In an effort to continue providing generous health benefits to SIU members and their families—while at the same time combating the steadily rising costs of medical care—the trustees of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) are examining the possibility of entering an agreement with a national health network provider.If the SHBP signs on with a national network provider, one expected benefit is that Seafarers no longer would have to worry about doctors’ charges exceeding the “reasonable and customary” coverage limit. That’s because the network and its participating physicians agree to a set fee schedule.
“The Plan continuously evaluates methods of reducing costs without placing any additional burden on our participants,” noted SHBP Administrator Bill Dennis. “At this time, the Plan is in discussions with a network provider that may provide relief in this time of grossly increasing medical costs. More information will follow at a later date.”
Dennis emphasized that if an agreement is reached, it only will be with a network which features a very extensive participant list of providers and hospitals. He added that the health benefits plan of an SIU-affiliated union earlier this year joined a national health network, and the early returns have been quite favorable for that plan, its participating members and eligible dependents.
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