APS and new healthcare provider

Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Leaving Kaiser was such a great thing for our family. I wish people would just take a breath and realize that this doesn't have to be viewed as a catastrophe. Based upon what I've seen and heard from providers, those services that took forever to line up aren't nearly as challenging outside Kaiser. I personally experienced much faster care when we got out.

Also, I wish these things were kept in staff only pages. There is no reason to communicating this in front of parents.


Just left Kaiser because of a job change and everything is waaaay more complicated. Searching for doctors, searching to see whats covered, making appointments on several different apps to include the whole family, coordinating referrals for from doctor's offices and having to make a bunch of calls. So not everyone has your experience.

Genuine question, do many other plans require referrals? Kaiser is the only place that’s ever been an issue for me. I’ve asked for referrals from my doc via a mychart message but they haven’t been required on other plans (husband’s job switched yearly for a time)


It depends on the plan, some require referrals, some don't.
Anonymous
How was your experience at WL today? Wondering what I missed.
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I sympathize with you, APS teachers on Kaiser. It is not easy to find new doctors right now, but they’re out there. Good news is that this is likely a one time switch- most practices around here participate in many of the big plans.

As hard as this is, you not winning any supporters with this. Stop trying to get the parents to do your bidding for you. It’s unprofessional. The Board has a fiduciary duty to the taxpayers to ensure that the benefits that are being provided to you are being obtained at a reasonable cost commensurate with market rates. Insurance plans cost a whole lot more than the small fraction you individually pay.

Additionally - All of us in corporate land have been through insurer changes, along with massive YoY increases in premiums or deductibles, and limits on service. You are being offered what appears to be a great plan at a competitive cost. Stop threatening to quit or call out for days on end unless you’d like to come experience employer coverage out here in the wild.



Or maybe, just maybe we CARE about the kids we teach and feel bad that we will have to take days off because we know it sucks, but it is also the only way we are given. It isn’t a threat, just the reality of what we are facing.

This has nothing to do with insurance plans changing. I know some people are asking for more days off to "look for more doctors" That's nonsense. Most of this can be done online at any time of day. Even if not, our contract hours allow for phone calls.


No, my kid needs to be brought to a doctor so her multiple therapies can be approved. I need to take medicine for a chronic condition. I suppose after being in Kaiser for 20 years, I could be out of it, but I doubt a doctor will just approve and write a prescription without ever seeing me. I can pick a doctor out online, in fact I already have on the BCBS website. That doesn’t mean I can get him to prescribe meds sight unseen. We have to SEE the doctor and that can’t be done outside of contract hours.

It’s harder but not impossible. That’s an advantage non-Kaiser plans, more locations. I’ve taken 7:30 appointments and 4:30 several times before. That being said I absolutely think you should take sick time for the appointments if it’s easier for you!

I’m really confused over why this is such a big deal. Prescriptions are usually good for a while until they expire. The change in insurance wouldn’t be until the new year. Why couldn’t you get your prescriptions renewed with your old doctor first? Yes it’s annoying to get a new doctor but most people have to do that regularly anyways. Changing insurance is no big deal.
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I sympathize with you, APS teachers on Kaiser. It is not easy to find new doctors right now, but they’re out there. Good news is that this is likely a one time switch- most practices around here participate in many of the big plans.

As hard as this is, you not winning any supporters with this. Stop trying to get the parents to do your bidding for you. It’s unprofessional. The Board has a fiduciary duty to the taxpayers to ensure that the benefits that are being provided to you are being obtained at a reasonable cost commensurate with market rates. Insurance plans cost a whole lot more than the small fraction you individually pay.

Additionally - All of us in corporate land have been through insurer changes, along with massive YoY increases in premiums or deductibles, and limits on service. You are being offered what appears to be a great plan at a competitive cost. Stop threatening to quit or call out for days on end unless you’d like to come experience employer coverage out here in the wild.



Or maybe, just maybe we CARE about the kids we teach and feel bad that we will have to take days off because we know it sucks, but it is also the only way we are given. It isn’t a threat, just the reality of what we are facing.

This has nothing to do with insurance plans changing. I know some people are asking for more days off to "look for more doctors" That's nonsense. Most of this can be done online at any time of day. Even if not, our contract hours allow for phone calls.


No, my kid needs to be brought to a doctor so her multiple therapies can be approved. I need to take medicine for a chronic condition. I suppose after being in Kaiser for 20 years, I could be out of it, but I doubt a doctor will just approve and write a prescription without ever seeing me. I can pick a doctor out online, in fact I already have on the BCBS website. That doesn’t mean I can get him to prescribe meds sight unseen. We have to SEE the doctor and that can’t be done outside of contract hours.

It’s harder but not impossible. That’s an advantage non-Kaiser plans, more locations. I’ve taken 7:30 appointments and 4:30 several times before. That being said I absolutely think you should take sick time for the appointments if it’s easier for you!

I’m really confused over why this is such a big deal. Prescriptions are usually good for a while until they expire. The change in insurance wouldn’t be until the new year. Why couldn’t you get your prescriptions renewed with your old doctor first? Yes it’s annoying to get a new doctor but most people have to do that regularly anyways. Changing insurance is no big deal.


did you listen to the public comments at the Board meeting? One retired teacher called TEN doctor's offices and no one would accept her or her husband (who needs heart surgery).

maybe educate yourself before you diminish this. It IS a big deal.
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I sympathize with you, APS teachers on Kaiser. It is not easy to find new doctors right now, but they’re out there. Good news is that this is likely a one time switch- most practices around here participate in many of the big plans.

As hard as this is, you not winning any supporters with this. Stop trying to get the parents to do your bidding for you. It’s unprofessional. The Board has a fiduciary duty to the taxpayers to ensure that the benefits that are being provided to you are being obtained at a reasonable cost commensurate with market rates. Insurance plans cost a whole lot more than the small fraction you individually pay.

Additionally - All of us in corporate land have been through insurer changes, along with massive YoY increases in premiums or deductibles, and limits on service. You are being offered what appears to be a great plan at a competitive cost. Stop threatening to quit or call out for days on end unless you’d like to come experience employer coverage out here in the wild.



Or maybe, just maybe we CARE about the kids we teach and feel bad that we will have to take days off because we know it sucks, but it is also the only way we are given. It isn’t a threat, just the reality of what we are facing.

This has nothing to do with insurance plans changing. I know some people are asking for more days off to "look for more doctors" That's nonsense. Most of this can be done online at any time of day. Even if not, our contract hours allow for phone calls.


No, my kid needs to be brought to a doctor so her multiple therapies can be approved. I need to take medicine for a chronic condition. I suppose after being in Kaiser for 20 years, I could be out of it, but I doubt a doctor will just approve and write a prescription without ever seeing me. I can pick a doctor out online, in fact I already have on the BCBS website. That doesn’t mean I can get him to prescribe meds sight unseen. We have to SEE the doctor and that can’t be done outside of contract hours.

It’s harder but not impossible. That’s an advantage non-Kaiser plans, more locations. I’ve taken 7:30 appointments and 4:30 several times before. That being said I absolutely think you should take sick time for the appointments if it’s easier for you!

I’m really confused over why this is such a big deal. Prescriptions are usually good for a while until they expire. The change in insurance wouldn’t be until the new year. Why couldn’t you get your prescriptions renewed with your old doctor first? Yes it’s annoying to get a new doctor but most people have to do that regularly anyways. Changing insurance is no big deal.


did you listen to the public comments at the Board meeting? One retired teacher called TEN doctor's offices and no one would accept her or her husband (who needs heart surgery).

maybe educate yourself before you diminish this. It IS a big deal.


Maybe it’s a medicare issue ?
or she wanted an appt right away and they told her next month?
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I sympathize with you, APS teachers on Kaiser. It is not easy to find new doctors right now, but they’re out there. Good news is that this is likely a one time switch- most practices around here participate in many of the big plans.

As hard as this is, you not winning any supporters with this. Stop trying to get the parents to do your bidding for you. It’s unprofessional. The Board has a fiduciary duty to the taxpayers to ensure that the benefits that are being provided to you are being obtained at a reasonable cost commensurate with market rates. Insurance plans cost a whole lot more than the small fraction you individually pay.

Additionally - All of us in corporate land have been through insurer changes, along with massive YoY increases in premiums or deductibles, and limits on service. You are being offered what appears to be a great plan at a competitive cost. Stop threatening to quit or call out for days on end unless you’d like to come experience employer coverage out here in the wild.



Or maybe, just maybe we CARE about the kids we teach and feel bad that we will have to take days off because we know it sucks, but it is also the only way we are given. It isn’t a threat, just the reality of what we are facing.

This has nothing to do with insurance plans changing. I know some people are asking for more days off to "look for more doctors" That's nonsense. Most of this can be done online at any time of day. Even if not, our contract hours allow for phone calls.


No, my kid needs to be brought to a doctor so her multiple therapies can be approved. I need to take medicine for a chronic condition. I suppose after being in Kaiser for 20 years, I could be out of it, but I doubt a doctor will just approve and write a prescription without ever seeing me. I can pick a doctor out online, in fact I already have on the BCBS website. That doesn’t mean I can get him to prescribe meds sight unseen. We have to SEE the doctor and that can’t be done outside of contract hours.

It’s harder but not impossible. That’s an advantage non-Kaiser plans, more locations. I’ve taken 7:30 appointments and 4:30 several times before. That being said I absolutely think you should take sick time for the appointments if it’s easier for you!

I’m really confused over why this is such a big deal. Prescriptions are usually good for a while until they expire. The change in insurance wouldn’t be until the new year. Why couldn’t you get your prescriptions renewed with your old doctor first? Yes it’s annoying to get a new doctor but most people have to do that regularly anyways. Changing insurance is no big deal.


did you listen to the public comments at the Board meeting? One retired teacher called TEN doctor's offices and no one would accept her or her husband (who needs heart surgery).

maybe educate yourself before you diminish this. It IS a big deal.


No way this is true.
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I sympathize with you, APS teachers on Kaiser. It is not easy to find new doctors right now, but they’re out there. Good news is that this is likely a one time switch- most practices around here participate in many of the big plans.

As hard as this is, you not winning any supporters with this. Stop trying to get the parents to do your bidding for you. It’s unprofessional. The Board has a fiduciary duty to the taxpayers to ensure that the benefits that are being provided to you are being obtained at a reasonable cost commensurate with market rates. Insurance plans cost a whole lot more than the small fraction you individually pay.

Additionally - All of us in corporate land have been through insurer changes, along with massive YoY increases in premiums or deductibles, and limits on service. You are being offered what appears to be a great plan at a competitive cost. Stop threatening to quit or call out for days on end unless you’d like to come experience employer coverage out here in the wild.



Or maybe, just maybe we CARE about the kids we teach and feel bad that we will have to take days off because we know it sucks, but it is also the only way we are given. It isn’t a threat, just the reality of what we are facing.

This has nothing to do with insurance plans changing. I know some people are asking for more days off to "look for more doctors" That's nonsense. Most of this can be done online at any time of day. Even if not, our contract hours allow for phone calls.


No, my kid needs to be brought to a doctor so her multiple therapies can be approved. I need to take medicine for a chronic condition. I suppose after being in Kaiser for 20 years, I could be out of it, but I doubt a doctor will just approve and write a prescription without ever seeing me. I can pick a doctor out online, in fact I already have on the BCBS website. That doesn’t mean I can get him to prescribe meds sight unseen. We have to SEE the doctor and that can’t be done outside of contract hours.

It’s harder but not impossible. That’s an advantage non-Kaiser plans, more locations. I’ve taken 7:30 appointments and 4:30 several times before. That being said I absolutely think you should take sick time for the appointments if it’s easier for you!

I’m really confused over why this is such a big deal. Prescriptions are usually good for a while until they expire. The change in insurance wouldn’t be until the new year. Why couldn’t you get your prescriptions renewed with your old doctor first? Yes it’s annoying to get a new doctor but most people have to do that regularly anyways. Changing insurance is no big deal.


did you listen to the public comments at the Board meeting? One retired teacher called TEN doctor's offices and no one would accept her or her husband (who needs heart surgery).

maybe educate yourself before you diminish this. It IS a big deal.

I’d be curious to know if Kaiser could move the schedule to do it before the end of the year (aren’t most heart surgeries urgent by design?) and/or if he’d qualify for the additional 6 months continuation of care
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I sympathize with you, APS teachers on Kaiser. It is not easy to find new doctors right now, but they’re out there. Good news is that this is likely a one time switch- most practices around here participate in many of the big plans.

As hard as this is, you not winning any supporters with this. Stop trying to get the parents to do your bidding for you. It’s unprofessional. The Board has a fiduciary duty to the taxpayers to ensure that the benefits that are being provided to you are being obtained at a reasonable cost commensurate with market rates. Insurance plans cost a whole lot more than the small fraction you individually pay.

Additionally - All of us in corporate land have been through insurer changes, along with massive YoY increases in premiums or deductibles, and limits on service. You are being offered what appears to be a great plan at a competitive cost. Stop threatening to quit or call out for days on end unless you’d like to come experience employer coverage out here in the wild.



Or maybe, just maybe we CARE about the kids we teach and feel bad that we will have to take days off because we know it sucks, but it is also the only way we are given. It isn’t a threat, just the reality of what we are facing.

This has nothing to do with insurance plans changing. I know some people are asking for more days off to "look for more doctors" That's nonsense. Most of this can be done online at any time of day. Even if not, our contract hours allow for phone calls.


No, my kid needs to be brought to a doctor so her multiple therapies can be approved. I need to take medicine for a chronic condition. I suppose after being in Kaiser for 20 years, I could be out of it, but I doubt a doctor will just approve and write a prescription without ever seeing me. I can pick a doctor out online, in fact I already have on the BCBS website. That doesn’t mean I can get him to prescribe meds sight unseen. We have to SEE the doctor and that can’t be done outside of contract hours.

It’s harder but not impossible. That’s an advantage non-Kaiser plans, more locations. I’ve taken 7:30 appointments and 4:30 several times before. That being said I absolutely think you should take sick time for the appointments if it’s easier for you!

I’m really confused over why this is such a big deal. Prescriptions are usually good for a while until they expire. The change in insurance wouldn’t be until the new year. Why couldn’t you get your prescriptions renewed with your old doctor first? Yes it’s annoying to get a new doctor but most people have to do that regularly anyways. Changing insurance is no big deal.


did you listen to the public comments at the Board meeting? One retired teacher called TEN doctor's offices and no one would accept her or her husband (who needs heart surgery).

maybe educate yourself before you diminish this. It IS a big deal.

I’d be curious to know if Kaiser could move the schedule to do it before the end of the year (aren’t most heart surgeries urgent by design?) and/or if he’d qualify for the additional 6 months continuation of care


Hopefully someone from APS is addressing it.
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I sympathize with you, APS teachers on Kaiser. It is not easy to find new doctors right now, but they’re out there. Good news is that this is likely a one time switch- most practices around here participate in many of the big plans.

As hard as this is, you not winning any supporters with this. Stop trying to get the parents to do your bidding for you. It’s unprofessional. The Board has a fiduciary duty to the taxpayers to ensure that the benefits that are being provided to you are being obtained at a reasonable cost commensurate with market rates. Insurance plans cost a whole lot more than the small fraction you individually pay.

Additionally - All of us in corporate land have been through insurer changes, along with massive YoY increases in premiums or deductibles, and limits on service. You are being offered what appears to be a great plan at a competitive cost. Stop threatening to quit or call out for days on end unless you’d like to come experience employer coverage out here in the wild.



Or maybe, just maybe we CARE about the kids we teach and feel bad that we will have to take days off because we know it sucks, but it is also the only way we are given. It isn’t a threat, just the reality of what we are facing.

This has nothing to do with insurance plans changing. I know some people are asking for more days off to "look for more doctors" That's nonsense. Most of this can be done online at any time of day. Even if not, our contract hours allow for phone calls.


No, my kid needs to be brought to a doctor so her multiple therapies can be approved. I need to take medicine for a chronic condition. I suppose after being in Kaiser for 20 years, I could be out of it, but I doubt a doctor will just approve and write a prescription without ever seeing me. I can pick a doctor out online, in fact I already have on the BCBS website. That doesn’t mean I can get him to prescribe meds sight unseen. We have to SEE the doctor and that can’t be done outside of contract hours.

It’s harder but not impossible. That’s an advantage non-Kaiser plans, more locations. I’ve taken 7:30 appointments and 4:30 several times before. That being said I absolutely think you should take sick time for the appointments if it’s easier for you!

I’m really confused over why this is such a big deal. Prescriptions are usually good for a while until they expire. The change in insurance wouldn’t be until the new year. Why couldn’t you get your prescriptions renewed with your old doctor first? Yes it’s annoying to get a new doctor but most people have to do that regularly anyways. Changing insurance is no big deal.


did you listen to the public comments at the Board meeting? One retired teacher called TEN doctor's offices and no one would accept her or her husband (who needs heart surgery).

maybe educate yourself before you diminish this. It IS a big deal.

So I’ve had to change insurance 4 times in the past decade, because my employer changed plans (no choice on my part). One of those times I was having a cancer scare and had to find a new provider because my old surgeon didn’t take my new insurance. People will fit you in if it us serious/life threatening. It might be a few weeks wait, but they’ll fit you in if it’s serious. I don’t know that person’s situation, and I am sympathetic about how it may be a bad time to feel like you are losing coverage, but this really seems like it’s getting blown out of proportion.
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I sympathize with you, APS teachers on Kaiser. It is not easy to find new doctors right now, but they’re out there. Good news is that this is likely a one time switch- most practices around here participate in many of the big plans.

As hard as this is, you not winning any supporters with this. Stop trying to get the parents to do your bidding for you. It’s unprofessional. The Board has a fiduciary duty to the taxpayers to ensure that the benefits that are being provided to you are being obtained at a reasonable cost commensurate with market rates. Insurance plans cost a whole lot more than the small fraction you individually pay.

Additionally - All of us in corporate land have been through insurer changes, along with massive YoY increases in premiums or deductibles, and limits on service. You are being offered what appears to be a great plan at a competitive cost. Stop threatening to quit or call out for days on end unless you’d like to come experience employer coverage out here in the wild.



Or maybe, just maybe we CARE about the kids we teach and feel bad that we will have to take days off because we know it sucks, but it is also the only way we are given. It isn’t a threat, just the reality of what we are facing.

This has nothing to do with insurance plans changing. I know some people are asking for more days off to "look for more doctors" That's nonsense. Most of this can be done online at any time of day. Even if not, our contract hours allow for phone calls.


No, my kid needs to be brought to a doctor so her multiple therapies can be approved. I need to take medicine for a chronic condition. I suppose after being in Kaiser for 20 years, I could be out of it, but I doubt a doctor will just approve and write a prescription without ever seeing me. I can pick a doctor out online, in fact I already have on the BCBS website. That doesn’t mean I can get him to prescribe meds sight unseen. We have to SEE the doctor and that can’t be done outside of contract hours.

It’s harder but not impossible. That’s an advantage non-Kaiser plans, more locations. I’ve taken 7:30 appointments and 4:30 several times before. That being said I absolutely think you should take sick time for the appointments if it’s easier for you!

I’m really confused over why this is such a big deal. Prescriptions are usually good for a while until they expire. The change in insurance wouldn’t be until the new year. Why couldn’t you get your prescriptions renewed with your old doctor first? Yes it’s annoying to get a new doctor but most people have to do that regularly anyways. Changing insurance is no big deal.


did you listen to the public comments at the Board meeting? One retired teacher called TEN doctor's offices and no one would accept her or her husband (who needs heart surgery).

maybe educate yourself before you diminish this. It IS a big deal.


You can search on the VHC (system) website for doctors accepting new patients. And book an appointment online. This is not that complicated.
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I sympathize with you, APS teachers on Kaiser. It is not easy to find new doctors right now, but they’re out there. Good news is that this is likely a one time switch- most practices around here participate in many of the big plans.

As hard as this is, you not winning any supporters with this. Stop trying to get the parents to do your bidding for you. It’s unprofessional. The Board has a fiduciary duty to the taxpayers to ensure that the benefits that are being provided to you are being obtained at a reasonable cost commensurate with market rates. Insurance plans cost a whole lot more than the small fraction you individually pay.

Additionally - All of us in corporate land have been through insurer changes, along with massive YoY increases in premiums or deductibles, and limits on service. You are being offered what appears to be a great plan at a competitive cost. Stop threatening to quit or call out for days on end unless you’d like to come experience employer coverage out here in the wild.



Or maybe, just maybe we CARE about the kids we teach and feel bad that we will have to take days off because we know it sucks, but it is also the only way we are given. It isn’t a threat, just the reality of what we are facing.

This has nothing to do with insurance plans changing. I know some people are asking for more days off to "look for more doctors" That's nonsense. Most of this can be done online at any time of day. Even if not, our contract hours allow for phone calls.


No, my kid needs to be brought to a doctor so her multiple therapies can be approved. I need to take medicine for a chronic condition. I suppose after being in Kaiser for 20 years, I could be out of it, but I doubt a doctor will just approve and write a prescription without ever seeing me. I can pick a doctor out online, in fact I already have on the BCBS website. That doesn’t mean I can get him to prescribe meds sight unseen. We have to SEE the doctor and that can’t be done outside of contract hours.

It’s harder but not impossible. That’s an advantage non-Kaiser plans, more locations. I’ve taken 7:30 appointments and 4:30 several times before. That being said I absolutely think you should take sick time for the appointments if it’s easier for you!

I’m really confused over why this is such a big deal. Prescriptions are usually good for a while until they expire. The change in insurance wouldn’t be until the new year. Why couldn’t you get your prescriptions renewed with your old doctor first? Yes it’s annoying to get a new doctor but most people have to do that regularly anyways. Changing insurance is no big deal.


did you listen to the public comments at the Board meeting? One retired teacher called TEN doctor's offices and no one would accept her or her husband (who needs heart surgery).

maybe educate yourself before you diminish this. It IS a big deal.

I’d be curious to know if Kaiser could move the schedule to do it before the end of the year (aren’t most heart surgeries urgent by design?) and/or if he’d qualify for the additional 6 months continuation of care


Hopefully someone from APS is addressing it.

That’s not their job. As APS employees/retirees we need to do a little work too.
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I sympathize with you, APS teachers on Kaiser. It is not easy to find new doctors right now, but they’re out there. Good news is that this is likely a one time switch- most practices around here participate in many of the big plans.

As hard as this is, you not winning any supporters with this. Stop trying to get the parents to do your bidding for you. It’s unprofessional. The Board has a fiduciary duty to the taxpayers to ensure that the benefits that are being provided to you are being obtained at a reasonable cost commensurate with market rates. Insurance plans cost a whole lot more than the small fraction you individually pay.

Additionally - All of us in corporate land have been through insurer changes, along with massive YoY increases in premiums or deductibles, and limits on service. You are being offered what appears to be a great plan at a competitive cost. Stop threatening to quit or call out for days on end unless you’d like to come experience employer coverage out here in the wild.



Or maybe, just maybe we CARE about the kids we teach and feel bad that we will have to take days off because we know it sucks, but it is also the only way we are given. It isn’t a threat, just the reality of what we are facing.

This has nothing to do with insurance plans changing. I know some people are asking for more days off to "look for more doctors" That's nonsense. Most of this can be done online at any time of day. Even if not, our contract hours allow for phone calls.


No, my kid needs to be brought to a doctor so her multiple therapies can be approved. I need to take medicine for a chronic condition. I suppose after being in Kaiser for 20 years, I could be out of it, but I doubt a doctor will just approve and write a prescription without ever seeing me. I can pick a doctor out online, in fact I already have on the BCBS website. That doesn’t mean I can get him to prescribe meds sight unseen. We have to SEE the doctor and that can’t be done outside of contract hours.

It’s harder but not impossible. That’s an advantage non-Kaiser plans, more locations. I’ve taken 7:30 appointments and 4:30 several times before. That being said I absolutely think you should take sick time for the appointments if it’s easier for you!

I’m really confused over why this is such a big deal. Prescriptions are usually good for a while until they expire. The change in insurance wouldn’t be until the new year. Why couldn’t you get your prescriptions renewed with your old doctor first? Yes it’s annoying to get a new doctor but most people have to do that regularly anyways. Changing insurance is no big deal.


did you listen to the public comments at the Board meeting? One retired teacher called TEN doctor's offices and no one would accept her or her husband (who needs heart surgery).

maybe educate yourself before you diminish this. It IS a big deal.


You can search on the VHC (system) website for doctors accepting new patients. And book an appointment online. This is not that complicated.


Are you on Medicare? Are you a senior citizen? Maybe it's complicated for them.

She also said health care costs will increase so much that she and her husband may have to move out of the area, but she can't manage that on such little notice.

But I'm sure you'll just say this poor old lady is overly dramatic.
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I sympathize with you, APS teachers on Kaiser. It is not easy to find new doctors right now, but they’re out there. Good news is that this is likely a one time switch- most practices around here participate in many of the big plans.

As hard as this is, you not winning any supporters with this. Stop trying to get the parents to do your bidding for you. It’s unprofessional. The Board has a fiduciary duty to the taxpayers to ensure that the benefits that are being provided to you are being obtained at a reasonable cost commensurate with market rates. Insurance plans cost a whole lot more than the small fraction you individually pay.

Additionally - All of us in corporate land have been through insurer changes, along with massive YoY increases in premiums or deductibles, and limits on service. You are being offered what appears to be a great plan at a competitive cost. Stop threatening to quit or call out for days on end unless you’d like to come experience employer coverage out here in the wild.



Or maybe, just maybe we CARE about the kids we teach and feel bad that we will have to take days off because we know it sucks, but it is also the only way we are given. It isn’t a threat, just the reality of what we are facing.

This has nothing to do with insurance plans changing. I know some people are asking for more days off to "look for more doctors" That's nonsense. Most of this can be done online at any time of day. Even if not, our contract hours allow for phone calls.


No, my kid needs to be brought to a doctor so her multiple therapies can be approved. I need to take medicine for a chronic condition. I suppose after being in Kaiser for 20 years, I could be out of it, but I doubt a doctor will just approve and write a prescription without ever seeing me. I can pick a doctor out online, in fact I already have on the BCBS website. That doesn’t mean I can get him to prescribe meds sight unseen. We have to SEE the doctor and that can’t be done outside of contract hours.

It’s harder but not impossible. That’s an advantage non-Kaiser plans, more locations. I’ve taken 7:30 appointments and 4:30 several times before. That being said I absolutely think you should take sick time for the appointments if it’s easier for you!

I’m really confused over why this is such a big deal. Prescriptions are usually good for a while until they expire. The change in insurance wouldn’t be until the new year. Why couldn’t you get your prescriptions renewed with your old doctor first? Yes it’s annoying to get a new doctor but most people have to do that regularly anyways. Changing insurance is no big deal.


did you listen to the public comments at the Board meeting? One retired teacher called TEN doctor's offices and no one would accept her or her husband (who needs heart surgery).

maybe educate yourself before you diminish this. It IS a big deal.

I’d be curious to know if Kaiser could move the schedule to do it before the end of the year (aren’t most heart surgeries urgent by design?) and/or if he’d qualify for the additional 6 months continuation of care


Hopefully someone from APS is addressing it.

That’s not their job. As APS employees/retirees we need to do a little work too.


APS retirees are supposed to notify themselves when APS changes health plans? They just intuit it?
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I sympathize with you, APS teachers on Kaiser. It is not easy to find new doctors right now, but they’re out there. Good news is that this is likely a one time switch- most practices around here participate in many of the big plans.

As hard as this is, you not winning any supporters with this. Stop trying to get the parents to do your bidding for you. It’s unprofessional. The Board has a fiduciary duty to the taxpayers to ensure that the benefits that are being provided to you are being obtained at a reasonable cost commensurate with market rates. Insurance plans cost a whole lot more than the small fraction you individually pay.

Additionally - All of us in corporate land have been through insurer changes, along with massive YoY increases in premiums or deductibles, and limits on service. You are being offered what appears to be a great plan at a competitive cost. Stop threatening to quit or call out for days on end unless you’d like to come experience employer coverage out here in the wild.



Or maybe, just maybe we CARE about the kids we teach and feel bad that we will have to take days off because we know it sucks, but it is also the only way we are given. It isn’t a threat, just the reality of what we are facing.

This has nothing to do with insurance plans changing. I know some people are asking for more days off to "look for more doctors" That's nonsense. Most of this can be done online at any time of day. Even if not, our contract hours allow for phone calls.


No, my kid needs to be brought to a doctor so her multiple therapies can be approved. I need to take medicine for a chronic condition. I suppose after being in Kaiser for 20 years, I could be out of it, but I doubt a doctor will just approve and write a prescription without ever seeing me. I can pick a doctor out online, in fact I already have on the BCBS website. That doesn’t mean I can get him to prescribe meds sight unseen. We have to SEE the doctor and that can’t be done outside of contract hours.

It’s harder but not impossible. That’s an advantage non-Kaiser plans, more locations. I’ve taken 7:30 appointments and 4:30 several times before. That being said I absolutely think you should take sick time for the appointments if it’s easier for you!

I’m really confused over why this is such a big deal. Prescriptions are usually good for a while until they expire. The change in insurance wouldn’t be until the new year. Why couldn’t you get your prescriptions renewed with your old doctor first? Yes it’s annoying to get a new doctor but most people have to do that regularly anyways. Changing insurance is no big deal.


did you listen to the public comments at the Board meeting? One retired teacher called TEN doctor's offices and no one would accept her or her husband (who needs heart surgery).

maybe educate yourself before you diminish this. It IS a big deal.

So I’ve had to change insurance 4 times in the past decade, because my employer changed plans (no choice on my part). One of those times I was having a cancer scare and had to find a new provider because my old surgeon didn’t take my new insurance. People will fit you in if it us serious/life threatening. It might be a few weeks wait, but they’ll fit you in if it’s serious. I don’t know that person’s situation, and I am sympathetic about how it may be a bad time to feel like you are losing coverage, but this really seems like it’s getting blown out of proportion.


Are you on Medicare? It doesn't sound like dr's offices are so keen to fit in retirees when they already have their allotment of Medicare patients. The lack of empathy here is stunning.
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I sympathize with you, APS teachers on Kaiser. It is not easy to find new doctors right now, but they’re out there. Good news is that this is likely a one time switch- most practices around here participate in many of the big plans.

As hard as this is, you not winning any supporters with this. Stop trying to get the parents to do your bidding for you. It’s unprofessional. The Board has a fiduciary duty to the taxpayers to ensure that the benefits that are being provided to you are being obtained at a reasonable cost commensurate with market rates. Insurance plans cost a whole lot more than the small fraction you individually pay.

Additionally - All of us in corporate land have been through insurer changes, along with massive YoY increases in premiums or deductibles, and limits on service. You are being offered what appears to be a great plan at a competitive cost. Stop threatening to quit or call out for days on end unless you’d like to come experience employer coverage out here in the wild.



Or maybe, just maybe we CARE about the kids we teach and feel bad that we will have to take days off because we know it sucks, but it is also the only way we are given. It isn’t a threat, just the reality of what we are facing.

This has nothing to do with insurance plans changing. I know some people are asking for more days off to "look for more doctors" That's nonsense. Most of this can be done online at any time of day. Even if not, our contract hours allow for phone calls.


No, my kid needs to be brought to a doctor so her multiple therapies can be approved. I need to take medicine for a chronic condition. I suppose after being in Kaiser for 20 years, I could be out of it, but I doubt a doctor will just approve and write a prescription without ever seeing me. I can pick a doctor out online, in fact I already have on the BCBS website. That doesn’t mean I can get him to prescribe meds sight unseen. We have to SEE the doctor and that can’t be done outside of contract hours.

It’s harder but not impossible. That’s an advantage non-Kaiser plans, more locations. I’ve taken 7:30 appointments and 4:30 several times before. That being said I absolutely think you should take sick time for the appointments if it’s easier for you!

I’m really confused over why this is such a big deal. Prescriptions are usually good for a while until they expire. The change in insurance wouldn’t be until the new year. Why couldn’t you get your prescriptions renewed with your old doctor first? Yes it’s annoying to get a new doctor but most people have to do that regularly anyways. Changing insurance is no big deal.


did you listen to the public comments at the Board meeting? One retired teacher called TEN doctor's offices and no one would accept her or her husband (who needs heart surgery).

maybe educate yourself before you diminish this. It IS a big deal.


No way this is true.


Well that's what she said. Go listen yourself. She sounded very believable to me. No one but you is calling this nice old former teacher a liar.
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