Coordinating With Other Plans
Q: Do I need to tell you if I am covered under the C&MA Health Plan and another plan like my spouse's employer plan or Medicare?
Yes, please tell us if you are enrolled in another health plan. When you have two insurance plans, specific rules apply for coordination of benefits between the plans. This includes Medicare, Medicaid, a spouse's employer plan, or any other coverage.
Q: If I am covered by two plans, will the first plan pay 80% and the second plan pay the other 20%?
Most likely not, but it depends upon each plan's rules and which plan is primary. Before making any decisions, you should carefully check both plans' rules. The C&MA Health Plan will not duplicate coverage (pay the typical amount on a claim already paid by the other company).
Q: What do I need to know now that I am turning 65?
Becoming Medicare eligible may significantly change your health coverage. Contacting Alliance Benefits at least four months prior to your or your spouse turning 65 will better prepare you for important decisions affecting your well-being.
Q: Who is my employer – my local church or the C&MA as a whole?
Your employer is your local church. The C&MA plan is a multi-employer plan, consisting of many local employers nationwide all participating in the same group health plan.
Q: If I am sill working after age 65 is my employer's plan would be primary?
Since the C&MA Health Plan is a multi-employer church plan, if your local employer (church) has fewer than 20 employees, Medicare will be the primary claims payer for the participant who is turning 65. You may wish to consider your health plan choices at this time. Contact Alliance Benefits for details.
Q: I work for a small employer (fewer than 20 employees). Am I required to purchase Medicare Part B?
If you choose to remain on the C&MA Health Plan, you are required to purchase Medicare Part B and to complete paperwork with Alliance Benefits prior to your 65th birthday.
Q: Does the C&MA Health Plan have a Medicare supplement?
No the C&MA does not have a Medicare Supplement. If you would like to leave the C&MA Health Plan and purchase a Medicare Advatage plan or Medigap supplemental plan, you may do so.
Q: If my spouse is younger can my spouse stay on the C&MA Plan when I go on Medicare?
You must remain on the C&MA Health Plan in order to continue covering your spouse.