January 3, 2006  

Ask us about...
Real Value Statement
total compensation statements online and in print. Winner, HR Executive Top HR Product. Watch this video.

Did you know...
that the average family in-network deductible for medical PPO plans is now $1,601.04, and the average for POS plans is $1,518.47?

 

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NEWSLETTER from Wischmeyer Benefit Partners

WELCOME to the inaugural newsletter from Wischmeyer Benefit Partners. We're excited to have this new connection with you! This newsletter will highlight trends in benefits and human resources that matter to our clients. We'll also keep you up-to-date on our service and product enhancements.


Wischmeyer Benefit Partners Brings You...

Senate Bill 51: New Employer and Carrier Responsibilities Regarding Coverage Termination
Group policyholders and Insurers are now required to provide coverage for the enrollee or participants, under the policy, until the end of the notification month. PLEASE NOTIFY CARRIERS IMMEDIATELY OF ANY TERMINATIONS. For more information, please visit: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us
 
Contacting Our Office:
For questions and concerns, please email us at groupbenefits@wischmeyerbenefitpartners.com. We'll be happy to direct your email to the appropriate party in our office and address urgent issues promptly. You may also contact us by phone at 972-663-7293 or toll-free at 800-293-8580.
 
Tips for the New Year:
1. Remember: calendar year deductibles start over 1/1/06 2. Update beneficiary information to keep it current. 3. Members may log in to insurance carrier websites to view: Benefit Summaries for your plans; Eligibility of Insurance; Temporary ID Cards; Claims Status. You may also be able to print temporary ID cards or order new cards online, depending on your carrier. HAVE A HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
 

Features of the Month
Resolve to have a healthy workforce this year. Prevention, and understanding symptoms, are key.
 
  Webzine  
 
  Wellness  
 
  Recent & Proposed Regulations  
  Exercise has benefits beyond the waistline. Read Exercise Your Body-and Mind. To find article: login, click on Webzine, Health Smarts section.(login below to view)  
 
  Know about influenza before it starts. See What causes flu? To find article: login, click on Wellness Education, section N-Z.(login below to view)  
 
  New plan limits go into effect on January 1. See the overview in 2006 Plan Limits. To find article: login, click on Recent & Proposed Regulations, any section.(login below to view)  

  Your WorkSpace
 
WorkSpace allows us to share documents securely with our customers. Watch this audio tour to see how it works.

Client Community is your private portal that puts you in touch with exclusive resources to help you stay informed. Your e-mail address is your User ID.
  HR News
(Employee Benefit News)
 

> Employees enlarge contributions to retirement
  American workers are beginning to catch on to retirement planning, if two new reports are any indication.
> Guide helps firms improve mental health benefits
  Given the high prevalence of depression, benefit managers may wish to scrutinize their company’s mental health ...
> HSA users may need enrollment and tax help
  The sophomore year for HSAs uncovered some issues that employers are attempting to resolve.
> Labor Department starts compliance assistance Web site
  Understanding Labor Department rules just got a little bit easier. The department set up a new Web site ...
> Retirees baffled by Medicare Part D, columnist says
  Retirees are overwhelmed by the number of Medicare Part D choices, and employers need to help them handle the confusion, observes ...

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