2020 BENEFIT IMPROVEMENTS!
As of January 1, 2020, Kaiser Permanente Plans have the following changes:
HEARING BENEFIT
The hearing benefit covers hearing aids, including hearing aid examinations and fittings when authorized by a physician. The maximum has increased from $400 to $1,000 per ear and is still limited to one aid per ear during a period of three consecutive years.
VISION BENEFIT
| COVERED EXPENSE | IF YOU SEE A VSP PROVIDER | IF YOU SEE A NON-VSP PROVIDER |
|---|---|---|
| Lenses, frames, and contacts (once every 12 months) | the plan reimburses 100% up to $200 (was $150) | the plan reimburses 100% up to $200 (was $150) |
WEEKLY DISABILITY TIME LOSS BENEFIT
The maximum weekly benefit has increased as noted in the table. In addition, your weekly benefit cannot exceed 60% of your average weekly wage, up from 50%, as earned in the eligibility determination month.
| HOURS EMPLOYED IN ELIGIBILITY DETERMINATION MONTH |
OLD MAX WEEKLY BENEFIT | NEW MAX WEEKLY BENEFIT |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 80 | $0 | $0 |
| 80 but less than 120 | $180 | $270 |
| 120 but less than 150 | $240 | $360 |
| 150 or more | $300 | $450 |
With the implementation of the Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave Act, for any period when you are receiving or are eligible to receive benefits under the Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave Act, you will not be eligible to receive the Trust weekly disability benefit.
A Summary of Material Modification describing these changes have been sent to all Kaiser Plan participants. Please keep that document with your Summary Plan Description.