Reminder: Deductible and Out-of-Pocket Credit Available for New Groups

QualChoice makes it easy to switch! New groups enrolling in QualChoice have the option to receive deductible and out-of-pocket credit — meaning they won’t lose any of the progress made toward meeting their deductible or reaching their out-of-pocket maximum.

Taking advantage of this offer is easy. Groups choosing to participate simply need to submit Explanation of Benefits (EOB) forms or a deductible and out-of-pocket accumulation report from their prior insurance carrier within 60 days of their QualChoice plan’s effective date. Once we receive EOBs or an accumulation report, we can credit any deductible or out-of-pocket amounts accumulated for the current year. This ensures your group won’t lose any deductible or out-of-pocket accruals and will get the benefit of our robust provider network and great member service — without having to wait.

For more information, contact your Regional Sales Manager or Account Service Rep (PDF).

IRS Releases 2024 HDHP & HSA Limits

On May 16, 2023, the IRS released Rev. Proc. 2023-23, which outlines the inflation-adjusted amounts for 2024 for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and high deductible health plans (HDHPs). 

• The annual HSA contribution limit for 2024 increases to $4,150 (self-only) and $8,300 (family).
• The HSA catch-up contributions remain the same at $1000.
• The minimum annual HDHP deductible is $1,600 (self-only) and $3,200 (family), up from $1,500 (self-only) and $3,000 (family) in 2023.
• The maximum out of pocket for HDHP in 2024 is $8,050 (self-only) and $16,100 (family), up from $7,500 (self-only) and $15,000 (family) in 2023.

IRS Form 5500 Due July 31 for Calendar Year Plans

Employee health plan administrators with at least 100 participants must file an IRS Form 5500 annually by the last day of the seventh month after the end of the plan year. Plan sponsors with calendar year plans must file by July 31 each year.

Plan sponsors may file an extension, which delays the annual filing deadline for calendar year plans to October 15. 

Learn more about filing Form 5500.

IRS Memorandum on FSA Claim Substantiation

On April 28, 2023, the IRS issued a memorandum (TAM 202317020) from the Office of Chief Counsel addressing claims substantiation requirements for reimbursement of medical and dependent care expenses from health flexible spending accounts (FSA) or dependent care assistance programs (DCAP).

This memo is important for FSA and DCAP plan administrators because it confirms the IRS’ position that all medical and dependent care claims must be properly substantiated to avoid major tax penalties resulting from non-compliant plans. 

June is Men’s Health Awareness Month 

Men’s Health Month is observed in June to raise awareness of preventable health problems and to encourage early detection and treatment of diseases including cancer, heart disease, and depression.

Many of men’s health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, can often be avoided by being proactive and living a healthy lifestyle. QualChoice Health Insurance offers these tips for helping men make healthier choices.

QCARE Post-Discharge Care

Studies show that many patients forget most of what they’ve been told by the time they get home! This can lead to new medical problems. Our Post-Discharge Outreach* program helps make sure our members’ health care needs are met even after they leave the hospital.

With the Post-Discharge Outreach program, our care managers can:

• Reduce member anxiety
• Help the member understand and follow their discharge plan
• Help communicate with the doctor
• Spot potential problems

To reduce repeat hospital stays, we target members who may be at risk and call them after they leave the hospital. Those at risk include patients with a complex discharge plan, past repeat stays, or frequent emergency use.

Post-Discharge Care Program Overview (PDF)

*NOTE: Programs vary by employer group and benefit plan. Members should check with their benefits administrator.

Holiday Closure

Our offices will be closed on Tuesday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day.