The proposed rules also address technical issues including financial matters and integration of Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage with the PSHB. Image: Jillian Cain Photography/Shutterstock.com
By: FEDweek StaffOPM has proposed a further set of rules for the upcoming Postal Service Health Benefits Program, addressing in more detail issues such as the program’s coordination with Medicare.
The proposal in the May 24 Federal Register follows finalization of general rules in April for the PSHB, which is to take over for the FEHB starting in January for USPS employees and retirees. The PSHB is to generally mirror the FEHB although with fewer carriers and with a general requirement that those not already retired from the USPS by the end of this year must enroll in Medicare Part B when they become eligible (typically on turning 65).
“This proposed rule expands on previous regulations concerning the PSHB program and is intended to provide greater detail and clarity necessary to properly implement PSHB in 2025 and beyond,” the notice says.
One area of direct interest to enrollees is a detailed explanation of how the program will deal with appeals of denials of requests for enrollment, which in the PSHB program will be further complicated by the Medicare enrollment requirement for those retiring in 2025 and afterward. Also addressed are various special circumstances and exceptions related to that requirement.
The proposed rules also address technical issues including financial matters and integration of Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage with the PSHB.
OPM recently finalized rules for the PSHB, in the process saying it cannot grant exceptions as requested by some of those who commented on the rules after they first were proposed last spring.
Many of the comments and questions OPM received focused on the forced transition of postal employees and retirees into the new program and the Medicare enrollment requirement. “A theme of the concerns is that many Postal annuitants plan their retirement based on the benefits packages available at the time of their employment and the PSHB Program changes those plans involuntarily,” the notice said.
OPM responded that creation of the new program and the Medicare requirement were ordered by law and that it has no discretion to change either.
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