• Each plan had great features we thought could be incorporated into an enhanced plan with more provider options (UIChoice has a larger network and out-of-network care options).
• Increasing costs necessitated a health insurance benefit redesign in order to control health care costs without losing health care benefits.
• The University of Iowa is self-insured. By having fewer plans, we have a larger risk pool. The larger the pool of people, the less likely one or two big claims can cause a large increase in premiums.

Q: How do I choose between UIChoice and CHIP II?
A: Important decisions require thorough analysis. Review the Comparison Sheet and Usage Guides, and utilize the tools on the Benefits Office website: the Three Steps to Picking a Health Plan document and/or the online plan selection tool. If you would like personal assistance comparing your current and anticipated health care needs against the two plans, you may contact the UI Health Plans Office at 319-356-8442 or 800-356-8442.

Q: How do I choose between UIGRADCare and SHIP?
A: Important decisions require thorough analysis. Review the Comparison Sheet and Usage Guides, and utilize the tools on the Benefits Office website: the Three Steps to Picking a Health Plan document and/or the online plan selection tool. If you would like personal assistance comparing your current and anticipated health care needs against the two plans, you may contact the UI Health Plans Office at 319-356-8442 or 800-356-8442.

Q: My family did not receive ID cards for each member. How do I get their ID cards?
A: Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Iowa will issue 1 or 2 ID cards per family. The ID number will have a 3-letter prefix, three numbers, two letter, and four numbers. Only the policyholder's name will appear on the ID card(s). You can order additional ID cards by calling Wellmark customer service at 1-800-355-2031 or order ID cards online.

Q: I went to the pharmacy to fill a prescription for an injectable medication and had to pay for the entire prescription out-of-pocket. I was told there is no prescription coverage for this medication. What can I do to get coverage?
A: Injectable medications are not considered part of a prescription benefit structure. You will be asked to pay the entire amount at the time you receive your prescription when going to a pharmacy for the medication. To receive reimbursement for the prescription, you will need to submit the necessary documents to Blue Cross/Blue Shield for reimbursement if the pharmacy does not electronically submit the claim for you.

In order to only pay your co-insurance amount, you should take your prescription to a participating Home Infusion Agency to be filled. Please call UI Health Plans Office at 319-356-8442 or 800-356-8442 for assistance with transferring your prescription to a Home Infusion Agency.

Q: Is a contact lens fitting included as part of the routine vision exam?
A: No. Contact lens fittings are not covered.

Q: Why do my claims and explanation of benefits information have Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Iowa written on it?
A: While Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Iowa does not provide insurance coverage for The University of Iowa, they are responsible for the administration and paperwork necessary to pay the claims submitted by participants in the University health insurance plans. In addition, Wellmark maintains a provider network for our members, produces identification cards and benefit certificates, and performs various other administrative functions as directed by the University.

Q: Which company provides the health insurance coverage for The University of Iowa's health insurance plans?
A: The UI Health Plans are self-insured. That means the University and the participants in the health insurance plans share the cost of funding the program. The University, in conjunction with various university committees, establishes the benefit structure and rates for each of the plans.

Providing high-quality health care coverage for University of Iowa employees is a joint effort. Through the combined efforts of University staff, Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Iowa and the University administration, University of Iowa health insurance programs are designed to offer an affordable variety of benefits to meet the diverse needs of the University population.

Q: What should I do if I am concerned about access to providers for certain conditions or symptoms?
A: You are encouraged to schedule an appointment so you can talk directly with the clinic about your health care needs.

If you are uncomfortable with your appointment(s) as scheduled, and have discussed your concern with the clinic team, you may call the UI Health Plans Office at 319-356-8442 or 1-800-356-8442 to speak to a Case Manager about your condition and concerns. The Health Plans Case Manager will work with you and the providers involved to assist in resolving the issue.