new year's health insurance resolutions - uva wise...new year's health insurance...

New Year's Health Insurance Resolutions

Presented by 2017 UVa‐Wise Staff Senate

Survey Overview

94

27

Completion / Dropout

CompletedDrop Out

Age:

1.00%

25.00%

28.00%

20.00%

27.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

18‐25 26‐35 36‐45 46‐55 55+

Mean : 3.464 | Confidence Interval @ 95% : [3.249 ‐ 3.679] | Standard Deviation : 1.162 | Standard Error : 0.110

Classification

7.00%

23.00%

70.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

Administrative Faculty Faculty Staff


Annual Salary range

6.00%

28.00%

31.00%

25.00%

10.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

$18,000‐25,999 $26,000‐35,999 $36,000‐50,999 $51,000‐75,999 $76,000+


What medical health plan do you have?

13.00%

25.00%

58.00%

4.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

Basic Value Choice Waived coverage


If you waived coverage, did you choose a private insurance company?

0.00% 1.00% 3.00%

96.00%

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

120%

Yes, I found my own policy No, I have no insurance No, I am on my spouse’s insurance

N/A


What level of coverage did you choose for your medical health plan?

44.00%

17.00%

22.00%

17.00%

1.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

45%

50%

Employee only Employee + spouse Employee + children Employee + family N/A


Are you aware of the differences in the plan choices?

59.00%

36.00%

4.00%1.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

Yes, I fully understand Somewhat I’d like to learn more No, I do not know thedifferences


When choosing a health plan, what were the deciding factors (Select all that apply)?

17.00%20.00%

24.00%

12.00%

19.00%

2.00%

6.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%


When choosing a provider, what are the deciding factors? (other)

Response

Reputable care

I use personnel with whom I became connected before my employment at U.Va.‐Wise.

Quality of service

Quality of service

my established doctors

I have an established relationship with both my dentist and optometrist. Neither are considered "in‐network".

Reputation

satisfactory reputation ‐ someone I trust

Are they highly recommended.

...personal relationship...

Do you use a flexible spending account (FSA)?

20.00%

75.00%

5.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

Yes No No, I do not know what flexiblespending is.


Are you aware that UVa‐Wise employees pay the same as UVA employees for health insurance premiums and get the UVA Provider Network pricing structure while having access

to the national Aetna database for providers?

74.00%

26.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

Yes No


Did you take advantage of HoosWell incentives (extra money on paychecks and free or discounted Fitbit)?

81.00%

19.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

Yes, I do the HoosWell challenges No, I do not participate


Did you take advantage of HoosWell incentives (extra money on paychecks and free or discounted Fitbit)?

Response

Was part‐time until recently and expected my position to be phased out. I will participate in future incentive plans.

Not aware of the perks and don't have time.

I have a long term history with a good PCP and haven't seen added value to these programs. I would rather this money went back to our insurance to lower the costs.

time

I refuse to participate in a program that wastes money that could be used to add to the health coverage

Don't feel that it gives enough back with the difference of the cost of this new insurance.

I exercise on days off and eat right!

I am not interested in being tracked or having my health information (biometrics screening) sold to medical companies wanting to sell me products I do not need or want. The discounts are laughable for the amount of activity expected. It is almost worth paying the little extra just to have them leave me alone. If they want to humor us and make us feel better about the insurance coverage failings they should make it worth our while.

don't need anything else to keep track of.

I don't support the nanny state.

Response

my schedule does not allow it

Because I am not on the insurance. It my understanding that I can't be a part of this program for that reason.

I went to the screening but tracking stuff is too much work. I am TOOOOOOOOO busy teaching, research, advising, service. I can barely keep the house clean, never go anywhere besides conferences, etc.

Because it is not available to me because I am not insured by UVA

Just have not so far.

I do not want to give out my personal health information. If you made the incentives available without asking for personal medical information I would do it.

Did you take advantage of HoosWell incentives (extra money on paychecks and free or discounted Fitbit)? Cont.

Did you use your free wellness/preventative visit in 2016?

51.00%

23.00%26.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

Yes No No, I didn’t know I had a free wellness visit


Did you get your free flu shot in 2016?

34.00%

45.00%

12.00%9.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

45%

50%

Yes No No, I didn’t know I could get a free flu shot

No, I paid for my flu shot


How much did you pay for out of pocket expenses in 2016 for medical? (this can be found by logging into aetna.com)

42.00%

11.00%

7.00%9.00%

6.00%4.00% 5.00%

14.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

45%

Less than$1,500

Between$1500 and$2000

Between$2,001 and$3,000



More than$5,000

Met Out ofpocket

Expense Limitin 2016

I'm not sure


Do you ever delay seeking medical attention? If so, why?

41.00%

7.00%

16.00%

7.00%

29.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

45%

Yes, financial reasons Yes, fear of theunknown

Yes, time away frommy job

Yes, I have to travellong distances to see

my physician

No, I do not delay


What type of specialists would you like to see available in‐network?

9

1

2

1 1

9

3

1

3 3

8

3

1

3

1 1 1 1

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

1

ALL Allergy Anestesiologist Asthma Chiropractic

Dentist Dermatologist Endodontist Neurology OBGYN

Optometrist Orthopedic Osteopathic Primary Care Pediatric Behavior Specialist

Pulmonology Rhumetology Sleep Medicine

In the last year, how far did you have to travel to find an in‐network healthcare provider?

72%

28%

1 hour or more 30 mins or less

Are you aware that you can look at the Aetna online database to compare physicians and services with pricing? (Example: NCH charges $5,000 for a procedure but LPH only charges

$2,000)

35.00%

65.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

Yes, I use this service No, I did not know we have this available


When choosing a provider, what are the deciding factors? (select all that apply)

14.00%

20.00%

31.00%

25.00%

10.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

Bedside manner Cost of service In‐network Location Other


Response

I choose a provider based on his/her credentials (board certified), ranking and experience (how many procedures done in the past year, etc.)

competence trumps all

Ability to fix what is wrong.

Reputation

background and word of mouth

reputation

Being able to keep my doctor I have had for 10 years

How skilled the provider is.

Trust

Credibility and knowledge.

When choosing a provider, what are the deciding factors? Cont.

What do you do when you receive an EOB (explanation of benefits) and have a question about your charges?

10.00%

29.00%

14.00%

2.00%

34.00%

10.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

Pay regardless ifyou disagree with

the charges

Call the physician’s billing office

Call UVa‐Wise Benefits

Administrator

Call UVA HR Call Aetna Other


What do you do when you receive an EOB (explanation of benefits) and have a question about your charges? (other)

Response

I call Aetna and the Doctor.

Francene assisted in getting my re‐imbursement for my flu shot after the charge was applied to my deductible. Thanks Francene!

call...?...

I first contact the physician's billing office and then contact Aetna if needed.

I may start with Aetna, but I'll call as many offices as I need

bite the bullet because no one seems to understand the charges

I pay, as I have found calling Aetna to be pointless.

Contact Francene, the billing office of the physician, and/or call Aetna/UC as needed

I do a number of these things‐‐ call the physician, UVa‐Wise Benefits Admin, and Aetna.

Call Aetna, then if I still have an issue, I contact Francene.

Are you enrolled in Davis Vision?

57.00%

43.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

Yes No


What vision benefits have you used? (Select all that apply)

42.00%

17.00%

22.00%

19.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

45%

Routine eye exam Contacts Glasses I have not used my benefit


Do you use an in‐network vision provider?

57.00%

2.00%

13.00%

28.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

Yes No, I prefer not to No, I cannot find one Other


Do you use an in‐network vision provider? (other)Response

There is only one eye doctor in the area that accepts Davis.

I tried one and got a bad prescription and lower quality lenses. Have gone back to my long term doctor and optician.

not been

I have a 20 year relationship with my vision provider. That history is a sacrifice I'm not willing to make.

Again, my eye doctor is no longer in the network.

there is not one local

my eye doctor doesn't accept and I haven't found another here, but my daughter in another location has

The local (in the town of Wise) eye doctor I have seen for the past 25 years is not in‐network with Davis Vision. I do not wish to see a different eye doctor so I have put off an eye doctor visit ever since UVA forced their new insurance on us.

I haven't actively searched.

I have not used it yet because of financial concerns.

Dr, Awan is MD

The doctor I used prior to getting the new insurance is not under Davis Vision, but I really like him so I just stayed without really looking for other options.

If you use a Davis Vision provider, are you aware of the discounts?

45.00%

55.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

Yes, I use the discounts No, I did not know about Davis Vision discounts


Which dental plan did you choose?

55.00%

45.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

Basic dental Enhanced dental


Which level of coverage did you choose?

40.00%

18.00%

12.00%

30.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

45%

Employee only Spouse (if eligible) Children Family (spouse + children, ifeligible)


Do you take advantage of the preventive dental cleanings (every 6 months)?

85.00%

10.00%5.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

Yes No, I did not get dental cleanings No, I did not know this was a free in‐network service


What are the major areas that you would like to improve or change for your dental plan? (Select all that apply)

32.00%29.00%

25.00%

4.00%

10.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

Participating providersincreased

Different dentalprovider selected forUVa‐Wise employeessince we have limitedaccess to coveredUnited Concordia

providers (e.g. DeltaDental is prevalent in

Wise area)

Special exemption foraccess to in‐network

specialists (i.e.endodontists) when

the closestparticipating specialistis not within a 50‐mile

radius

Nothing, I like it theway it is

Other


What are the major areas that you would like to improve or change for your dental plan? (other)

Response

Cover fluoride treatments

Providers tell me Concordia payments are too low to cover the cost of services provided. The materials for one procedure costs a small dental office more than the total reimbursement.

It is an excellent plan. Provider that I use I have never had a charge. The out of pocket cost to my spouse has dropped since being with Aetna.

Better pay for the dentists so they will be more willing to participate in the dental insurance. The pay has been the same for the past 20 years, this is why dentist cannot afford to participate in insurance groups.

Genuine effort made to get local providers into whatever dental plan we are offered.

I understand why a dentist would not want to support the dental insurance. On my last cleaning the dentist was out $103 because the insurance didn't cover all the charges. Which is ridiculous. Yes, I received a cleaning and my family received cleanings for preventive services but the insurance didn't even cover all the charges so the dentist was out that money. That isn't helping a business at all.

Max yeary capped increased. It's 2000 now and it does not take but a couple visitso to eat that up

I prefer the BlueCross insurance that we had.

Had to change dentist after 10+ years b/c of switch to United Concordia

According to an insurance person at the endodontist, United Concordia has a better dental plan that would be more comparable to the dental plan we had with Aetna. Also, my dentist agreed to become a provider for United Concordia but made it clear that I would be paying more than I did with Anthem. Let staff know Dr. Bill Horne is a provider for United Concordia.

Response

The plan is supposed to cover our 6‐month cleaning, but it only covers a portion of it.

Again, it seems that everything costs considerably more than when we were with Delta.

My dentist is willing to take our insurance and "eats" what our insurance will not pay for teeth cleanings. It's very fortunate that he's willing to work with College patrons, but it's sad that he has to lose money on a service he used to get paid in full for.

Since UVa‐Wise is located in a rural area without access to a wide variety of facilities and specialists as in the Charlottesville area, I would like to explore the possibility of adding a dental coverage with another carrier for Wise employees, (such as Delta Dental) that would be more readily available to our employees. Also, the possibility of having an out‐of network option for specialists that would pay as if in‐network for distances travelled over a 50‐mile radius.

I'm not sure where you got the information that we got free cleaning‐ I paid my dentist about 1/2 of the fee, since the insurance only paid about 1/2.

What are the major areas that you would like to improve or change for your dental plan? (other) Cont.

What was the distance travelled to find a United Concordia dental provider?

27.00%26.00%

10.00%

20.00%

16.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

Less than 10 milesfrom home

Between 10 and 20miles from home

Between 20 and 30miles from home

More than 30 miles I do not use a UnitedConcordia provider


How difficult was it to find a participating dental provider close to your home? (5‐easy, 1‐hard)

2026

63

16

140

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

12345

5‐easy, 1‐hard

Have you had to travel more than 50 miles for an in‐network specialist (i.e. Endodontist)?

11.00%

79.00%

10.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

Yes No If so, how many miles did you have totravel?


Have you had to travel more than 50 miles for an in‐network specialist (i.e. Endodontist)?

Response

I use dentist I have used for almost 20 years.

50

60

n/a

85‐90

60 miles

120 miles roundtrip

50

Which prescription drug plan do you have?

19.00%

81.00%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

Aetna (Basic Plan) Catamaran (Choice and Value Plans)


How many prescriptions were you prescribed in 2016 that fell in the non‐generic category (Tier 2 and Tier 3)?

29.00%

13.00%15.00%

21.00% 21.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

0 1 2 3 or more Not sure


Have you consulted a physician about changing to generic drugs?

47.00%

13.00%

40.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

45%

50%

Yes No N/A


How much money did you spend in 2016 for non‐generic drugs in Tier 2 and Tier 3?

33.00%

18.00%

4.00%

1.00%

9.00%

12.00%

22.00%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

I spend less than$200 per yearfor non‐generic

drugs

I spend between$201 and $400per year fornon‐generic

drugs


drugs


drugs

I spend morethan $600 peryear for non‐generic drugs

I did not useprescriptiondrugs in 2016

Not sure


What are the major areas that you would like to see improved or changed for our medical plan? (Select all that

apply)

13.00%

9.00%10.00%

8.00%

15.00%14.00%

8.00%7.00%

1.00%

9.00%

7.00%

0%2%4%6%8%10%12%14%16%


Suggestions on improving HoosWell? (HoosWell is a program provided by UVA to provide resources and programs to help

employees maintain a healthy lifestyle. Response

I enjoy the program

The financial incentives are key! Keep them up.

Get our own campus resources involved aka the Wellness Center

Excellent program.

Educational sessions on prescription drug abuse, local drug problems, free needle exchange, diabetes, mental health issues, and why Wellmont and Mountain state consolidation is a good thing.

Hooswell is excellent. I'm glad to see that someone is at least trying to give employees a reason to stay healthy and live a longer life.

Additional incentives. Because UVa reduced the incentive they were paying last year, we actually didn't gain anything from the incentives they offered this year so that wasn't good.

Incentives work

none

another free tracker

Response

Our Wellness Center needs to be HIGHLY involved with the HoosWell program and they are not.

The main issue I have with the HoosWell program at UVa‐Wise is that they don't really consult the wellness center in regards to the physical fitness portion of it. There could be a really great opportunity to do more for employee health and wellness but the most that has been asked of the wellness center has been a demonstration with resistance bands (that were not the best for general population use in the first place) and a few tours back when it first started.

a.The wellness center has tried several things to get employees more involved in health and wellness‐‐lunchtime group ex classes, early morning classes, aqua exercise classes, a 4pm class, couch‐to‐5k program, etc and our employees do not take advantage of any of it, with the exception of a select few. It's very frustrating on the wellness side of things to offer programs that employees say they want but don't actually participate in when it comes down to it.

I would commend the provision of a Fitbit to interested staff

HoosWell has been great. I have no suggestions to improve it.

I cannot think of any.

The hooswell is great, but often the number of workouts is so high I don't even bother trying. Perhaps levels (complete so many workouts get X, complete more and get XX, etc)

At Wise, allow spouse and children free use of the Wellness Center and Pool.

I enjoyed the HoosWell challenges.

Suggestions on improving HoosWell? (HoosWell is a program provided by UVA to provide resources and programs to help

employees maintain a healthy lifestyle. Cont.

Response

figure out a less taxed option so that we receive more than the less‐than‐half of the $500 reward I received!!!!! upsetting to be taxed THAT much!

Adding a running total at the top of the page to see how many days you have completed or how many more you need to complete to reach the goal.

Wider range of offerings for people to try

More incentives

Hooswell is fine. I think updating the FitBits would be a nice perk.

I like the HoosWell Program, It gets me up and walking more.

I think the HoosWell benefits and programs are perhaps the greatest improvement to our health plan over the state plan. However, I often feel that UVa‐Wise is an "after thought," i.e. our screenings feel at a horrible time right before fall break in October. It would be nice for the Health & Wellness Center here to have a hand in the HoosWell program and coordination. I really appreciate the Weight Watchers at Work program and the walking challenges.

Open to all employees

More interaction with the fitness staff on campus; they don't seem to buy‐in at all, or really care about people who are not in their fitness category.

I like the incentives program, it keeps my health front and center in my mind. If it were not for the incentive program, I would not have the better health at this time.

Suggestions on improving HoosWell? (HoosWell is a program provided by UVA to provide resources and programs to help employees maintain a

healthy lifestyle. Cont.

Programs that you would like to see added in addition to HoosWell?

Response

More incentivies

weight loss programs

Current suit me well.

Assistance with elder care. On campus childcare.

Meal Plan programs

I would like to see the Ely Health and Wellness Center staff do a little more with HoosWell.

Incentives work

discounts on preventative health maybe?

Programs for weight loss like discounts on trainers or weight loss help other than weight watchers

Pre 7am fitness classes opened to just UVa‐Wise employees at the beginning fitness level.

Some program to promote and educate healthy eating habits.

Promoting easy things, like walking, again. And prizes for completing challenges.

More variety in the offerings at Wise‐UVa‐Charlottesville has a bigger HoosWell offering, such as the cooking classes, that I think would go over well here at Wise. A lot of people don't know how easy it is to cook healthy food, without using processed items.

Response

The Wellness Center should offer classes during the lunch hour and at 5:00 p.m. for employees. Classes should also be offered for those of us who are not physically fit but desire to be.

We need a discounted rate at a Charlottesville Hotel for medical visits or a house of our own we can stay at for extended services.

I would like to see someone solely in charge of employee health and wellness on this campus. Or at least have someone from the wellness center on UVa‐Wise's "hooswell" committee. I think there is a GREAT opportunity to improve this program as a whole and I think having someone who's entire job consists of keeping people healthy and fit would be a great asset.

I'm not aware of any other programs that could be added. HoosWell has been great program.

I cannot think of any.

Actual led walks, hikes, and BETTER ON CAMPUS DINING. Today there was nothing but carbs, fat, and more fat at the dining hall. Not a green vegetable to been seen outside the salad bar.

At Wise, allow spouse and children free use of the Wellness Center and Pool.

None that I can think of at the moment.

Programs that you would like to see added in addition to HoosWell? Cont.

What types of workshops/informational programs would be helpful to you? (Select all that apply)

10.00%

6.00%5.00%

8.00%

6.00%

9.00%8.00%

6.00%

8.00%

13.00%

6.00% 6.00% 6.00%

2.00%

0%

2%

4%

6%

8%

10%

12%

14%

What types of workshops/informational programs would be helpful to you? (other)

Response

Put a lot of this into an online video and document library so we can find specifics when we need them.

No workshops; I prefer to get rid of Aetna.

I think they UVa‐Wise should be in charge of their own HoosWell program, at least the programming portion of it.

I am not as familiar with HSA as I should be, probably

How would you rate the UVA health plan overall for the following: (5 best, 1 worst)

1720

42

15

4

0

10

20

30

40

50

12345

Medical Ratings

212220

14

5

0

5

10

15

20

25

12345

Dental Ratings

13

18

24

19

6

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

12345

Vision Ratings

89

25

12

1 0

5

10

15

20

25

30

12345

Rx Ratings0

10

20

30

40

50

12345

Overall Healthcare Ratings

What are the major areas that you would like to see improved or changed for our medical plan?

Response

Dental is the worst and needs improvement.

Do away with in and out of network providers. ..

The drug program is horrible!!!a.I am a "good patient" that works closely with my doctors to maintain my health so I am able to stay active and engaged in the workplace and my community. I use generics when they work adequately and my doctor approves.b.I do have a couple of medications that work really well and the drug company keeps trying to change them. They seem to think they know better than my physician what works for me. They want to ignore the years of history it took to find these and work out the optimum combination for me. I will fight them but I fear we have employees and their families that suffer unnecessarily because this is so common.

Option to include spouse even if they are offered insurance at their place of work.

I would just like for Aetna to understand what is meant by "Max out‐of‐pocket".

We need a discounted rate at a Charlottesville Hotel for medical visits or a house of our own we can stay at for extended services.

We need more local providers in every category!

What are the major areas that you would like to see improved or changed for our medical plan? Cont.

Response

One major downside is that my spouse is not allowed on my family coverage. This basically forces us to double what we pay for premiums each month because she has to carry her own insurance.

I have seen no appreciable benefit from having Choice coverage. I plan to go to basic coverage because most of my providers do not accept our insurance; hence, I am paying additional money for insurance that is not usable.

Continue to see doctors that we have seen for years...

Deductibles are too high....

Co‐pay for medicine is too high and changes from month to month...

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield was better for my family...

Being located in the heart of Appalachia, we are already at a disadvantage. We pay the same premiums as our peers in Charlottesville and they have an on campus clinic they can go to, not to mention an awesome state of the art University hospital abundant with specialists. An exemption for local providers not in the Aetna network would show that someone recognizes the struggles we already have. It would show that they have made a conscious effort to not compound our already difficult healthcare choices.

I am very unhappy with this insurance. My medications have been changed three times; I prefer my medical practitioner to make decisions about my physical well‐being...not someone from the insurance company.

Response

We're in a tough location here, but when I had a catastrophic health event last year, my Aetna Choice came through for me. I paid a lot for it, but I got very good treatment. I think people have to be willing to ask questions, call doctors and providers, and go to bat for themselves a little. I wish more providers and services were in‐network and I wish it cost less, but I also am lucky to have insurance.

Find another way. This insurance isn't good for the employees here at UVA‐Wise. No ombudsman will help with this. We need to have a lot more specialists, dentists, and doctors added to the in‐network area. Two years in, and I haven't seen any updates/upgrades/changes to who is available in network.

a.I lost my dentist because of this new plan. UVA did this without doing its proper research ‐only seeing the bottom line of saving money. We are a faceless community to them. We have to consult with an ombudsman in Charlottesville? Why? What good will this do? We need someone down here in Southwestern Virginia to be more proactive than simply looking at complaints and making foolhardy decisions because "it's the UVA way." We have to drive **hours** to specialists sometimes because closer specialists aren't in‐network.b.I do not have the same health coverage in this area as compared to my state employee peers in other areas where they work and live. I get nickel‐and‐dimed to death on this insurance, and have to pay a bit more for bloodwork/lab analysis than I ever had to with Anthem.c.The lack of activity and care about us, as employees of a so‐called division of UVA, is appalling.

Spousal coverage availability


Response

The UVA plan seems to cost more on everything, and would cost a small fortune if we ever had an event that caused us to hit the max OOP. Spousal coverage was also waived, which is still never addressed.

Choose an insurance carrier that will be accepted by the doctors in the Wise, VA 24293 area. Several doctors do not accept Aetna.

a.REMOVE the requirement that spouses with access to eligible plans CANNOT be covered under the current plan. In other words, allow spouses to be covered, regardless of access to other insurance plans.

Include all spouses regardless if they are employed. Change back to the state plan with Anthen.

To be able to include health coverage for my spouse

It is ridiculous that we are on the same plan as the UVa employees but without a "free" hospital within 8 hours. Absolutely ridiculous, and makes us feel like the "lesser" campus and employees.

More in‐network providers in our area. There are NO in‐network anesthesiologists in the TriCities area, our main local hub of medical care.

The thing I want most is to get a correct answer from Aetna when I call ahead to find out what something will cost me. I've yet to have them back up what I've been told on the phone when it comes time to pay. As a result, I keep getting surprised by what I have to pay out of pocket. The Aetna plan is the worst I've ever had in terms of out‐of‐pocket expense and quality of service.


Response

I would like for the plan to cover testing for Vitamin D levels as one of our preventative tests for women 40 or older; lower the out‐of‐pocket expenses to be more in line with Anthem's. It was difficult to go from $1,500 per year to $5,000 per year.

I switched to the Value plan because it would help offset some of my expenses for a prescription. Last year, Aetna approved my doctor’s pre‐authorization; however, this year, they denied it even though nothing has changed. Aetna’s decision compounds the additional expense I will have to pay in the higher tier of the plan. I am disheartened by Aetna, and I am disappointed in UVA.

Spousal exclusion removed for the UVa Health Plan. The dropping of coverage for spouses was a MAJOR disadvantage for our family in that my spouse was forced to switch to her employer's plan, which was both significantly more expensive and provided substantially less coverage than ours. This occurred around a time when she was experiencing health‐related issues, and due to both the increased costs of coverage and less coverage allowed for procedures through her plan, our plan's dropping of spouses from coverage translated into literally thousands of dollars more spent out‐of‐pocket for our family. In an area where other employers' plans are often of substantially lower quality than ours due to regional economic woes, this is a significant issue ‐ one that has led to us discussing whether or not to leave our positions here in Wise, in spite of how much we love the college and the area, and look for employment outside of the area with institutions with better benefit frameworks for their employees' families.


What is your most favorite part of the UVA Health Plan and why?

Response

Even though the change from Anthem to Aetna brought higher deductibles, increased out‐of pocket expenses it is still good health care. In addition, some of the Delta Dental providers had decided to not participate so that change probably didn't increase the out of pocket much.

The lower rates

Access to Aetna national participants. I only use providers outside the area.

Hoos Well incentives

I am not happy with any of it. The medical coverage costs too much in copays and deductibles but will at least get you treated.

so far my spouse and my self have been luckey

Copay

It is mostly consistent.

Not a damn thing

It has lowered my out of pocket cost for the prescriptions I am required to take.

Response

it's better than nothing

Flexibility with HSA

Since the College cannot afford to pay the employer portion of our health coverage I am grateful to have an employer provided health insurance plan.

Mail order prescription services.

I don't have one. I have had nothing but trouble with Arena and Catamaran.

premium is reasonable for value plan ‐ why? I can afford to at least have some type of coverage for family

The HoosWell program...to the extent it is delivered at UVa‐Wise.

coverage...thank you...

Cost of premiums.

I do not like any part of the UVA Health Plan. My medical costs have soared under this plan and it is difficult to find specialists who accept the plan.

What is your most favorite part of the UVA Health Plan and why? Cont.

Response

I have insurance

It is relatively affordable.

It exists and keeps me from having no insurance at all. That is literally the only positive remark I can make about Aetna. It is slightly better than nothing.

I guess that I have insurance when I need it? Although, the costs have gone up 50% or so for lab tests.

nothing, I liked the old plan

There is no favorite part

I'm glad to have insurance.

The HoosWell challenge money

The prescription plan has been very helpful to me with the cost of my medicine.

I have coverage. I at least have something if I need it.

lower co‐pays with Choice plan


Response

The medical coverage is better than we have found with other providers

I like the lower office co‐pays offered by the UVA Health Plan.

The premiums are lower for me, which is great unless I ever need to use it. Then the max OOP will be a major issue.

Nothing. The plan is worse.

HoosWell: gets you up and moving

HoosWell Iniatives

The lowered co‐pays

*cash incentives for being healthy and choosing healthy optionsa.*free $1000 that UVA puts into my HSA each year just for having the HDHPb.*free fitbitsc.*half price for weight watchersd.*pretty much everything associated with Hoo's Well, although the offerings at Wise that are specific to Hoo's Well are seriously lacking

So far when I have had to contact Aetna the support personnel have been very helpful, friendly and knowledgeable about our "special" plan here at UVA‐Wise

Generic drugs for $6 for a 30‐day supply


What is your least favorite part of the UVA Health Plan and why?

Response

Deductibles and out of pocket expenses have increased. Dental coverage isn't as good as before (I'm paying double now compared to before). My dentist who I've seen for 33 years does not participate with Concordia.

I enjoy it, I just with the Aetna database was updated on a regular basics but that isn't something that we have control over. Some of the doctor info is not correct, they have deceased or no longer practice and until you call you wont know this information.

Too expensive, coverage is terrible

That I have to spend additional time calling between my physicians and Aetna to have basic services covered.

Dental and Vision are basically worthless in our area.

the deductible is to high to meet

Out of pocket amountsa.Can't add spouse

Seemingly arbitrary nature of decisions made by Aetna about what will be covered and how that is decided.

Everything, little/no access to "in‐network" providers, having to fight with Aetna over every penny....

Vision is an issue.

Response

One major downside is that my spouse is not allowed on my family coverage. This basically forces us to double what we pay for premiums each month because she has to carry her own insurance.

The cost for the premium and co‐pays.

All the benefits that are no longer covered

Lack of providers & high out of pocket

UVA Health Plan is not as good as the State Employee COVA care for individuals who live in far southwest Virginia.

The fact that I had to pay $346 for lab work at my recent well visit appointment. Even though it was coded as being preventive labs.

a.The fact that if I did have a true medical emergency I would never be able to paid a co‐pay upfront to have the necessary tests or other procedures done.

CATAMARAN!!!

Cost!! most expensive insurance in southwest Virginia.

high deductibles ‐ i am STILL paying on bloodwork I had done last year as my annual physical workup

Not many in‐network providers in our area

What is your least favorite part of the UVA Health Plan and why? Cont.

Response

Impossible to find providers!

In‐network providers in my area.

I do not like any part of the UVA Health Plan. My medical costs have soared under this plan and it is difficult to find specialists who accept the plan.

It's a long, long way to Charlottesville if I want to use UVA Med Ctr; no matter what, there is just more in Charlottesville and area than there is here, and there is no way to change this geographic fact

You have to really watch what Aetna pays vs. what they say they will pay. Maternity and labor/delivery copays need work!

Out of pocket max skyrocketed with UVA's plan from our previous Anthem plan. Participating providers plummeted when we were forced into UVA's plan. There are NO in‐network anesthesiologists in the TriCities area. I was told by couple of the out‐of‐network anesthesiologists in the TriCities area that they dropped Aetna because of constant non‐payments. I have seen similar stories about Aetna in general.

The short‐sightedness of the people responsible for putting us on this plan. The dental insurance stinks.

How much more costly and less effective it is for us vs. the UVa employees

Separate providers for medical, dental, and vision. Vision is an add‐on rather than included. Eye exams not covered in medical plan.


Response

everything, having to have 4 cards to deal with

Aetna's inability to give a correct answer to coverage questions.

Having to pay more out‐of‐pocket for coverage for insurance.

As a classified staff member and Virginia State Employee, there is no option for choosing Anthem for my health plan, as other Virginia State employees have.

The prescription drug costs

Being one of the lowest paid employees on campus, the medical copays are too expensive for most of us.

I cannot carry my spouse on it. We now pay more because her employer provided insurance is not as good.

the cost

Lack of doctors and cost

My least favorite part is the maximum out of pocket expense for a family and the new increased deductible for 2017.


Response

Spousal dismissal from plans and the fact that everything costs more than Anthem.

The reliability and competency of the prescription mail order company. They are inconsistent with auto delivery and refills. Their website has changed and last year's (2016) info is not available.

removing spouse from coverage, it put a huge burden on our family (changing doctors, higher cost)

Cost and also the Pharmacy. Tier II prescriptions need to be lowered on pricing.

The Dental Insurance and Prescription plans: Because no providers nearby that are taking new patients and the drug plan is too expensive on non generics

Blood work‐‐I have never gotten my free preventive blood work. I've called Aetna and still end up paying. The doctor's office has billed several different ways to try to make it work, but in the end, I just pay for it because I'm tired of fighting with people on the phone. Also, in regards to insurance, I was prescribed a generic form of Zofran. The prescription was for 30 pills, but insurance would only pay for 24. Really? It seemed a bit insane and no reason for a 30 day supply to not be provided.

Did not cover my husband because he worked and we had to leave the plan after 30 yrs coverage

I can't cover my spouse. Our health plans both feature large out of pocket maximums. Because we are on two separate health plans, we have a combined $20,000/year out of pocket maximum.

The higher deductibles


Response

Prescription drug coverage$100 deductible for tier 2 and 3 and having to pay 20% up to a maximum cap amount. Drugs in this area can be very costly to the employee, especially if there is more than one and if other members of the family have drugs in this area.

The cost.

spouse can not be on plan

*lack of providers, but with some creativity and research it's really not that hard to find providersa.*I hate the dental plan, mostly because my dentist isn't covered and the allowances for out of network providers are a joke.b.*When I call Aetna, I get the run‐around often about what is and what is not covered by our health plan; I recently spent 45 minutes on the phone with them because upon leaving a provider's office, the provider told me that they were considered out‐of‐network by Aetna, thus meaning that my deductible changed from $2000 to $6000. I called Aetna myself and it literally took 45 minutes for her to realize that the provider actually was covered. The "national network" thing is confusing to me, and I think it's also confusing to Aetna employees.


Please describe some tangible things the Staff Senate can take to the Ombudsman in hopes of being changed.

Response

I have to wait for dental care (not emergent) until I can pay all the non‐covered expenses. I do my 6 month check‐ups.

This vision plan covers more. On the old plan I spent over $300 plus out of pocket and with this plan I've spent less than $150 out of pocket.

Affordability

Prescription coverage would be ok if they would stop changing what our doctor prescribes.

most jobs does not hire for full time and there for no ins. and they are punished for not being able to afford ins

Be our voice and make changes for the things that will help the most employees

I believe the biggest item is getting employees to understand that they can use the service. I have found it remedies most problems.

We do not have access to the UVA Medical Hospital and doctors like UVA faculty do. Our salaries are lower than UVA. Find insurance that benefits rural Southwest VA employees.

Additional providers, including Home Health providers

Get an exemption that allows any local provider we see be treated as in‐network.

Response

Explain that Wise, VA is five hours away from UVA. No one up there realizes that obviously.

More communications.....not a ton of information at one time but thoughtfully sharing information would be helpful.

Make it easier and nit such a fight to get the message paid for.

Price!

I would like to see a cost comparison from the colleges standpoint as to the difference in our previous Anthem coverage and the current Aetna coverage.

Bring the Ombudsman to UVa‐Wise at least 1‐2 times annually.

I believe faculty and staff lost this battle at the beginning and there is no hope that changes will be made to the health benefit plan.

We need more vision provider that accept Davis.

Absolutely nothing can change. UVA succeeded in forcing their plan on UVA‐Wise employees. If this were something that COULD change, more participating providers/specialists. Special exemptions for out‐of‐network providers without having to appeal a decision 3 times. How about laying down two pieces of paper, one with UVA's Aetna plan and the other with Virginia State Employee's Anthem plan. Once you pick your jaw up off the floor, try to move the Aetna costs closer to that Anthem plan. If UVA's excuse is that "all health insurance costs have risen", show me the Anthem plan currently offered to Virginia state employees and let's compare that to UVA's Aetna plan.

Please describe some tangible things the Staff Senate can take to the Ombudsman in hopes of being changed. Cont.

Response

Figure out how to correct the dental situation around here, because it sucks. Just because we live in Appalachia doesn't mean we have to be subjected to the stereotype of not having teeth.

a.Find a way for UVA to be more proactive for us, since they're chaining us along with them on this insurance. Employees here have been complaining about how bad this insurance has been on them, and the university's response demonstrates their being tone‐deaf and out of touch.b.We need someone to be brought here and be proactive in getting us comparable care to my peers elsewhere in the state. Having to appeal to Charlottesville is a waste of time.c.Relay the issues that employees continue to have again and again. Cost issues are important to me, as I've dipped into my pocket a lot more than I used to for "routine maintenance" checks.

Get a new health plan?

the fact this plan was based on UVA and their area providers

I contacted the ombudsman over a prescription problem when we were first switched to the plan, and received prompt and helpful service. When I had a problem with the first surgery, where I had to pay roughly $1000.00 out of pocket for anesthesiology, she did not even reply to my last email asking if there was anything that could be done about the fact that Aetna mislead me about what they would pay.

Vitamin D testing, an allowance for hearing aides and testing

Provide classified staff members with the option of choosing Anthem as our health plan provider, as other Virginia State employees have.


Response

we basically took a 10% pay cut under this new insurance

More physicians in plan, cost of plan, cost of testing

The vision insurance is my least favorite coverage. There are very few providers in this area, none in Wise that accept Davis vision. I would like to see us obtain better coverage or at the very least offer incentives for local optometry groups such as Repco and New Vision Optical to accept our current policy.

As you have gathered, my primary complaint involves the high cost of my prescription because Aetna denied my physician's pre‐authorization form. I do not expect insurance to pay for everything, but I want to feel like the system is fair.

Increase providersa.Adjustment to the fertility benefit; as it stands now you have to have been unsuccessfully trying to conceive for a year prior to being eligible for the benefit, but that is significantly unfair for LGBT couples because of the logistics; there almost always has to be a doctor involved in order for LGBT couples to get pregnant and after a year of trying with a doctor, a couple would be out tens of thousands of dollars before that $15k even kicks in.b.Change the dental plan!


Response

A cost comparison between current Anthem/Aetna rates would be reasonable. The consistent statement is "health insurance is going up everywhere" but there's not been any evidence that Anthem is more expensive now than Aetna. Also, the spousal lack of coverage is a problem.

Allow spouses to remain on coverage.

Reduction of Copays and Deductables

More discussion with UVa‐Wise employees‐not over email.a.Help with "how to" sessions for employees‐‐such as getting pre‐approvals, using the services we aren't aware of, etc.

Access to expanded healthcare services on campus, possibly more days of coverage by a nurse practitioner on campus. At UVA, employees have access to a same day clinic with no charge (source: http://www.hr.virginia.edu/hr‐for‐you/university‐staff/university‐staff‐benefits/miscellaneous‐benefits/ )

More in‐network providers and specialist for Dental.

Waiving the prescription drug $100 a year deductible and allowing dollars spent on drugs to be added to the yearly medical deductible and not just toward the out‐of‐pocket expense. Or, having a maximum expense for prescription drugs each year that is different (less) than the out of pocket expense limit.

Drug expenses are too high for those on Tier 2 and Tier 3 drugs.a.More Dental providers in our network.b.If our current insurance can't handle this, maybe a different insurance provider.


Would you like to share a positive experience you have had?

Response

My primary care physician and my cardiologist participate with Aetna as does my counselor. I'm very grateful for this.

Francene has been a great help, she may not have the answer but is always willing to help find the answer or get me in contact with the right people. I think others need to utilize her help and services more often because she is here to help.

The Aetna representatives can be persuaded if you make an argument regarding an expense they initially denied.

The customer service representatives at Aetna are very friendly and helpful. I just wish I didn't have to speak with them quite so often.

I would have to think hard to find one. I guess it could be when My doctor finally got a key medicine coverage restored after Catamaran fought it for 6 months.

If I had one to share!

I have had not problems, an improved plan for me over what was previous.

None

I was able to print my insurance cards from the website.

I appreciate the hooswell rewards that does put a smile on my face when I receive the reward in on my paycheck.

Response

Haven't had anything positive with

no

?...

No

I have not had a positive experience with Aetna.

I have had absolutely no positive experiences with Aetna and I had to use their services quite a bit in 2016.

lol...with Aetna? There hasn't been any.

no

My experiences with the previous Anthem plan were good. I've had no positive experiences with Aetna.

N/A


Response

I would share a positive experience if I had one.

I was able to get all 4 of my prescriptions in generics so the price has actually gone down on those. I also do like the ease of all of their online access and being able to find all of your information.

Aetna service representatives are extremely polite and helpful when calling about a coverage issue.

I have not had a positive experience with Aetna.

I have lost 20 pounds because of walking and working out since starting the HoosWell programs.

Hoos Well‐‐great programs. I have enjoyed being a part of the Weight Watchers @ Work program and have lost weight doing it. It's nice to get a reimbursement for some of the fee.

I would be happy to share a positive experience

N/A at this time.


Comments/Suggestions:Response

I think if there could be a quick link that the college creates to have the plans listed and the coverage would be great. Sometimes its difficult to go find this information, like the papers we were given when the plan was first launched. When Francene sends out emails with attachments I refer to those a lot because it easier to search her name than logging on to Aetna to find something.

If I lived in Charlottesville and had access to the medical center, I think this plan would work.a.This plan does not serve us well in Wise!b.I think the "savings" to the University is being paid out of Wise employees pockets ‐ one doctor visit at a time.c.I heard one comment that the good insurance was now the Medicare their parents have because it works better in Wise than this plan does.d.My best suggestion ‐ Put Wise back on Covacare! It worked with our doctors and hospitals.

Being able to add my spouse would make a big difference for me.

Build a medical center in Wise so that we can get comparable care!

All health care is going to increase in price. Individuals have to be proactive in dealing with the carrier to resolve issues.

Stay strong and be our voice!

Employees at UVa‐Wise are very student success centered. It almost seems selfish to try to keep COVA care compatible benefits for ourselves. Thanks for trying to make helpful changes!

Just try and do better for the staff and faculty of UVA‐Wise. We matter too.

Reduce premiums!

Response

Had a recent incident with a preventative procedure my spouse had to have done. He was assured on 3 different occasions that everything about it would be paid for. Later received a bill from anesthesiologist and was informed that they were not in network and we were responsible for the bill. Contacted our Insurance personnel and she contacted Aetna and it was taken care of, but this was after I called Aetna and was told to file an appeal.

thank you...

I've had a good experience so far, but I bought high assuming that the gamble (more $, more service IF needed) could pay off. It did, but of course, I might have ended up paying for Choice and not needing more than Basic. You just can't always predict what will be needed.

Far‐fetched, but I'll state it anyway: find something closer to Anthem that had a wide net of coverage for medical and dental.

Thank you for doing this. I do not expect you to work miracles.

go back to Anthem or coverage equal to Anthem

Thank you to the staff senate for your ongoing efforts. And a thank you to Francene in HR for her efforts, as well.

Great job, Natasha! I'm proud Staff Senate is behind this!

Comments/Suggestions:

new year's health insurance resolutions - uva wise...new year's health insurance...

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