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Meijer, the well-known grocer and retailer, has announced a new partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) to offer a Medicare Advantage Plan. This marks the first time that BCBSM has partnered with a grocer, showcasing the unique collaboration between the two companies.
The new plan, called Medicare Plus Blue PPO + Meijer, will provide seniors with a variety of benefits, including a $0 monthly premium, $0 copay on many generic prescription drugs, and dental and vision coverage.
Additionally, members will receive an annual allowance of $660, which can be used for over-the-counter health and wellness items at Meijer stores. With the Medicare enrollment period approaching, this partnership will offer seniors in Michigan a convenient and cost-effective option for their healthcare needs.
Meijer partners with Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage Plan
Grocer and retailer Meijer is expanding its services beyond groceries by entering the health insurance field. In a groundbreaking partnership, Meijer has teamed up with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) to offer a Medicare Advantage Plan.
This collaboration marks the first time a grocer has partnered with a health insurer, demonstrating Meijer’s commitment to providing enhanced services to its valued customers.
According to Krischa Winright, President of Medicare Advantage at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, “So many of our Medicare Advantage members already love shopping at Meijer.
We’re ready to help members make the most of Medicare Advantage through this partnership with Meijer. Partnering with Meijer, another respected Michigan-based business, will enable us to meet more of our members where they want to be, making the most of the resources they’re most likely already using and lowering their out-of-pocket costs in the process.”
Partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
Through this partnership, Meijer will collaborate with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) to offer their Medicare Advantage Plan. BCBSM’s Medicare Advantage Plan is designed to meet the specific needs of members, and by partnering with Meijer, BCBSM aims to enhance resources and lower costs for its members.
This collaboration allows both Meijer and BCBSM to leverage their expertise and provide comprehensive services that prioritize customer wellness.
Medicare Plus Blue PPO + Meijer plan details
The new plan, titled Medicare Plus Blue PPO + Meijer, offers an array of benefits to seniors. This plan has a $0 monthly premium and annual deductible, making it an affordable option for Medicare Advantage members.
Primary care visits are covered, and there is a $0 copay on many generic prescription drugs when used at BCBSM’s in-network pharmacies. Additionally, dental and vision coverage are included, ensuring that members have access to a wide range of essential healthcare services.
Annual allowance for Meijer store purchases
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One of the unique aspects of the Medicare Plus Blue PPO + Meijer plan is the annual allowance for Meijer store purchases. This allowance can be used at any Meijer store throughout Michigan. Members will receive a quarterly allowance of $165 for health and wellness items.
Furthermore, any unused funds from the quarterly allowance will roll over to the next quarter, providing flexibility and ensuring that members can maximize the benefits of the plan. It’s important to note that these funds must be used by the end of 2024.
Members can also apply their yearly benefit allowance to healthy foods, such as fruits and vegetables if they have a qualifying chronic condition.
Qualifying chronic conditions
To provide support for members with chronic conditions, the Medicare Plus Blue PPO + Meijer plan identifies 19 different qualifying chronic conditions. These conditions include asthma, cardiovascular disorders, and diabetes. By recognizing and addressing these conditions, Meijer and BCBSM aim to improve the health and well-being of their members and empower them to make healthy
Rise in enrollment of Medicare Advantage plans
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Enrollment in Medicare Advantage plans has been steadily increasing over the last two decades. According to KFF (formerly the Kaiser Family Foundation), over half of the eligible Medicare beneficiaries are currently enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans.
The state of Michigan has seen a particularly high enrollment rate in Medicare Advantage plans, with 60% or more of Medicare beneficiaries in the state choosing these plans. This rise in popularity highlights the appeal and benefits offered by Medicare Advantage plans.
Medicare Plus Blue PPO + Meijer plan takes effect on Jan. 1, 2024
Starting from October 15th and ending on December 7th, eligible seniors can enroll in the Medicare Plus Blue PPO + Meijer plan during the annual Medicare enrollment period. Once enrolled, the plan’s benefits and coverage will begin on January 1, 2024. This offers members the opportunity to transition smoothly into the new plan and start utilizing its features and benefits.
In summary, Meijer’s partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan to offer the Medicare Plus Blue PPO + Meijer plan demonstrates Meijer’s commitment to customer wellness and providing comprehensive services beyond groceries. This collaboration enhances resources and lowers costs for members, offering them a wide range of benefits and coverage.
With the annual allowance for Meijer store purchases and coverage of qualifying chronic conditions, this plan further empowers members to take control of their health and make informed choices. As the popularity of Medicare Advantage plans continues to rise, the Medicare Plus Blue PPO + Meijer plan is well-positioned to meet the needs of seniors in Michigan, ensuring they receive the quality care they deserve.
