STUDENT BLUE. Blanket Open Access POS Certificate Booklet GA TECH

(1)

STUDENT BLUE

Blanket Open Access POS

Certificate Booklet

(2)

Certificate of Coverage

(Referred to as “Booklet” in the following pages)

BlueChoice Option POS

Underwritten by Blue Cross and Blue Shield Healthcare Plan of Georgia, Inc.

(herein called BCBSHP) An Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association having issued a

Group Blanket Master Contract To

GA TECH

hereby certifies that

 The persons and their eligible family members (if any) whose names are on file at the office of the Plan Administrator as being eligible for coverage have had the required application for coverage accepted and subscription charge received by BCBSHP. These persons are covered under and subject to all the exceptions, limitations, and provisions of said Group Master Contract for the benefits described herein;

 Benefits will be paid in accordance with the provisions and limitations of the Group Blanket Master Contract; and

 BCBSHP has delivered to the Plan Administrator the Group Blanket Master Contract covering certain persons and their eligible family members (if any) as Members of this Group program.

The Group Blanket Master Contract (which includes this Certificate Booklet, the Group Blanket Master Application and any riders and amendments) form the entire legal agreement (Contract) under which Covered Services are available. All rights which may exist, arise from and are governed by the Group Blanket Master Contract and this Certificate Booklet does not constitute a waiver of any of the terms.

The coverage described under this Certificate will be effective and will continue in effect in accordance with the terms, provisions and conditions of the Group Blanket Master Contract issued to your Group. This Certificate of Coverage overrides and replaces all contracts and/or certificates which may have been previously issued to you by BCBSHP.

C. Morgan Kendrick,

President

(3)

Si necesita ayuda en español para entender este documento, puede solicitarla sin costo adicional, llamando al número de servicio al cliente.

If you need Spanish-language assistance to understand this document, you may request it at no additional cost by calling Customer Service at the number on the back of your Identification Card.

(4)

Federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act Notices

Choice of Primary Care Physician

We generally allow the designation of a Primary Care Physician (PCP). You have the right to designate any PCP who participates in our network and who is available to accept you or your family members. For information on how to select a PCP, and for a list of PCPs, contact the telephone number on the back of your Identification Card or refer to our website, www.bcbsga.com. For children, you may designate a pediatrician as the PCP.

Access to Obstetrical and Gynecological (OB/GYN) Care

You do not need prior authorization from us or from any other person (including a PCP) in order to obtain access to obstetrical or gynecological care from a health care professional in our network who specializes in obstetrics or gynecology. The health care professional, however, may be required to comply with certain procedures, including obtaining prior authorization for certain services or following a pre-approved treatment plan. For a list of participating health care professionals who specialize in obstetrics or gynecology, contact the telephone number on the back of your Identification Card or refer to our website, www.bcbsga.com.

(5)

Notices

You should be aware that when you elect to utilize the services of a n Out-of-Network Provider for a Covered Service other than Covered Services provided by the Student Health Center, benefit payments to the Out-of-Network Provider are not based upon the amount billed. The basis of your benefit payment will be determined according to our Maximum Allowed Amount. YOU RISK PAYING MORE THAN THE COINSURANCE, DEDUCTIBLE, AND COPAYMENT AMOUNT DEFINED IN THIS CONTRACT AFTER WE HAVE PAID OUR REQUIRED PORTION.

Out-of-Network Providers may bill you any amount up to the billed charge after we have paid our portion of the bill. In-Network Providers have agreed to accept discounted payment for Covered Services with no additional billing to you other than Copayment, Coinsurance, and Deductible amounts. You may obtain further information about the network status of a Provider and information on out-of-pocket expenses by calling the number on your Identification Card or by visiting our website at www.bcbsga.com.

Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act

The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act provides for parity in the application of aggregate lifetime limits, calendar year dollar limits, and treatment limitations (day or visit limits) on mental health and substance abuse benefits with dollar limits or day/visit limits on medical/surgical benefits. In general, group health plans offering mental health and substance abuse benefits cannot set calendar year dollar limits, lifetime dollar limits, or day/visit limits on mental health or substance abuse benefits that are lower than any such dollar limits or day/visit limits for medical and surgical benefits. A plan that does not impose calendar year dollar limits, lifetime dollar limits, or day/visit limits on medical and surgical benefits may not impose such dollar limits or day/visit limits on mental health and substance abuse benefits offered under the Plan. Also, the Plan may not impose Deductibles, Copayment/Coinsurance and out of pocket expenses on mental health and substance abuse benefits that are more restrictive than Deductibles, Copayment/Coinsurance and out of pocket expenses applicable to other medical and surgical benefits.

Statement of Rights Under the Women’s Cancer Rights Act of 1998

If you have had or are going to have a mastectomy, you may be entitled to certain benefits under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 (WHCRA). For individuals receiving mastectomy-related benefits, coverage will be provided in a manner determined in consultation with the attending Physician and the patient, for:

 All stages of reconstruction of the breast on which the mastect omy was performed;

 Surgery and reconstruction of the other breast to produce a symmetrical appearance;

 Prostheses; and

 Treatment of physical complications of the mastectomy, including lymphedema.

These benefits will be provided subject to the same Deductibles and Coinsurance applicable to other medical and surgical benefits provided under this Plan. See the Schedule of Benefits.

If you would like more information on WHCRA benefits, call your Plan Administrator.

Victim of Family Violence

The laws of the State of Georgia prohibit insurers from unfairly discriminating against any person based upon his or her status as a victim of family violence.

(6)

Introduction

Welcome to Student Blue Open Access POS!

We are pleased that you have become a Member of our student health insurance Plan. We want to ensure that our services are both easy to understand and easy to use. We’ve designed this Booklet to provide a clear description of your benefits, as well as our policies and procedures.

The Booklet explains many of the rights and obligations between you and us. It also describes how to get medical care, what health services are covered and not covered, and what portion of the health care costs you will be required to pay. Many of the provisions in this Booklet are interrelated. Therefore, reading just one or two sections may not give you an accurate understanding of your coverage. You should review the entire Booklet as you are responsible for knowing the terms of your coverage.

Many words used in the Booklet have special meanings (e.g., Group, Covered Services, and Medical Necessity). These words are capitalized and are defined in the "Definitions" section. Refer to these definitions for the best understanding of what is being stated. Throughout this Booklet you will also see references to “we,” “us,” “our,” “you,” and “your.” The words “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Blue Shield Healthcare Plan of Georgia, Inc. The words “you” and “your” refer to the Member, Subscriber and each covered Dependent.

If you have any questions about your Plan, please be sure to call Customer Service at the number on the back of your Identification Card. Also be sure to review our website, www.bcbsga.com for information on how to locate a Provider, get answers to frequently asked questions, and access valuable health and wellness information. Thank you again for enrolling in the Plan!

How to Obtain Language Assistance

BCBSHP is committed to communicating with our Members about their health Plan, regardless of their language. BCBSHP employs a language line interpretation service for use by all of our Customer Service call centers. Simply call the Customer Service phone number on the back of your Identification Card and a representative will be able to assist you. Translation of written materials about your benefits can also be requested by contacting Customer Service.

(7)

Schedule of Benefits POS

In this section you will find an outline of the benefits included in your Plan and a summary of any Deductibles, Coinsurance, and Copayments that you are required to pay. Also listed are any Benefit Period Maximums or limits that apply. Please refer to the "What’s Covered" and “Prescription Drugs” sections for more details on the Plan’s Covered Services. Refer to the “What’s Not Covered” section for details on exclusions.

All Covered Services are subject to the conditions, exclusions, limitations, terms, and provisions of this Booklet including any endorsements, amendments, or riders.

To receive maximum benefits at the lowest out-of-pocket cost, you must receive Covered Services from an In-Network Provider. Benefits for Covered Services are based on the Maximum Allowed Amount, which is the maximum amount the Plan will reimburse for a Covered Service. When you use an Out-of-Network Provider you may be responsible for the difference between the Out -of-Network Provider’s billed charge and the Maximum Allowed Amount in addition to any Coinsurance, Copayments, Deductibles, and non-covered charges. This amount can be substantial. Please refer to the “Claims Payment” section for additional details.

Deductibles, Coinsurance, and Benefit Period Maximums are calculated based upon the Maximum Allowed Amount, not the Provider’s billed charges.

Essential Health Benefits provided within this Booklet are not subject to lifetime or annual dollar maximums. Certain non-essential health benefits, however, are subject to either a lifetime and/or dollar maximum.

Essential Health Benefits are defined by federal law and refer to benefits in at least the following categories:

 Ambulatory patient services,

 Emergency services,

 Hospitalization,

 Maternity and newborn care,

 Mental health and substance use disorder services, including behavioral health treatment,

 Prescription drugs,

 Rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices,

 Laboratory services,

 Preventive and wellness services, and

 Chronic disease management and pediatric services, including oral and vision care. Such benefits shall be consistent with those set forth under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 and any regulations issued pursuant thereto.

(12)

Benefit Period Plan Year

Dependent Age Limit To the end of the month in which the child attains age 26 Please see the “Eligibility and Enrollment” section for further details.

Out-of Network Pre-Existing Condition Waiting Period

Please see the “Pre-Existing Condition Waiting Period” section for details.

Deductible In-Network Out-of-Network

Individual

No more than one individual Deductible per Member

$250 $300

Per Family

All eligible Members combined

$750 $900

Note: The Family Deductible is an aggregate Deductible. This means any combination of amounts paid by family Members toward Covered Services can be used to satisfy the Family Deductible.

The In-Network and Out-of-Network Deductibles are separate and cannot be combined.

The Deductible applies to all Covered Services unless otherwise indicated.

Copayments and Coinsurance are separate from and do not apply to the Deductible.

Any amounts applied to the Deductible for expenses incurred during the last three months of the Benefit Period will also be applied to meet the next Benefit Period’s Deductible.

Coinsurance In-Network Out-of-Network

Plan Pays 80% 60%

Member Pays 20% 40%

Reminder: Your Coinsurance will be based on the Maximum Allowed Amount, not the Provider’s billed charges. If you use an Out-of-Network Provider, you may be required to pay Coinsurance plus the difference between the Out-of-Network Provider’s billed charge and the Maximum Allowed Amount.

(13)

Out-of-Pocket Limit In-Network Out-of-Network

Out-of-Pocket Limit Per Plan Year

Individual $3,750 $6,000

Per Family

All eligible Members combined

$11,250 $18,000

The Out-of-Pocket Limit includes the Deductibles and Coinsurance you pay during a Benefit Period unless otherwise indicated. It does not include Copayments, charges in excess of the Maximum Allowed Amount, penalties for not obtaining required pre-authorization / precertification of services, Coinsurance paid toward Prescription Drugs or charges for non-Covered Services.

Once the Out-of- Pocket Maximum is satisfied, no additional Deductibles or Coinsurance will be required for the remainder of the Benefit Period.

The In-Network and Out-of-Network Out-of-Pocket Limits are separate and cannot be combined.

Important Information about Your Cost Shares

Under certain circumstances, if we pay a Provider amounts that are your responsibility, such as Deductibles, Copayments or Coinsurance, we may collect such amounts directly from you. You agree that we have the right to collect such amounts from you.

The tables below outline the Plan’s Covered Services and the cost share(s) you will be required to pay. In several spots you will see the statement, “Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.” In these cases you should determine where you will receive the service (i.e., in a doctor’s office, at an outpatient hospital facility, etc.) and look up that location to determine which cost share will apply. For example, you might receive physical therapy in a doctor’s office, an outpatient hospital facility, or during an inpatient hospital stay. For services in the office, look up “Office Visits and Physician Services.” For services in the outpatient department of a hospital, look up “Outpatient Facility Services.” For services during an inpatient hospital stay, look up “Inpatient Services.”

Benefits In-Network Out-of-Network

The Deductible applies to all services unless otherwise indicated below.

Allergy Services Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Ambulance Services (Land / Air) When Medically Necessary

Copayment $100 per trip $100 per trip

Coinsurance 10% 10%

Out-of-Network Providers may also bill you for any charges that exceed the Plan’s Maximum Allowed Amount.

(14)

Autism Services Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Behavioral Health Services See “Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.”

Cancer Clinical Trial Programs for Children Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Cardiac Rehabilitation Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Chemotherapy Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Chiropractic Services / Manipulation Therapy Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Dental Services Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Diabetes Equipment, Education, and Supplies Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Diagnostic Services Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Dialysis / Hemodialysis Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and Medical Devices, Orthotics, Prosthetics, Medical and Surgical Supplies (Received from a Supplier)

20% 40%

The cost-shares listed above only apply when you receive the equipment or supplies from a third-party supplier. If you receive the equipment or supplies directly from the prescribing Provider, attending Physician or Facility, benefits will be based on the setting in which the covered equipment or supplies are received.

(15)

Benefits In-Network Out-of-Network Emergency Services

Emergency Room

 Emergency Room Facility Charge

 Copayment

 Coinsurance

$50 10%

Copayment waived if admitted

 Emergency Room Physician Charge Coinsurance

10%

 Other Facility Charges (including diagnostic x-ray and lab services, medical supplies) Coinsurance

20% 40%

 Advanced Diagnostic Imaging (including MRIs, CAT scans) Coinsurance

20% 40%

Non-emergency use of Emergency Room Services Not Covered

Out-of-Network Providers may also bill you for any charges that exceed the Plan’s Maximum Allowed Amount.

Home Care

 Home Care Visits

Copayment / Coinsurance

$25 40%

 Home Dialysis Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Home Infusion Therapy Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Other Home Care Services / Supplies Coinsurance

20% 40%

Home Care Benefit Maximum 100 visits per Benefit Period In- and Out-of-Network combined

The limit does not apply to Home Infusion Therapy or Home Dialysis.

Home Infusion Therapy See “Home Care”

(16)

Benefits In-Network Out-of-Network Human Organ and Tissue Transplant (Bone

Marrow / Stem Cell) Services

Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received

 Precertification required

 Transportation and Lodging Limit Covered, as approved by us, up to $10,000 per transplant In- and Out-of-Network combined

 Donor Search Limit

(Unrelated donor searches for bone marrow/stem cell transplants for a Covered Transplant Procedure)

Covered, as approved by us, up to $30,000 per lifetime, In- and Out-of-Network combined.

Infertility Services See “Reproductive Health Services.”

Inpatient Facility Services

Facility Room & Board Charge:

 Hospital / Acute Care Facility Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Skilled Nursing Facility Coinsurance 20% 40% Skilled Nursing Facility Benefit Maximum 150 days per Benefit Period

In- and Out-of-Network combined

 Mental Health / Substance Abuse Facility Coinsurance

20% 40%

 Other Facility Services / Supplies (including diagnostic lab/x-ray, medical supplies, therapies, anesthesia) Coinsurance

20% 40%

Physician Services for:

 General Medical Care / Evaluation and Management (E&M) Coinsurance

20% 40%

 Surgery Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Maternity (Global Obstetrical Care includes Physician care for pre-and post-natal and delivery) Coinsurance

20% 40%

(17)

Benefits In-Network Out-of-Network Mammograms (Outpatient)

 Diagnostic MammogramsCoinsurance 20% 40%

 Routine Mammograms See “Preventive Care”

Maternity Services See “Reproductive Health Services”

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Office Visits and Physician Services

 Primary Care Physician (PCP) Copayment / Coinsurance

$25 40%

 Specialist Physician (SCP) Copayment / Coinsurance

$40 40%

 Maternity / Prenatal Office Visit

Copayment / Coinsurance, Global Obstetrical Care Copayment applies to first pre-natal visit only

$25 40%

 Retail Health Clinic Visit Copayment / Coinsurance

$25 40%

 Counseling (including family planning) Copayment / Coinsurance Covered in PCP / SCP Copayment 40%  Nutritional Counseling Copayment / Coinsurance Covered in PCP / SCP Copayment 40%

Nutritional Counseling Benefit Maximum 4 visits Nutritional Counseling for Diabetes Benefit

Maximum

Unlimited

 Allergy Testing & Shots (other than allergy serum) Copayment / Coinsurance

Covered in PCP / SCP Copayment

40%

 Diagnostic Lab (non-preventive) Coinsurance

0% No Deductible 30%

 Diagnostic x-ray (non-preventive) Copayment / Coinsurance

40%

 Diagnostic Tests (non-preventive; including hearing and EKG) Copayment / Coinsurance

(18)

20% 40%

 Mental Health and Substance Abuse Outpatient Services

$25 40%

 Office Surgery Coinsurance 20% 40% Therapy Services:

 Chiropractic Care / Manipulation Therapy Copayment / Coinsurance

$25 40%

 Physical & Occupational Therapy Copayment / Coinsurance

$25 40%

 Speech Therapy

$25 40%

 Respiratory and Pulmonary Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Cardiac Rehabilitation Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Dialysis / Hemodialysis Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Radiation / Chemotherapy / Non-Preventive Infusion & Injection Coinsurance

20% 40%

See “Therapy Services” for details on Benefit Maximums.

 Prescription Drugs Dispensed in the Office (includes allergy serum) Coinsurance

20% 40%

Orthotics See “Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and Medical

Devices, Orthotics, Prosthetics, Medical and Surgical Supplies”

Outpatient Facility Services

 Facility Surgery Charge Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Other Facility Surgery Charges (including diagnostic x-ray and lab services, medical supplies) Coinsurance

20% 40%

 Physician Surgery Charges Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Other Physician Charges (including Anesthesiologist, Pathologist, Radiologist, Surgical Assistant) Coinsurance

(19)

 Other Facility Charges (for procedure rooms or other ancillary services) Coinsurance

20% 40%

 Outpatient Mental Health / Substance Abuse Facility Charge Coinsurance

20% 40%

 Outpatient Mental Health / Substance Abuse Physician Charges

$25 40%

 Partial Hospitalization Program / Intensive Outpatient Program Services Coinsurance

20% 40%

 Diagnostic Lab Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Diagnostic X-ray Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Diagnostic Tests: Hearing, EKG, etc. (Non-Preventive) Coinsurance

20% 40%

Therapy Services:

 Chiropractic Care / Manipulation Therapy Coinsurance

20% 40%

 Physical & Occupational Therapy Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Speech Therapy Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Cardiac Rehabilitation Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Respiratory and Pulmonary Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Radiation / Chemotherapy / Non-Preventive Infusion & Injection Coinsurance

20% 40%

 Dialysis / Hemodialysis Coinsurance 20% 40% See “Therapy Services” for details on Benefit

Maximums.

 Prescription Drugs Dispensed in an Outpatient Facility Coinsurance

20% 40%

Physical Therapy Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

(20)

Benefits In-Network Out-of-Network Preventive Care

Deductible waived for preventive care services through age 5.

0% No Deductible 30%

Prosthetics See “Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and Medical

Devices, Orthotics, Prosthetics, Medical and Surgical Supplies”

Pulmonary Therapy Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Radiation Therapy Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Rehabilitation Services Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Reproductive Health Services

 Maternity

 Infertility Limited to diagnostic services and treatment

Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Respiratory Therapy Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Skilled Nursing Facility See “Inpatient Services”

Speech Therapy Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

Surgery Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

(21)

Benefits In-Network Out-of-Network Telemedicine

 Facility Services Coinsurance 20% 40%

 Primary Care Physician (PCP) Copayment / Coinsurance

$25 40%

 Specialist Physician (SCP) Copayment / Coinsurance

$40 40%

Therapy Services Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received.

In- and Out-of-Network visits combined. Office and Outpatient visits combined

Benefit Visit Maximum(s):

 Physical & Occupational Therapy 20 per Benefit Period

 Speech Therapy 20 per Benefit Period

 Chiropractic Care / Manipulation Therapy 20 per Benefit Period

 Cardiac Rehabilitation 36 per Benefit Period

Notes: The limits for physical, occupational, and speech therapy will not apply when provided as part of the Hospice benefit.

When physical, occupational, speech therapy, or cardiac rehabilitation is rendered in the home, the Home Care Visit limit will apply instead of the Therapy Services limits listed above.

Transplant Services See “Human Organ and Tissue Transplant (Bone

Marrow / Stem Cell) Services”

Urgent Care Services

Coinsurance

10% 40%

Vision Services for treatment of acute conditions (excludes routine vision care)

Benefits are based on the setting in which Covered Services are received

(22)

Prescription Drug Benefits In-Network Out-of-Network

Each Prescription Drug will be subject to a cost share (e.g., Copayment) as described below. If your Prescription Order includes more than one Prescription Drug, a separate cost share will apply to each covered drug. You will be required to pay the lesser of your scheduled cost share or the Maximum Allowed Amount.

Day Supply Limitations – Prescription Drugs will be subject to various day supply and quantity limits. Certain Prescription Drugs may have a lower day-supply limit than the amount shown below due to other Plan requirements such as prior authorization, quantity limits, and/or age limits and utilization guidelines. No day supply or quantity limits apply to prescriptions for inhalants to treat asthma.

Retail Pharmacy (In-Network and Out-of-Network)

30 days

Home Delivery (Mail Service) Pharmacy 90 days

Specialty Pharmacy (In-Network and Out-of-Network, including Specialty Home Delivery)

30 days

Retail Pharmacy

Tier 1 Prescription Drugs Copayment $15

Home Delivery Pharmacy – (Maintenance Only)

Note: Prescription Drugs will always be dispensed as ordered by your Physician. You may request, or your Physician may order, the Tier 2 or Tier 3 drug. However, if a Tier 1 drug is available, you will be responsible for the difference in the cost between the Tier 1 and Tier 2 or Tier 3 drug, in addition to your Tier 1 Copayment.

Tier 4 Note:

The Prescription Out-of-Pocket maximum is combined for In-Network and Out-of-Network, Retail and Home Delivery. The Prescription Drug Out-of-Pocket maximum is separate and does not apply toward any other Out-of-Pocket Limit for Covered Services in this Plan.

(23)

How Your Plan Works

Introduction

Your Plan is a POS plan. The Plan is divided into two sets of benefits: In-Network and Out-of-Network. If you choose an In-Network Provider, you will pay less in out-of-pocket costs, such as Copayments, Deductibles, and Coinsurance. If you use an Out-of-Network Provider, you will have to pay more in out-of-pocket expenses.

Student Health Services and Benefits

In addition to your Open Access POS benefits, you also have coverage for s pecific Covered Services provided by the Stamps Health Services. Please visit the school’s webpage at

http://studentbluega.com/gatech for details pertaining to how to access these services.

In-Network Services and Benefits

A Member has open access to primary and specialty care directly from any In-Network Physician.

If your care is rendered by an In-Network Provider or as part of an Authorized Service, benefits will be provided at the In-Network level. Regardless of Medical Necessity, no benefits will be provided for care that is not a Covered Service. We have final authority to determine the Medical Necessity of the service.

In-Network Providers include Primary Care Physicians (PCP), Specialty Care Physicians (SCP), other professional Providers, Hospitals, and other Facilities who contract with us to perform services for you.

For services rendered by In-Network Providers:

1. You will not be required to file any claims for services you obtain directly from In-Network Providers. In-Network Providers will seek compensation for Covered Services directly from us. (You will still be required to pay any applicable Coinsurance, Copayments, and/or Deductibles.) You may be billed by your In-Network Provider(s) for any non-Covered Services you receive or when you have not acted in accordance with this Booklet.

2. Precertification is the responsibility of the In-Network Provider. (See the “Obtaining Approval for Benefits” section for further details.)

Please refer to the “Claims Payment” section for additional information on Authorized Services.

Out-of-Network Services and Benefits

Services which are not obtained from an In-Network Provideror as part of an Authorized Service will be considered an Out-of-Network service, unless otherwise indicated in this Booklet.

For services rendered by an Out-of-Network Provider, you are responsible for:

1. The difference between the actual charge and the Maximum Allowed Amount plus any Deductible and/or Coinsurance/Copayments;

2. Higher cost sharing amounts;

3. Services that are not Medically Necessary; 4. Non-Covered Services;

(24)

5. Filing claims; and

6. Making sure any necessary Precertification has been obtained. (Please see the “Obtaining Approval for Benefits” section for further details.)

How to Find a Provider in the Network

There are three ways you can find out if a Provider or Facility is in our network:

 Refer to your Plan’s directory of In-Network Providers at www.bcbsga.com, which lists the Physicians, Providers, and Facilities that participate in this Plan’s network.

 Call Customer Service to request a list of Physicians and Providers that participate in this Plan’s network, based on specialty and geographic area.

 Check with your Physician or Provider.

Cost-Sharing Requirements

Your Plan may involve Copayments, Deductibles, and/or Coinsurance, which are charges that you are required to pay when receiving Covered Services. Your Plan may also have an Out-of-Pocket Limit, which limits the amount of cost-sharing you must pay. Please refer to the “Schedule of Benefits” for details on the cost-shares that apply to this Plan. Also refer to the “Definitions” section for a better understanding of each type of cost share.

Crediting Prior Plan Coverage

If you were covered by the Group’s prior carrier / plan immediately prior to the Group’s enrollment with us, with no break in coverage, then you will receive credit for any accrued Deductible and, if applicable and approved by us, Out of Pocket amounts under that other plan. This does not apply to individuals who were not covered by the prior carrier or plan on the day before the Group’s coverage with us began, or to persons who join the Group later.

If your Group moves from one of our plans to another, (for example, changes its coverage from HMO to PPO), and you were covered by the other product immediately prior to enrolling in this product with no break in coverage, then you may receive credit for any accrued Deductible and Out of Pocket amounts, if applicable and approved by us. Any maximums, when applicable, will be carried over and charged against the maximums under this Plan.

If your Group offers more than one of our products, and you change from one product to another with no break in coverage, you will receive credit for any accrued Deductible and, if applicable, Out of Pocket amounts and any maximums will be carried over and charged against maximums under this Plan.

If your Group offers coverage through other products or carriers in addition to ours, and you change products or carriers to enroll in this product with no break in coverage, you will receive credit for any accrued Deductible, Out of Pocket, and any maximums under this Plan.

The BlueCard Program

Like all Blue Cross & Blue Shield plans throughout the country, we participate in a program called "BlueCard." This program allows you to receive Covered Services at the In-Network cost-share when you are traveling out of state and need medical care, as long as you use a BlueCard Provider. All you have to do is present your Identification Card to a participating Blue Cross & Blue Shield Provider, and they will submit your claims to us.

(25)

If you are out of state and an Emergency or urgent situation arises, you should receive treatment right away.

In a non-Emergency situation, you can find the nearest contracted Provider by visiting the BlueCard Doctor and Hospital Finder website (www.BCBS.com) or call the number on the back of your Identification Card.

You can also access Physicians and Hospitals outside of the U.S. The BlueCard program is recognized in more than 200 countries throughout the world.

Care Outside the United States – BlueCard_Worldwide

Prior to travel outside the United States, check with your Group or call Customer Service at the number on your Identification Card to find out if your plan has BlueCard Worldwide benefits. Your coverage outside the United States may be different and we recommend:

 Before you leave home, call the Customer Service number on your Identification Card for coverage details.

 Always carry your current BCBSHP Identification Card.

 In an emergency, go directly to the nearest Hospital.

 The BlueCard Worldwide Service Center is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week toll -free at (800) 810-BLUE (2583) or by calling collect at (804) 673-1177. An assistance coordinator, along with a medical professional, will arrange a Physician appointment or hospitalization, if needed.

Call the Service Center in these non-emergent situations:

 You need to find a Physician or Hospital or need medical assistance services. An assistance coordinator, along with a medical professional, will arrange a Physician appointment or hospitalization, if needed.

 You need to be hospitalized or need Inpatient care. After calling the Service Center, you must also call us to obtain approval for benefits at the phone number on your Identification Card. Note: this number is different than the phone numbers listed above for BlueCard Worldwide.

Payment Information

 Participating BlueCard Worldwide Hospitals. In most cases, when you make arrangements for hospitalization through BlueCard Worldwide, you should not need to pay upfront for Inpatient care at participating BlueCard Worldwide hospitals except for the out-of-pocket costs (non-Covered Services, Deductible, Copayments and Coinsurance) you normally pay. The Hospital should submit your claim on your behalf.

 Doctors and/or non-participating Hospitals. You will need to pay upfront for outpatient services, care received from a Doctor, and Inpatient care not arranged through the BlueCard Worldwide Service Center. Then you can complete a BlueCard Worldwide claim form and send it with the original bill(s) to the BlueCard Worldwide Service Center (the address is on the form).

Claim Filing

 The Hospital will file your claim if the BlueCard Worldwide Service Center arranged your hospitalization. You will need to pay the Hospital for the out -of-pocket costs you normally pay.

 You must file the claim for outpatient and Physician care, or Inpatient care not arranged through the BlueCard Worldwide Service Center. You will need to pay the Provider and subsequently send an international claim form with the original bills to us.

Claim Forms

International claim forms are available from us, the BlueCard Worldwide Service Center, or online at

(26)

Identification Card

We will provide an Identification Card to each Member enrolled in the Plan. When you receive care, you must show your Identification Card. Only a Member who has paid the Premiums under this Booklet has the right to services or benefits under this Booklet. If anyone receives services or benefits to which they are not entitled to under the terms of this Booklet, he/she is responsible for the actual cost of the services or benefits.

Consumer Choice Option

(Please note the following applies only if you purchased the Consumer Choice

Option at enrollment)

The Consumer Choice Option allows you to nominate an Out-of-Network Provider (limited to a Physician, dentist, podiatrist, pharmacist, optometrist, psychologist, clinical social worker, advance practice nurse, registered optician, licensed professional counselor, physical therapist, licensed marriage and family therapist, chiropractor, qualified athletic trainer (per OCGA 43-5-8), occupational therapist, speech language pathologist, audiologist, dietician, Physician’s assistant or Hospital) for specified Covered Services. Such nominated Providers must be approved in writing by BCBSHP and are subject to the normal rules and conditions which apply to a contracted In-Network Provider. These terms include reimbursement (who we pay and how much), utilization management protocols (Precertification procedures and our internal procedures enabling us to pay for Covered Services), Prescription Drug Formulary compliance (making sure we pay for drugs on our approved list), referral to In-Network or Out-of-Network Providers, and other internal procedures which BCBSHP normally follows. All Out-Out-of-Network Providers must be nominated, agree to participate and be approved.

Please remember that, while you may obtain benefits at In-Network levels from an approved, nominated Provider, these Providers have not gone through BCBSHP’s rigorous credentialing process, and they are not subject to BCBSHP’s quality assurance standards.

The nominated Provider is not an In-Network Provider (Preferred Provider) and has not been credentialed by BCBSHP. The Member alone is responsible for the selection of the nominated Provider and BCBSHP has not undertaken any credentialing or quality assurance measures regarding such nominated Provider. BCBSHP will not undertake to conduct routine quality assurance measures which are used for In-Network Providers (Preferred Providers). The Member should understand that any and all Physicians, Hospitals and any others who are not In-Network Providers (Preferred Providers) must be nominated by the Member (patient) and approved by BCBSHP prior to any services being performed by the Provider in order for the services to become eligible for Reimbursement at In-Network benefit levels.

For additional information, please contact your Plan Administrator.

Provider Nomination

Under the Consumer Choice Option, you may nominate any Hospital or provider listed above licensed to practice in the state of Georgia to render specified Covered Services. However, you do not have free unrestricted access to non-nominated providers or to providers who have been nominated by you but not yet approved by BCBSHP.

The nomination process includes several steps:

 You may obtain copies of the nomination form by calling 1-800-441-2273.

 Complete and sign the first section of the nomination form and give to your provider.

 The provider signs the second part of the form, indicating they may be interested in acting as your provider, subject to BCBSHP’s terms and conditions. The provider requests authorization for specific procedures (or ongoing medical treatment). The provider submits the form to BCBSHP.

(27)

 BCBSHP verifies the licensure of the provider and notifies the provider of the applicable fee schedule or potential reimbursement.

 The provider, after receiving the notice of the potential reimbursement, signs and returns the form to BCBSHP.

 BCBSHP notifies you and your provider if and when the fully completed form has been received and approved.

A decision will be made by BCBSHP within 3 days of the receipt of the fully completed nomination form. Please note that approval is made only for the requested procedures. Additional procedures must be requested and approved by BCBSHP.

It is important to remember that only after all these steps and all other Contract requirements have been followed are Covered Services paid when provided by a Non-Network Provider (Non-Preferred Provider).

(28)

Obtaining Approval for Benefits

Your Plan includes the processes of Precertification, Predetermination and Post Service Clinical Claims Review to determine when services should be covered by y our Plan. Their purpose is to promote the delivery of cost-effective medical care by reviewing the use of procedures, setting (place of service), and resources, and optimizing the Member’s health. These processes are described.

If you have any questions regarding the information contained in this section, you may call the Customer Service telephone number on the back of your Identification Card.

Types of Requests

 Precertification – A required review of a service, treatment or admission for a benefit coverage determination which must be obtained prior to the service, treatment or admission start date. For Emergency admissions, you, your authorized representative or Physician must notify us within 48 hours of the admission. For childbirth / maternity delivery admissions, Precertification is not required unless there is a complication and/or the mother and baby are not discharged at the same time.

Inpatient Precertification determinations are available by phone through BCBSHP's Precertification staff 24 hours a day, seven days a week for urgent/non-elective care that must be performed within 24 hours after the Precertification request, without which a significant threat to the patient's health or well-being will be posed.

Non-urgent/elective Precertifications can be requested during normal business hours (7:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. eastern time).

Precertification is a guarantee of payment as described in this section (and BCBSHP will pay up to the reimbursement level of this Contract when the Covered Services are performed within the time limits assigned by Precertification) except for the following situations:

 The Member is no longer covered under this Contract at the time the services are received;

 The benefits under this Contract have been exhausted (examples of this include day limits or maximum amounts);

 No benefits will be paid in cases of fraud.

Precertification approvals apply only to services which have been approved in the Precertification process and only as described in the approval. Such approval does not apply to any other services. Payment or authorization of such a service does not require payment of claims at a later date regardless of whether such later claims have the same, similar or related diagnoses.

 Predetermination – An optional, voluntaryProspective or Concurrent request for a benefit coverage determination for a service or treatment. We will review your Booklet to determine if there is an exclusion for the service or treatment. If there is a related clinical coverage guideline, the benefit coverage review will include a review to determine whether the service meets the definition of Medical Necessity under this Booklet or is Experimental/Investigative as that term is defined in this Booklet.

 Post Service Clinical Claims Review – A Retrospective review for a benefit coverage determination to determine the Medical Necessity or Experimental/Investigative nature of a service, treatment or admission that did not require Precertification and did not have a Predetermination review performed. Medical Reviews occur for a service, treatment or admission in which we have a related clinical coverage guideline and are typically initiated by us.

(29)

Most In-Network Providers know which services require Precertification and will obtain any required Precertification or request a Predetermination when necessary. Your Primary Care Physician and other In-Network Providers have been provided detailed information regarding these procedures and are responsible for assuring that these requirements are met. You will be held harmless if all network guidelines are followed and you receive services from an In-Network Provider. This means you will not be responsible for any bill in excess of the related cost -sharing that applies or bills for non-Covered Services. Generally, the ordering Provider, Facility or attending Physician will contact us to request a Precertification or Predetermination review (“requesting Provider”). We will work directly with the requesting Provider for the Precertification request. However, you may designate an authorized representative to act on your behalf for a specific request. The authorized representative can be anyone who is 18 years of age or older.

If you receive Out-of-Network services you will be responsible for ensuring that any necessary Precertification is obtained. If the services are determined to be not Medically Necessary, all charges for those services will be denied. Out-of-Network Providers are under no obligation to hold you harmless for those charges, so you may be responsible for the full amount of those charges.

Who is responsible for Precertification Services provided by an

In-Network Provider

Services provided by a BlueCard/Out-of-Network/Non-Participating Provider

Provider

 Member is responsible for Precertification.

 If Member fails to obtain Precertification, Member may be financially responsible for service and/or setting in whole or in part.

 For an Emergency admission -- you, your authorized representative or Physician must notify us within 48 hours of the admission or as soon as possible within a reasonable period of time.

We will utilize our clinical coverage guidelines, such as medical policy and other internally developed clinical guidelines, and preventative care clinical coverage guidelines, to assist in making our Medical Necessity decisions. These guidelines reflect the standards of practice and medical intervent ions identified as appropriate medical practice. We reserve the right to review and update these clinical coverage guidelines periodically. Your Booklet and Group Contract take precedence over these guidelines.

You are entitled to receive, upon request and free of charge, reasonable access to any documents relevant to your request. To request this information, contact the Precertification telephone number on the back of your Identification Card.

Request Categories

 Urgent – A request for Precertification or Predetermination that in the opinion of the treating Provider or any Physician with knowledge of the Member’s medical condition, could in the absence of such care or treatment, seriously jeopardize the life or health of the Member or the ability of the Member to regain maximum function or subject the Member to severe pain that cannot be adequately managed without such care or treatment.

 Prospective – A request for Precertification or Predetermination that is conducted prior to the service, treatment or admission.

 Concurrent - A request for Precertification or Predetermination that is conducted during the course of treatment or admission.

(30)

 Retrospective - A request for Precertification that is conducted after the service, treatment or admission has occurred. Post Service Clinical Claims Reviews are also retrospective. Retrospective review does not include a review that is limited to an evaluation of reimbursement levels, veracity of documentation, accuracy of coding or adjudication of payment.

Decision and Notification Requirements

We will review requests for benefits according to the timeframes listed below. The t imeframes and requirements listed are based on state and federal regulations. Where state regulations are stricter than federal regulations, we will abide by state regulations. If you reside and/or receive services in a state other than the state where your Contract was issued other state-specific requirements may apply. You may call the telephone number on the back of your Identification Card for additional information.

Request Categories and Timeframe Requirements for Decision and Notification Prospective Urgent

We must acknowledge receipt and notify you of what your benefits are determined to be within 72 hours from the receipt of your request for benefits. If additional information is needed, we must notify you within 24 hours after receiving to let you know what information is missing. We will contact you via telephone or in writing via facsimile or other fast means. You have at least 48 hours to provide the additional information needed to process your request for benefits.

If you request is denied in whole or in part, you will receive a notice of the denial within 72 hours after our receipt of the request for benefits or 48 hours after receipt of all the information needed to process your request for benefits, if the information is received in a timely manner as stated above. The notice will explain the reason for the denial and the plan provision upon which the decision is based. You have 180 days to appeal the decision. You may appeal the decision orally by telephone or in writing by facsimile or other fast means. Within 72 hours after we receive your appeal, if your claim is still considered urgent under the circumstances at the time of the appeal, we must notify you of the decision. We will notify you by telephone or in writing by facsimile or other fast means. If your claim is no longer considered urgent, it will be handled in the same manner as a Non-Urgent Care Pre-Service or Post-Service appeal, depending upon the circumstances.

Prospective Non-Urgent

We must acknowledge receipt and notify you of what your benefits are determined to be within 15 calendar days from the receipt of your request for benefits. If we need more than 15 days to determine benefits due to reasons beyond our control, we must notify you within that 15-day period that more time is needed to determine your benefits. In any case, we cannot take more than 30 days to determine your benefits. If you do not properly submit all the necessary information needed to make a benefit determination, we must notify you within five days after receiving your request to tell you what information is missing. You have 45 days to provide us with the information needed to process your request. The time period that lapses while we wait for receipt of t he necessary information is not counted toward the timeframe in which we must make the benefit determination.

If your claim is denied in whole or in part, you will receive a written notice of the denial within the timeframe noted above after receipt of all the information needed to process your request for benefits, if the information is received in a timely manner as stated above. The written notice will explain the reason for the denial and the plan provisions upon which the decision was made. You have 180 days to appeal an adverse benefit determination. Your appeal must be in writing. Within 30 days after a pre-service appeal is received, we must notify you of the decision in writing.

(31)

Concurrent

 Concurrent when hospitalized at the time of the request – We must acknowledge receipt and notify you of what your benefits are determined to be within 72 hours from the receipt of the request and prior to expiration of current certification.

 Concurrent Urgent when request is received more than 24 hours before the expiration of the previous authorization – We must acknowledge receipt and notify you of what your benefits are determined to be within 24 hours from the receipt of the request.

 Concurrent Urgent when request is received less than 24 hours before the expiration of the previous authorization or no previous authorization exists – We must acknowledge receipt and notify you of what your benefits are determined to be within 72 hours from the receipt of the request.

 Concurrent Non-Urgent – We must acknowledge receipt and notify you of what your benefits are determined to be within 15 calendar days from the receipt of the request.

If, after approving a request for benefits in connection with your illness or Injury, we decide to reduce or end the benefits that had been approved for you, in whole or in part:

 We must notify you sufficiently in advance of the reduction in benefits, or the end of benefits, to allow you the opportunity to appeal the decision before the reduction in benefits or end of benefits occurs. In the notice to you, we must explain the reason for reducing or ending your benefits and the plan provisions upon which the decision was made.

 To keep the benefits you already have approved, you must successfully appeal the decision to reduce or end those benefits. You must make your appeal to us at least 24 hours prior to the occurrence of the reduction or ending of benefits. If you appeal the decision to reduce or end your benefits when there is less than 24 hours to the occurrence of the reduction or ending of benefits, your appeal will be treated as if you were appealing a non-urgent care denial of benefits (see “Prospective Urgent” above).

 If your appeal for benefits is received at least 24 hours prior to the occurrence of the reduction or ending of benefits, we must notify you of the decision regarding your appeal within 72 hours of the receipt of your appeal. If your appeal of the decision to reduce or end your benefits is denied, in whole or in part, we must explain the reason for the denial of benefits and the plan provisions upon which the decision was made. You may further appeal the denial of benefits according to the rules for appeal of an urgent care denial of benefits (see “Prospective Urgent” above).

Retrospective

We must acknowledge receipt and notify you of what your benefits are determined to be within 30 calendar days from the receipt of your request for benefits. If more than 30 days are needed due to reasons beyond our control, we will notify you within the 30-day period that more time is needed to determine your benefits. In any case, we cannot take more than 45 days to determine your benefits. If you do not submit all the necessary information for your claim, we must notify you within 30 days of receipt to tell you what information is missing. You have 45 days to provide the information needed to process your claim. The time period that lapses while we wait for receipt of the necessary information is not counted toward the timeframe in which we must make the benefit determination.

If your claim is denied in whole or in part, you will receive a written notice of the denial within the timeframe noted above after receipt of all the information needed to process your request for benefits, if the information is received in a timely manner as stated above. The written notice will explain the reason for the denial and the plan provisions upon which the decision was made. You have 180 days to appeal an adverse benefit determination. Your appeal must be in writing. Within 60 days after receiving your appeal, we must notify you of the decision in writing.

(32)

If additional information is needed to make our decision, we will notify the requesting Provider and send written notification to you or your authorized representative of the specific information necessary to complete the review. If we do not receive the specific information requested or if the information is not complete by the timeframe identified in the written notification, a decision will be made based upon the information in our possession.

We will provide notification of our decision in accordance with state and federal regulations. Notification may be given by the following methods:

Verbal: Oral notification given to the requesting Provider via telephone or via electronic means if agreed to by the Provider.

Written: Mailed letter or electronic means including email and fax given to, at a minimum, the requesting Provider and the Member or authorized Member representative

Precertification does not guarantee coverage for or payment of the service or procedure reviewed. For benefits to be paid, on the date you receive service:

 You must be eligible for benefits;

 Premium must be paid for the time period that services are rendered;

 The service or surgery must be a covered benefit under your Plan;

 The service cannot be subject to an exclusion under your Plan, including but not limited to a Pre-Existing Condition limitation or exclusion; and

 You must not have exceeded any applicable limits under your Plan.

Care Management

Care Management is designed to help promote the timely coordination of services for Members with health-care needs due to serious, complex, and/or chronic medical conditions. Our Care Management programs coordinate benefits and available services and provide education to help meet health-related needs of Members who are invited and agree to participate in the Care Management Program.

Our Care Management programs are confidential and voluntary. These programs are provided at no additional cost to you and do not affect Covered Services in any way.

For Members who meet program requirements/criteria and who agree to participate, we will help the Member meet their identified health care needs. This is achieved through communication and collaboration with the Member and/or Member’s designated representative, treating Physician(s), and other Providers.

In addition, we may assist with coordination of care with existing community-based programs and services to meet the Member’s needs. Care coordination may include information regarding external agencies and available community-based programs and services.

STUDENT BLUE. Blanket Open Access POS Certificate Booklet GA TECH

STUDENT BLUE

Blanket Open Access POS

Certificate Booklet

Certificate of Coverage

BlueChoice Option POS

GA TECH

C. Morgan Kendrick,

President

Federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act Notices

Choice of Primary Care Physician

Access to Obstetrical and Gynecological (OB/GYN) Care

Notices

Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act

Statement of Rights Under the Women’s Cancer Rights Act of 1998

Victim of Family Violence

Introduction

Welcome to Student Blue Open Access POS!

How to Obtain Language Assistance

Table of Contents

Schedule of Benefits POS

How Your Plan Works

Introduction

Student Health Services and Benefits

In-Network Services and Benefits

Out-of-Network Services and Benefits

How to Find a Provider in the Network

Cost-Sharing Requirements

Crediting Prior Plan Coverage

The BlueCard Program

Identification Card

Consumer Choice Option

(Please note the following applies only if you purchased the Consumer Choice

Option at enrollment)

Obtaining Approval for Benefits

Types of Requests

Request Categories

Decision and Notification Requirements

Care Management