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Earlier this week we sent out an Employer Quick Mail requesting your feedback. If you haven’t already done so, please take a moment to go to the survey and complete it by answering one brief question. There is also an option to provide any additional details you would like to share about what we are doing well or if there are areas where we can improve. Your input is essential in helping us further our mission of providing the highest level of service to you, our valued employers and groups.

Tips for Effective Open Enrollment Communications

Effective open enrollment communication is crucial for employee engagement and ensuring they make informed benefit choices. To maximize participation, employers should utilize multiple channels, personalize messages, and communicate early and often. 

Consider these key strategies in preparing an open enrollment communication plan:

• Start Early: Announce the open enrollment period well in advance and provide summaries of benefits and any changes from the previous year, giving employees ample time to consider their options. 
• Stay Compliant: Review federal and state laws governing employer-offered benefits and health coverage, like the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to name a few.
• Utilize Multiple Channels: Don't rely solely on email. Consider intranet posts, SMS, digital signage, webinars, and even physical signage to reach all employees, including those with non-desk jobs. 
• Personalize Messages: Tailor communications to specific employee groups or individuals, addressing them by name, to increase engagement and understanding. 
• Simplify Language: Avoid jargon and use clear, concise language that is easy for everyone to understand. Provide examples to illustrate how benefits work.
• Make it Convenient: Offer multiple ways to enroll (online, in person), provide flexible enrollment periods, and ensure easy access to information and resources. 
• Encourage Questions and Feedback: Provide opportunities for employees to ask questions and provide feedback through Q&A sessions, dedicated forums, or feedback forms. 
• Highlight Key Dates and Deadlines: Clearly communicate the open enrollment period dates and deadlines to avoid confusion and last-minute scrambling. 
• Use Visual Aids: Incorporate visuals like charts, graphs, and videos to make information more engaging and easier to understand. 
• Track Results and Refine: Monitor participation rates and feedback to identify areas for improvement in future open enrollment periods. 

QualChoice Telehealth Services

QualChoice Telehealth powered by Teladoc® makes it easy for members to access in-network healthcare providers for non-urgent care 24 hours a day. Use it right when you need it — or schedule an appointment ahead of time.

Use QualChoice Telehealth for things like:

• Colds, flu, and fevers
• Rashes or skin conditions
• Sinus problems or allergies
• Ear infections
• Upper respiratory infections or bronchitis
• Pink eye

Learn more about QualChoice Telehealth

Medicare Tips: Getting Care During a Disaster or Emergency

Being prepared for a natural disaster is crucial to protecting your safety and well-being. Medicare.gov provides helpful information about accessing care in a disaster or emergency:

• Getting your prescription drugs during a disaster or emergency: You can move most prescriptions to another nearby in-network pharmacy, and back to your regular pharmacy when the emergency or disaster ends. Contact your Medicare drug plan if you need to use an out-of-network pharmacy.
• Seeing a doctor during a disaster or emergency: If you have Original Medicare, you can always see any doctor who accepts Medicare. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or other Medicare health plan, contact your health plan about making temporary changes, like using an out-of-network doctor during an emergency or disaster.
• Learn more about accessing critical care (like cancer treatments or dialysis) or repairing or replacing equipment (like wheelchairs or walkers that were damaged or lost during a disaster or emergency).

Visit Medicare.gov/emergency to learn how to get the care you may need if an emergency is declared and you have to evacuate to a safe area.