New APWU Plan Could Set Precedent

Meanwhile, the American Postal Workers Union will offer a revised approach to coverage in the 2003 plan year, with a so-called “customer-driven” plan that will have a structure unique to the FEHB program. Under the APWU plan, enrollees will have $1,000 for self-only coverage or $2,000 for family coverage to pay copayments, deductibles and other out of pocket costs, as well as some additional procedures such as dental and vision care, without incurring a deductible. If they exceed that amount, they will have to pay the next $600 out of pocket. Afterward, coverage will be available on a standard fee-for-service basis, with the plan covering 85 percent. OPM officials called the program the type of innovative approach the program needs and indicated that other plans might follow suit in the future.