Kaiser Permanente has released information pertaining to their individual and family health plans for 2017. Most of Kaiser’s health plans are available through Covered California and are eligible for the monthly tax credit subsidy. These standard benefit designs are also offered off-exchange, in addition to several non-standard benefit design plans only offered direct through Kaiser.
Covered California 2017 Individual and Family Dental Plans
For individuals and families who enroll in a health plan through Covered California they may also select a family dental plan. Any monthly subsidy awarded to the family for health insurance is not applied to the dental plan. Only household members eligible for the APTC monthly tax credit are able to enroll in an on-exchange Covered California dental plan. This means children who are Medi-Cal eligible or adults who have other coverage such as Medicare can’t be included in the family dental plan.
Covered California health and dental plan changes for 2017
Covered California hosted a webinar where they went over the numerous changes to the health plans for 2017. This included the expansion of some health plans into more counties, the conversion of PPO plans to EPO for one carrier, and the addition of a HMO plan for another carrier. They also reviewed the minor and major cost sharing changes to their metal tier level plans offered by all the carriers.
Expanded dental services for certain medical conditions from Anthem Blue Cross
Anthem Blue Cross is expanding some dental services for individuals who suffer from certain medical conditions such as heart disease, organ transplants, and people undergoing cancer treatment. The expanded cleanings and periodontal maintenance applies to members of Anthem Blue Cross dental plans effective January 1, 2016.
Anthem expands dental network into Mexico
The expanded network offers better dental discounts, bilingual doctors and staff, flexible appointment scheduling and ease of access into Mexico for health and dental care.