The healthcare reform law provision that lets dependent children remain on their parents’ policies until they turn 26 takes effect as plans renew on or after Oct. 1, 2010.
Individual Members:
Special Open Enrollment Period Begins for Dependents to Age 26
LifeWise Health Plan of Oregon individual members may now enroll a dependent previously not eligible due to age during a special open enrollment period where he or she will not be subject to underwriting. The open enrollment period starts Aug. 1, 2011, and ends Aug. 31, 2011.
How do I know if my dependent qualifies for the special open enrollment period?
If your child was previously ineligible for coverage due to age (was 23 years or older), and your child is now currently under the age of 26 as of Sept. 1, 2011, then he or she qualifies for the special open enrollment period.
How do I enroll my dependent?
Complete the Age 26 Dependent Special Open Enrollment form.
Do I need to submit evidence of prior coverage (HIPAA certificate)?
Yes. If your dependent is over the age of 19, proof of creditable coverage may reduce waiting periods that may apply.
When will my dependent’s coverage begin?
If you enroll during this special open enrollment period, the effective date for dependent coverage is Sept. 1, 2011.
What is the special open enrollment period deadline?
The form to apply for dependent coverage during this special open enrollment period must be received by LifeWise on or before Aug. 31, 2011.
Where do I submit the special dependent enrollment form?
Fax or mail the completed form to:
Fax: (please fax only once)
888-773-6372
Mail:
LifeWise Health Plan of Oregon
MS 295
P.O. Box 91120
Seattle, WA 98111-9220
Small Group (defined as 2 to 50 employees):
LifeWise has decided to maintain coverage for dependent children to age 26 who are covered under small group policies as of June 1 and meet all other criteria in current contracts. This coverage will be maintained even if they no longer meet the current age or student status requirement for dependent child coverage before Oct. 1, 2010. This policy change automatically applies to dependent children who are currently covered under small group policies and who would normally no longer be eligible for coverage as of June 1, 2010 or later.
Large Group (51 or more employees):
Large fully-insured groups, self-funded groups and associations have the option to maintain coverage for adult dependent children to age 26 as of June 1, even if they no longer meet the current age or student status requirement for dependent child coverage before Oct. 1, 2010. The policy change is not automatic, and will only be applied at the request of the employer.
For More Info
If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact your LifeWise account manager or your producer. Or read this FAQ.
Sample Letters and E-mail/ Voice Mail Script for Employers
(documents are .pdf unless otherwise noted):
Small Group
Large Group
E-mail/ Voice Mail script (.doc)
