Emergency Contracts Extended
Its official…A nine month extension of emergency state health insurance contracts authorized several weeks ago was finalized this week. Now, the temporary, emergency contracts with Health Alliance, HealthLink and Personal Care initially set to expire in late September will remain in effect through the end of the fiscal year on June 30, 2012.
This is very good news for thousands of local families. Extending the emergency contracts will ensure families continue to have access to their trusted doctors and providers while the lawsuits challenging this year’s procurement process are resolved.
The emergency contract extension was finalized Wednesday with completion of a public hearing required by law and authorization by the Chief Procurement Officer.
When we return to Springfield in late October, I will immediately push to override the Governor’s veto of Senate Bill 178. You will recall that this is the legislation that would effectively “throw out” this year’s bids and bid awards for state health care contracts and extend the previous contracts for an additional two years.
Senate Bill 178 would also empower legislators on the state’s Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (COGFA) to oversee healthcare contracting decisions, including the authority to approve or deny proposed contracts.
Open Enrollment Dates Set
Dates have now been set for a new open enrollment period from October 10 through October 28 during which those who participate in the State of Illinois Group Insurance Plan can change health insurance carriers if they choose. All members will be sent a postcard notifying them of the time frames for this special enrollment period.
Remember, for those who want to keep their current insurance carrier, no action is required. The open enrollment is for those who want to change their carrier.
