fadec

I just called BCBS (called the benefits number, xfer to health, say I'm a pilot, xfer). In the past I always got my billing questions answered there but the rep said that this year a company called Accolade will been handling all billing questions for PPO core. So I called Accolade, waited on hold for ten minutes, then scheduled a callback for later tonight using their automated phone system. It's not looking good so far, honestly. Has anyone else had billing questions answered by Accolade?

jetflyger

I have had to call them a couple of times. have gotten good help both times.

fadec

Good to hear. I never got my scheduled callback so I'll try again with fingers crossed.

BMEP100

I've not been impressed so far.

It appears our health care management that was outsourced to Hewitt, has been out-outsourced by Hewitt.

I called to get a blank Rx reimbursement claim form. The agent who did finally call me back insisted I set up an account with them in addition to Hewitt (username/ password). Nuts! Just needed a blank generic form.. The guy refused for "privacy protection reasons". Or I could download their app to my phone and register that way. Double nuts! Told him I'd call United HR to get one.

Got a call back from someone else later that day who said they would snail mail it.

I really don't need another bogus third party vendor relationship with separate passwords user names to deal with my company benefits... who may be gone next year(like to one we had last year).

Won't be long til scheduling will be outsourced to Bedunk a dunk personnel resources in Mumbai who will require their own log in, in addition to CCS, to get a trip drop/trade/117 rest adjustment.

757Driver

You do have the option of not using Accolade. I simply called up BCBS and told them no thank you, I’d like to use your reps instead.

Slats Extend

I did the same with Aetna....It took about 10 minutes with Accolade crying about it, but I got it done.

My point was that I was not authorizing a third party to communicate with Aetna on my behalf.

Please file a PDR if you drop Accolade, the Union is trying to fight this change.

flap

Union not trying to fight Accolade addition. I would say R&I skeptical but hopeful. Company believes that Accolade will bring value and save the plan and participants money.

That savings was baked into the costing and one of the reasons for current rates.

They are supposed to add value by recommending an MRI at a local imaging center as opposed to going to the hospital where it could cost twice as much, or other similar cost saving measures.

UAL always anxious to chase savings. Time will tell if Accolade will produce desired results.

Certainly not required to use them, but can be a valuable source as you can task them to do research regarding procedures and explain coverage and out of pocket expenses.