USW says it’s sticking with Highmark for health insurance
By John D. Oravecz, The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review | |
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services |
"It was an easy decision to keep covering our staff, their families and our members who rely on Highmark," said
"We are not going to let UPMC push us into irrational decisions when it comes to choosing a health insurance provider, especially when we are receiving outstanding service from Highmark," Gerard said. "Quite simply, we look to provide our people with the best health insurance services available."
Gerard said the union has a longstanding relationship with Highmark, and he noted his duty to ensure fiscal responsibility in decisions about health care benefits for both active and retired USW members and the union's staff.
Employer health plans cover more than half of Americans under retirement age, and in
The USW said it believes the
The reimbursement contract between the two health care giants expires in seven months.
"We certainly hope that Highmark and UPMC will reach an agreement, but if UPMC chooses continue its price gouging proposals and to eliminate affordable in-network access to Highmark members, we are prepared to take our health care needs elsewhere," said Gerard. "Our union stands behind the high-quality customer service and reliability of Highmark and will continue to do so."
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