EmblemHealth and plan sponsor, the City of New York, have agreed to settle a class action lawsuit regarding medical co-payments for Medicare-eligible retired City employees and their dependents enrolled in the GHI Senior Care health insurance plan.
Eligible class members may receive reimbursement for co-payments made from Jan. 1, 2022, to Jan. 31, 2023. "This settlement establishes a clear process to assist eligible members with reimbursement and ensures the continued stability of the GHI Senior Care Plan," said EmblemHealth spokesperson Alex Gomez.
New York City's retiree health coverage is robust compared to other government plans, and the City continues to offer a premium-free healthcare program for retirees, which is uncommon among large employers.
For more information, members can contact EmblemHealth customer service or visit emblemhealth.com.
Summary of Settlement Terms:
- Settlement Amount: The total settlement will not exceed $53 million.
- Reimbursement: Eligible class members may receive full or partial reimbursement for co-payments made between Jan. 1, 2022, and Jan. 31, 2023.
- Claims Release: Class members will release all claims related to this litigation as part of the settlement.
- Remaining Funds: Any funds remaining after all distributions required by the settlement will be retained by the defendants.
- Plan Status: Co-payments under the GHI Senior Care Plan, reinstated on Jan. 1, 2025, will continue as implemented.
Background on NYC Retiree Healthcare Coverage:
- Comprehensive Benefits: New York City's retiree health coverage remains robust compared to other government plans nationwide.
- Premium-Free Model: The City continues to offer a premium-free healthcare program for retirees, which remains uncommon among large employers nationally.
- Competitive Structures: Other government plans typically have similar or higher cost-sharing requirements, while the City's program continues to provide stability for retirees.
Contact:
EmblemHealth Public Relations Office | Email: press@emblemhealth.com