always request a pre-treatment estimate from your dentist before having major dental work done. Don’t be
afraid to ask questions! Do not agree to any treatment unless you fully understand what condition is being
treated, why it is being treated, and the costs of that treatment. When in doubt, contact Delta Dental.

To learn more about Delta Dental, visit www.deltadentalaz.com or call 800.352.6132.

                 Covered Services                                 PPO Plus Premier Out-of-Network
 Benefit Coverage                                                        Delta Dental PPO & Premier Dentist
 Contract Year - Individual /Family Deductible                                            $50/$150
 Contract Year - Maximum Benefit                                                          $4,000
 Lifetime Orthodontia Maximum                                                      Adult & Child $2,000
 Preventive Services
 •   Exams
 •   Routine Cleanings
 •   Fluoride: For children to age 18                                         100%                        80%
 •   Sealants: For children up to age 19
 •   X-Rays
 •   Space Maintainers
 Basic Services
 •   Fillings
 •   Stainless Steel Crowns
 •   Emergency Treatment                                                     80%**                        60%
 •   Endodontics: Root Canal Treatment
 •   Periodontics: Treatment of gum disease
 •   Oral Surgery: Simple and Surgical extractions
 Major Services
 •   Prosthodontics: Bridges, partial/complete dentures
 •   Bridge and Denture Repair                                               50%**                        40%
 •   Implants
 •   Restorative: Crowns and onlays
 Orthodontia                                                                  50%                         50%
 • Benefit for adults and children 8+
 *Members may incur higher out-of-pocket costs when seeing a Premier or out-of-network dentist.
**Deductible applies to these services.

                                                                                                                19
Vision Benefits
 Vision coverage is provided as a part of your health benefits package through Avesis. Under the plan, you
 can seek care from any licensed optometrist, ophthalmologist, or dispensing optician. However, the plan
 pays more when you use an Avesis provider.

 Manage your benefits through the Member Portal. Go to www.avesis.com and click Members. Register
 using your name and date of birth to access everything you need such as:

 •   Print ID Cards
 •   See Claims Status
 •   View Benefit Summaries
 •   Check Eligibility
 •   Search for Providers
 •   Nominate Providers

 Vision at a Distance – update your look from the comfort of your home. Introducing Avesis Vision
 Delivered. Shop online using your in-network benefits-no claim form required.
 When you need to see an eye care professional, simply visit www.avesis.com or contact Avesis Customer
                  Care Center Monday – Friday, 7am to 8pm (EST) at 855-214-6777

                                                   In-Network                   Out-of-Network
Vision Care Services
Vision Examination
                                      Covered in full after $10 copay                      Up to $45
(includes Retraction)
Contact Lens Fit and Follow-Up
                                                 Up to $50 member
Standard Contact Lens Fitting                                                                 N/A
                                               out-of-pocket maximum
                                                 Up to $75 member
Custom Contact Lens Fitting                                                                   N/A
                                               out-of-pocket maximum
Materials                                             $10 copay
Frame Allowance                                    $225 allowance                          Up to $70
Standard Spectacle Lenses
Single Vision                              Covered in full after $10 copay                 Up to $30
Bifocal                                    Covered in full after $10 copay                 Up to $50
Trifocal                                   Covered in full after $10 copay                 Up to $65
Lenticular                                 Covered in full after $10 copay                 Up to $80
Contact Lenses (In lieu of frame and spectacle lenses)
Elective                                           $175 allowance                          Up to $148
Medically Necessary                                Covered in Full                         Up to $250
Retractive Laser Surgery                                 Onetime/lifetime $150 allowance
                        Eye Examination/ Lenses or Contact Lenses/ Frames: 12/12/12

                                                                                                        20
Basic and Supplemental Life and AD&D Insurance
• Basic Life Insurance, Accidental Death & Disability (AD&D), and Supplemental Life Insurance are
  insured by Minnesota Life.
• All benefit-eligible employees receive Basic Life Insurance and AD&D benefits paid by the City.
• All benefit-eligible employees may also purchase Supplemental Life Insurance coverage and AD&D.
                       Basic Life and AD&D Insurance - 100% Paid by the City
                                                                   2x Annual Salary
                       Employee                                Up to $200,000 maximum
                      Dependent                                    $5,000 spouse
                         Life                               $2,500 children (up to age 26)

• Guarantee issue is the amount of supplemental life insurance that you are automatically approved for.
• Evidence of Insurability (EOI) is required for elections above the guaranteed amounts.
• Supplemental Life insurance packets can be found on SharePoint at https://avondaleaz.sharepoint.com
  (Internal City site) or send an email request to HR at HR-Benefits@avondaleaz.gov

                             Elect Supplemental Coverage – Employee Paid
        Employee
                                   Elect up to $750,000 maximum                           Elect in $10,000 increments
        Term Life
                                   Elect up to $250,000 maximum
          Spouse                     Not to exceed 100% of the
                                                                                           Elect in $5,000 increments
         Term Life                employee’s total basic & supp life
                                               coverage
           Child                 Elect $2,500 increments to $10,000                   One premium insures all eligible
         Term Life                            or $15,000                              children from live birth to age 26
                                                                                          Elect $10,000 increments
   Voluntary AD&D
                                   Elect up to $500,000 maximum                     Family benefits is a percentage of the
  Employee or Family
                                                                                     employee’s elected AD&D amount
  Note: If your spouse or child is eligible for employee coverage, they cannot be covered as a dependent. Only one employee may cover
  a dependent child. It is the employee’s responsibility to notify their employer when dependents are no longer eligible for coverage.
  *Coverage reduces to 50% at age 75 (see certificate for details).

Newly Hired Employees
A special guaranteed issue opportunity is available for newly hired employees during their initial 31-day
enrollment period. No evidence of insurability is required for the following guaranteed amounts:
• Employee- up to $250,000
• Souse – up to $30,000
• Child – all coverage
• Voluntary AD&D – all coverage
Evidence of insurability is required for elections above the guaranteed amounts.

                                                                                                                                     21
Supplemental Life and AD&D Insurance
 Employee or Spouse Supplemental Life Insurance Cost
                                                                                  Additional Features
               2021-2022 Employee and Spouse
                    Supplemental Term Life                           • Waiver of Premium: If you become
                                                                       totally and permanently disabled,
   Age        Employee Rate/$1,000          Spouse Rate/$1,000         according to the terms of your
Tax Free Savings for Medical Expenses
Health Savings Account (HSA)
What is an HSA?
An HSA is an individual savings account that can be used to pay for qualified medical expenses. The
HDHP option allows you to open an HSA and take advantage of terrific tax savings. The money in your
account accumulates on a tax-deferred basis and can be rolled over from year to year. You can save your
money for future medical expenses, and as long as you use the money for a qualified medical expense,
your funds are never taxed. This account is only available if you select the High-Deductible Health Plan
(HDHP). A participant cannot contribute to an HSA if they are covered on any other non-qualified plan,
are covered as a dependent on another person’s tax return (excluding spouses).

How Does an HSA Work?
A High-Deductible Health Plan offers a lower monthly premium in exchange for a higher deductible. The
money you would normally spend on monthly premiums can now be contributed on a pre-tax basis to
your HSA account. You will receive a debit card to use for qualified medical expenses, which will draw
from your HSA. Distributions from your HSA are tax-free when used to pay for qualified medical
expenses. The 2021 maximum contribution for single coverage is $3,600, and family is $7,200. HSA
participants who are 55 or older can contribute an additional $1,000, or $4,600 for single coverage and
$8,200 for family coverage. The City of Avondale uses Health Equity for all HSA accounts. Please note,
HSA accounts operate on a calendar-year basis. A participant can elect to contribute the maximum
amount from July 1, 2021 - December 31, 2021; however, to avoid tax issues, the individual must remain
on the HDHP through the full plan year following elections. If you would like to change your deduction,
see Human Resources for the form. Please make sure to consider that the contributions that the City
makes to your HSA account toward the maximum contribution.

What is considered a “Qualified Medical Expense”?
Some of the most common expenses include:
 • Deductible         • Contact lenses             • Eyeglasses       • Over-the-counter medications
 • LASIK surgery      • Office visit co-pays       • Dental treatment • Hospital Services
 • Prescription drugs • Chiropractor visits        • Vaccinations     • Insurance Premiums

*You should refer to www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p502.pdf for a full list of qualified expenses. If HSA funds are
used for non-qualified medical expenses, those purchases are subject to a 10% penalty tax and will be
considered income for tax purposes.

What are the eligibility requirements for an HSA?
The eligibility requirements to open and contribute to a health savings account (HSA) are mandated by
the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), not by your employer. Individuals who enroll in a Health Savings
Account (HSA) but are later determined to be ineligible for that account are subject to financial penalties
from the IRS. It is an individual’s responsibility to ensure that he/she meets the eligibility requirements to
open an HSA and to have contributions made to that HSA, as outlined below:

•To be eligible to open an HSA and have contributions made to the HSA during the year, an individual
must be covered by an HSA-qualified health plan (HDHP) and must not be covered by other health
insurance that is not an HSA-qualified plan.

                                                                                                            23
Tax Free Savings for Medical
Expenses Continued
IMPORTANT: Individuals enrolled in Medicare are not eligible to open an HSA or have
contributions made to the HSA during the year.
If you think you could become eligible for Medicare in the next 12 months, you should consider whether
enrolling in the medical plan that is paired with a health savings account is a wise choice.
• You may not be claimed as a dependent on someone else's tax return.
• Individuals may not open an HSA, or have contributions made to the HSA during the year, if a spouse’s
    health insurance, Health Care Flexible Spending Account (Health Care FSA) or health reimbursement
    arrangement (HRA) can pay for any of the individual’s medical expenses before the HSA-qualified plan
    deductible is met. This means that a standard general-purpose Health Care FSA may make you
    ineligible to open an HSA and have contributions made to the HSA during the year.
• If an individual received any health benefits from the Veterans Administration (or one of its facilities)—
    including prescription drugs— in the three months prior, he or she is not eligible to open an HSA and
    have contributions made to the HSA during the year.

 What are the benefits of an HSA?
 • The contributions are 100% tax-
   deductible. The fund grows tax-deferred.
 • The money withdrawn for qualified
   medical expenses is tax-free. The
   money you put in can reduce your
   taxable income.
 • You can roll the savings over from year
   to year.
 • Your HSA is portable and can move with
   you from job to job.
 • After age 65, you can use your HSA
   account to pay Medicare premiums,
   deductibles, co-pays, and coinsurance
   under any part of Medicare.

How do I pay the bill at my doctor’s office with an HSA?
Health Equity offers a debit card for convenient access to your money as well as online banking tools

If you have an HSA, it is important not to overpay for medical expenses. Since you’re paying “cash” from
your HSA, if you pay the entire bill up front, you may be paying too much, since network discounts would
not have been applied. For example, most claims must be re-priced before you know what you owe. If
you pay cash at the time of service, you could be paying before the network discounts are applied. This
may pose a problem if you are reimbursed by your physician’s office, because you have technically made
an unqualified withdrawal from your HSA. We strongly suggest you wait until you receive your Explanation
of Benefits (EOB) before paying the provider.

For questions, contact Health Equity at 866-960-8026 or online at www.healthequity.com.

                                                                                                          24
Flexible Spending Accounts

 Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA’s) are now available through Health Equity to help you pay for a variety
 of out-of-pocket health care and/or dependent care expenses with pre-tax dollars. These accounts are
 100% funded by you through pre-tax payroll deductions (based on 26 pay periods). Please note these
 plans are regulated by IRS Guidelines and receipts are required.

 Things to Consider Before Contributing to an FSA
• You cannot stop or change your FSA contribution(s) during the calendar year unless you experience a
  qualifying event.
• You cannot take income tax deductions for expenses you pay with your FSA(s).
• These are all separate accounts so money cannot be transferred between accounts.

 Health Care FSA
 Maximum Contribution for 2021 – $2,750
 • You do not need to be enrolled in a medical plan to participate; however, if you are enrolled in the
   HDHP with HSA, you may only participate in the Limited Purpose Healthcare FSA.
 • Pay for qualified medical expenses as defined IRS Publication 502
 • Can be used for you and/or an eligible dependent; even if they are not covered on your medical plan.
 • Your annual contribution is available on day one of the plan.
 • Active participants in a Health Care FSA and Healthcare FSA Limited Purpose can carry over up to
   $500 in unused money at the end of the plan year to be used to reimburse expenses incurred in the
   following plan year. The carry-over does not count toward the Annual Maximum Limit.

Health Care FSA Limited Purpose (LPFSA)
For those enrolled in the HDHP Plan your HSA will be used to pay for all medical related expenses,
therefore, you are eligible to enroll in a LPFSA to pay for eligible dental and vision expenses, thereby
preserving your HSA funds for savings and investment opportunities.

Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA)
$5,000 (Single or Married/Joint tax return) $2,500 (Married/ separate returns)
Employees may also elect to participate in the DCFSA account which allows you to pay for dependent
care expenses with tax-free dollars for eligible dependents. The maximum contribution amounts are
$5,000 or $2,500 if married and filing separate. Dependent Daycare eligible expenses are for children
under the age of 13 and dependents of any age who are physically or mentally unable to care for
themselves. By enrolling in this plan, you save money on daycare expenses incurred so that you (and
your spouse, if married) can work, look for work, or attend school on a full-time basis. This account is Use
it or Lost it; unused funds will be forfeited at the end of the year or upon separation from The City of
Avondale and will not carryover.

           Health Equity administers all of the Flexible Spending Accounts and can be reached
                     by calling at 866.960.8026 or online at www.healthequity.com.

                                                                                                         25
Customer Service Support
If you have specific questions related to your benefits enrollment, contact Human Resources at
623.333.2200. Need help or have questions about your coverage, claims, etc.? Contact any of the
vendors below for assistance.

       Benefits                       Carriers                            Contact
                                                                         Website:
                                      Medical                          www.azblue.com

                                   Group #040329                       Phone Number:
                                                                       1-844-899-4073
                                                                          Website:
                                                                     www.healthequity.com
                              Health Savings Account
                            Flexible Spending Accounts                 Phone Number:
                                                                        866-960-8026
                                                                         Website:
                                                                    www.deltadentalaz.com
                                       Dental
                                                                       Phone Number:
                                    Group #5476
                                                                    602-938-3131 (option 1)
                                                                    800-352-6132 (option 1)
                                                                         Website:
                                       Vision                          www.avesis.com

                                 Group #30781-1254                     Phone Number:
                                                                        800-828-9341
                                                                         Website:
                              Employer Life Insurance                 www.securian.com

                                   Voluntary Life                      Phone Number:
                                    Group #34489                        651-665-3789
                                                                        800-392-7295
                           Employee Assistance Program                     Website:
                                  Click on the IBH logo          www.ibhsolutions.com/members
                                  • Username: IBHEAP
                                  • Password: WL0103                   Phone Number:
                                                                        800-395-1616
                             • Click the My Benefits button

                                                                            Website:
                                     Sharecare
                                                                  https://azblue.sharecare.com

                                                                          Website:
                                                                 www.bluecareanywhereaz.com
                                BlueCare Anywhere
                                                                       Phone Number:
                                                                        844-606-1612

                                                                                                 26
Required Notices
IMPORTANT NOTICE FROM The City of Avondale ABOUT YOUR PRESCRIPTION DRUG COVERAGE AND
MEDICARE – YOUR MEDICARE PART D NOTICE
Please read this notice carefully and keep it where you can find it. This notice has information about your current
prescription drug coverage with The City of Avondale and about your options under Medicare’s prescription drug
coverage. This information can help you decide whether or not you want to join a Medicare drug plan. Information
about where you can get help to make decisions about your prescription drug coverage is at the end of this notice.

There are four important things you need to know about the current coverage and Medicare’s prescription drug
coverage:

1. Medicare prescription drug coverage became available in 2006 to everyone with Medicare. You can get this
   coverage if you join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan or join a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or
   PPO) that offers prescription drug coverage. All Medicare drug plans provide at least a standard level of
   coverage set by Medicare. Some plans may also offer more coverage for a higher monthly premium.
2. The City of Avondale has determined that the prescription drug coverage offered under the Exclusive Provider
   Organization (EPO), and Preferred Provider Organization plans are, on average for all plan participants,
   expected to pay out as much as standard Medicare prescription drug coverage pays and is therefore
   considered Creditable Coverage. Because your existing coverage is Creditable Coverage, you can keep this
   coverage and not pay a higher premium (a penalty) if you later decide to join a Medicare drug plan.
3. The City of Avondale has determined that the prescription drug coverage offered under the High Deductible
   Health Plan is, on average for all plan participants, NOT expected to pay out as much as standard Medicare
   prescription drug coverage pays. Therefore, your coverage is considered Non-Creditable Coverage. This is
   important because, most likely, you will get more help with your drug costs if you join a Medicare drug plan,
   than if you only have prescription drug coverage from The City of Avondale. This is also important because it
   may mean that you may pay a higher premium (a penalty) if you do not join a Medicare drug plan when you first
   become eligible.
      • You can keep your current coverage from The City of Avondale. However, because your coverage is
          non-creditable, you have decisions to make about Medicare prescription drug coverage that may affect
          how much you pay for that coverage, depending on if and when you join a drug plan. When you make
          your decision, you should compare your current coverage, including what drugs are covered, with the
          coverage and cost of the plans offering Medicare prescription drug coverage in your area. Read this
          notice carefully – it explains your options.

When Can You Join a Medicare Drug Program?
 You can join a Medicare drug plan when you first become eligible for Medicare and each year from October 15th
to December 7th. However, if you lose your current creditable prescription drug coverage, through no fault of your
own, you will also be eligible for a two (2) month Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to join a Medicare drug plan.
When Will You Pay A Higher Premium (Penalty) To Join a Medicare Drug Plan?
You should also know that if you drop or lose your current coverage with The City of Avondale and don’t join a
Medicare drug plan within 63 continuous days after your current coverage ends, you may pay a higher premium (a
penalty) to join a Medicare drug plan later.

If you go 63 continuous days or longer without creditable prescription drug coverage, your monthly premium may
go up by at least 1% of the Medicare base beneficiary premium per month for every month that you did not have
that coverage. For example, if you go 19 months without creditable coverage, your premium may consistently be
at least 19% higher than the Medicare base beneficiary premium. You may have to pay this higher premium (a
penalty) as long as you have Medicare prescription drug coverage. In addition, you may have to wait until the
following October to join.

                                                                                                                27
Required Notices
What Happens to Your Current Coverage If You Decide to Join a Medicare Drug Plan?
If you decide to join a Medicare drug plan, your current coverage with The City of Avondale will not be affected.
Your current medical coverage with The City of Avondale pays for other health expenses in addition to prescription
drugs. If you enroll in a Medicare drug plan, you will still be eligible to receive medical and prescription drug
benefits through The City of Avondale. If you do enroll in a Medicare drug plan, in general, the following guidelines
apply:

• If you are an active employee, or the covered dependent of an active employee, you are required to obtain your
  outpatient prescription drug benefits through The City of Avondale plan first. You can then file on a secondary
  basis with your Medicare drug plan.

• If you are a COBRA participant, or the covered dependent of a COBRA participant, you are required to obtain
  your outpatient prescription drugs through your Medicare drug plan first. Secondary coverage is not available
  through The City of Avondale.

Important: You can only waive prescription drug coverage by waiving the entire medical/prescription plan coverage
for yourself and your dependents with The City of Avondale. Remember, if you do waive The City of Avondale
coverage, active employees can only re-enroll in the medical/prescription combined plan during the next Open
Enrollment Period.

For More Information About This Notice or Your Current Prescription Drug Coverage…
Contact the person listed below for further information. NOTE: You’ll get this notice each year. You will also get it
before the next period you can join a Medicare drug plan and if this coverage through The City of Avondale
changes. You may also request a copy of this notice at any time.

For More Information About Your Options Under Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage…
More detailed information about Medicare plans that offer prescription drug coverage is in the “Medicare & You”
handbook. You’ll get a copy of the handbook in the mail every year from Medicare. You may also be contacted
directly by Medicare drug plans.
For more information about Medicare prescription drug coverage:

•   Visit www.medicare.gov/
•   Call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (see the inside back cover of your copy of the
•   “Medicare & You” handbook for their telephone number) for personalized help
•   Call 800.MEDICARE (800.633.4227). TTY users should call 877.486.2048.

If you have limited income and resources, extra help paying for Medicare prescription drug coverage is available.
For information about this extra help, visit Social Security on the web at www.socialsecurity.gov or call them at
800.772.1213 (TTY 800.325.0778).

Name of Entity/Sender: The City of Avondale
Contact Person: HR
Phone Number: 623-333-2220

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