IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING
IMPROVEMENTS TO YOUR HEALTH PLAN
Dear Participant & Family,
Effective November 1, 2006 the Alaska Teamster Trust plan is proud to announce the opportunity for substantial participant and plan savings through the variety of discounts offered through the Beech Street PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) Network (also known as "First Choice Health" in Washington). A recent participant survey indicated that our members are looking for more opportunities to save money on the cost of their health care. By using the Beech Street PPO Network, you will pay less out of pocket. This is because the providers of the PPO network have contracted to provide their services at a lower negotiated rate! In addition, as a benefit to you for using the PPO network your benefits will be paid at 80% after deductible rather than the 70% you are currently receiving for a non-PPO provider. An approximant 10% savings on every PPO claim!
It is very important that the Trust provide you with a good selection of physicians and hospitals to choose from. An extensive review of PPOs was completed to find the best fit for our members. The Trustees looked at cost, discounts, and the number and location of the providers in Alaska. Beech Street PPO Network is the best choice!
PLEASE, TAKE A MOMENT TO READ THE FAQ’S. THEY WILL HELP YOU TO GET STARTED WITH YOUR SAVINGS.
How do I receive my Discount?
Everyone in the Trust plan will receive a set of stickers. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you place a sticker on your medical ID cards to receive your discount.
- Please put your Beech Street PPO sticker on your ID card as shown below.
- You MUST show your provider your new sticker during your next appointment to receive your savings.
What are the benefits if I use providers in the network versus out of the network?
The plan pays 80% of your claim (after deductible) if you use a provider in the network. In addition, both you and the plan enjoy discounts from the provider. Otherwise, the plan pays 70% of your claim (after deductible) if you use a provider out of the network. Benefit plan details are available in your benefit book or online at the Trust website, www.959trusts.com.
Will I have to change doctors?
The network of providers under the Beech Street PPO Network is comprehensive with more than 3,800 hospitals and 400,000 providers nationwide. If you find your provider is not in the new network you will need to select a new doctor if you wish to receive the highest possible benefits from your health insurance.
How do I find out if my doctor is in the network or find a new doctor?
To access provider information, please go online to www.959trusts.com.
Click on ‘’ Find Network Providers “
In addition to the website, the phone number for Alaska Teamsters Trust Customer Service Office is (907) 565- 8300 or 1-800-478-4450 (toll free).
Will I be mailed a directory?
No. Printed directories are never as up to date as the 800 number or the searchable directory on the website and are very expensive to print and mail. Fortunately, you obtain a directory from the Alaska Teamsters website, www.959trusts.com.
What if I do not live near a Beech Street PPO Provider?
While we encourage our members to use the Beech Street PPO, we understand that Beech Street providers are not available everywhere. If you live in a rural area that does not have access to primary care physicians in the network, your benefits remain unchanged. If you travel for health services, look for a PPO provider.
Is it possible to add my doctor to the network if they are not listed as a Beech Street PPO Provider?
Yes. If you would like to endorse a doctor or practitioner for participation in the Beech Street network, you may submit your request form online. The application process is easy.
Go to www.beechstreet.com
Click on the “Providers” section
Click on the “Join the Network” link
Click on “Join Now!”
Fill out the requested information* and click “Submit Form”
*Completion of this form is for nomination purposes only and does not guarantee membership. Beech Street’s credentialing process takes 90 to 120 days once the application is received.
When is this effective?
The addition of PPO network is effective with dates of service November 1, 2006 and later. This means any doctor visits on or after November 1st are under the Beech Street network. Any doctor visits between now and November 1st will continue to be paid under the current plan benefits.
Sincerely,
Alaska Teamster-Employer
Welfare Trust
| 
