Benefit Details for CeltiCare Program for AWSS Immigrants Cut From CommCare

Attached to this posting is the list of covered services and copayment charges for the new CeltiCare program which will cover those 31,000 lawfully present immigrants who were cut from CommCare effective September 1st. 

The enrollment schedule is:  

October 2009--Boston region
November 2009--Northern and Southern regions
December 2009--Central and Western regions

Over the past weekend members were mailed a letter from Secretary Bigby informing them of the new plan.  See http://www.masslegalservices.org/node/27592 Members will be getting these letters in the mail this week. A follow up letter will be sent by the Connector when the member is scheduled to be enrolled.  This will include the attached benefit and copayment description.

In the interim period before enrollment in the new plan members are eligible for services through the Health Safety Net (HSN).  Approximately one-third of affected members are also eligible for emergency services through MassHealth Limited.  Members were informed of their eligibility for these programs in August at the same time they received notification that their CommCare benefits were ending.  The Administration is aware that some members may have serious health needs that cannot be met through Limited or the HSN and cannot wait until enrollment in the new health plan to be addressed. In these cases, members and advocates should call 1 877-MA ENROLL for help ensuring that Limited and HSN access is maximized during the interim period and to determine if additional gap coverage through MassHealth is appropriate until enrollment in the new plan.

Advocates will continue to meet with the Administration and CeltiCare representatives to ensure that the best possible roll out of this new product occurs. Keep Vicky and I appraised of client situations where this rather hodge-podge system is not working. (617)357-0700 ext 318 for Vicky and ext 309 for Neil.