Re: Supplemental Benefits: Bidders Update
Covered California’s board is committed to offering
consumers the option of purchasing supplemental vision and dental benefits. We
are also committed to providing consumers the same level of ease and access to
enroll in supplemental coverage that we offer for our affordable coverage
options. However, we have determined that CalHEERS will not be able to offer
supplemental vision and dental options with the first open enrollment in the
fall of 2013.
Processing the enrollment of individuals in Qualified Health
Plans offering essential health benefits is the system’s core functionality and
Covered California’s first priority. This core functionality must be developed,
tested, and implemented for fall enrollment, with coverage effective January 1,
2014, as mandated by law. Concurrently, the CalHEERS team will develop and test
the enrollment process for purchasing supplemental coverage. The launch of that
system will take place after the initial enrollment launch for essential health
benefits. This staged implementation will allow for a more seamless
implementation and successful end-user experience.
We are evaluating dates for offering the supplemental coverage
options, and assessing pathways to link consumers who will have already enrolled
in Covered California. This change in deployment may also impact the timing of
our solicitations for supplemental vision and dental coverage.
Covered California indeed recognizes the potential benefits
of offering consumers the option of purchasing vision and dental supplemental
benefit plans. Over the coming weeks, we look forward to working with you and
receiving your perspective.
We appreciate the work that your plan has invested in this
process, and look forward to continuing our relationship. Please feel free to
contact Michael Lujan at (916) 323-3615 with questions or concerns.
