CRONA
Committee for Recognition of Nursing Achievement
Area Representatives and Membership Meeting
July 2 & 7, 2009

The Hot Topic of Healthcare

If you read the newspaper or listen to any news telecast, you know that healthcare is a hot topic on Capitol Hill.

It has also become a hot topic at SHC/ LPCH, especially with the latest request for information to provide proof of eligibility for your dependents.

SHC and LPCH have agreed to provide us with health care coverage as stated in the CRONA contract, Section 9.3.1 SHC, Section 8.3.1 LPCH.

What’s Offered (The basics for most nurses)
Medical Care:

1. Kaiser HMO is a free plan for you and your children.
2. Anthem Blue Cross HMO requires a substantial monthly fee but broad coverage with low co-pays.
3. Anthem Blue Cross PPO requires no monthly fee for you and your children but higher deductibles and co pays.
4. Optional coverage for spouse or eligible domestic partner is available at a group rate.`
5. Children qualify if they are natural, legally adopted, children of your spouse living with you, and children for whom you have a legal guardianship. (See Booklet A in the Benefits handbook).

Included with your medical coverage are the Vision Service Plan and Delta Dental.

The many changes in our medical coverage make it difficult to know exactly what coverage some of us are left with. For example:

• In September 2008, Human Resources presented us with a Benefits Enhancement Package that left many nurses confused and not sure what to choose.
• In May 2009, we were presented with a “Dependent Eligibility Review Package” requiring lengthy documentation to prove dependent eligibility status (Verify Solutions).
• It is inevitable that some dependents may be mistakenly declared ineligible leaving them without medical coverage when indeed they are eligible.

Navigating the Waters of Protecting Your Coverage

Communicate:

• Send in all documentation required by Verify Solutions (blacking out other personal information).
• Contact Verify Solutions: Phone number 1 866 734 7080 or Fax1 866 325 4638.
• You can also call the Benefits Office (now called HR Business Center): Phone 723-4748 as problems arise.
• You can also go on line at www.HR4UonLine.org. When communicating with HR4U ask for email confirmation and synopsis of your conversation.

Document:
If you have concerns about your coverage log on to HR4U.

Take Action:
Call CRONA (366-0156) if your situation is unique or you feel like you are not getting solutions.

John Green, RN
Legislative Representative
CRONA

Other Topics:

CRONA Vice President LPCH

Applications are currently being accepted for the Vice President LPCH position.

The term of office will expire November 30, 2010.
Please mail, email, or fax your application to the:
Ballot Committee
499 Seaport Court, Suite 202
Redwood City, CA 94063
Email: crona@crona.org

Fax: 650-366-0182

Deadline for submitting applications is July 31, 2009. CRONA Consent to Serve
We encourage interested members from LPCH to apply.
It is an interesting and challenging paid leadership position.
Writing, electronic and diplomatic skills are required.
The responsibilities are outlined in the CRONA Bylaws and
can be accessed at www.crona.org.