BAC Journal > IHF Provides Top Quality Benefits for Canadian Members

IHF Provides Top Quality Benefits for Canadian Members

2017 Issue 4
International Funds

The BAC IHF keeps its focus on the members and their families to deliver top quality benefits at the most competitive rates. Early in 2017, the IHF conducted a comprehensive market evaluation of Canadian insurance carriers and administrators. It had been over 15 years since any change in carrier for the Canadian plan.  In reviewing the market, a new benefits administrator, NexgenRx was selected. The Canadian health benefits plan moved to NexgenRx, effective July 1, 2017, for medical, dental and prescription drug benefits. Subsequently, our Canadian members received new plan ID cards.

The benefits program in effect with NexgenRx mirrors the prior plan that had been administered by Industrial Alliance for many years. At the same time, the IHF added ManuLife, a well-respected large carrier in Canada to provide short-term disability benefits, life insurance, and accidental death insurance for our Canadian members.

Although any change comes with challenges, the transition to the new plan administrator is completed and the program is up and running!

 

Prescription Drug Card Implemented for all Members

NexgenRx enabled the plan to provide for a Drug Card to use at the pharmacy for all members.  The card is recognized at the pharmacy and the member pays the plan copay at the point of service. No claims forms are required to be submitted. 

Approaches that have been in place for many years in the U.S. were added to the plan to promote continued cost effectiveness. For example, a mandatory generic drug program was implemented with Nexgen Rx.

For higher cost prescription drugs, sometimes referred to as specialty drugs, NexgenRx will work with each member if they require a drug that costs $10,000. NexgenRx’s network, Canadian Provinces, and drug manufactures work together to ensure that each member receives provincial and drug company’s assistance available. The plan includes a $10,000 per molecule drug maximum per covered individual. If a Canadian member or their family needs assistance, a NexgenRx representative will be there to help with every step.  In addition, the IHF office staff in Newfoundland or New Brunswick are always a phone call away.

Out of Country Services

Effective November 1, 2017, there is a change in the Travel Provider with NexgenRx. Members will be receiving a new card shortly in the mail with the new provider phone number in case of Emergency while travelling.

NexgenRx Launches New Member Website

NexgenRx launched its new and improved member website: memberweb.nexgenrx.com. The site can also be accessed via its corporate website at nexgenrx.com under the Login Tab. Member online services allow you to:

  • Update your user profile
  • Review personal information
  • Review plan/benefit details
  • View claims activity
  • Submit claims
  • View resources
  • Print your benefit card
  • Self-Serve with Frequently Asked Questions

In order to access the site, members need their User ID and Password.  If a member lost or forgot login credentials, contact NexgenRx Member Help Desk at 1-866-424-0257 for assistance.

Looking Ahead

By selecting NexgenRx, there were reductions in the overall plan administrative costs and additional services for members. NexgenRx allows for more electronic transmission of claims (Health, Dental, Drugs) in the long run translates to improved service and easier ongoing administration.

We have already seen significant returns on these changes with NexgenRx amounting to savings to the Canadian Health & Welfare Fund. In today’s health care era, the IHF continues to monitor services and costs to deliver quality benefits for its Canadian members.