UNB INSURED BENEFIT PROGRAMS – PLAN AMENDMENTS

(effective JULY 1, 2012)

In an earlier memorandum, information pertaining to July 1^st rate changes for the UNB group benefits plans was communicated. While managing costs and ensuring long-term sustainability is a key responsibility of the UNB Fringe Benefits Review Committee (FBRC), which is made up of representatives from various employee groups as well as university administration, the Committee also seeks to ensure that our plans remain relevant to changing circumstances and best practises in the industry.

UNB Health Plan

The FBRC is pleased to advise that effective July 1, 2012, services from Certified Acupuncturists and Certified Athletic Therapists (when prescribed by a physician) have been approved for coverage under the UNB Health Plan. The annual treatment and financial limits will be combined with the current Physiotherapy benefit.

UNB Dental Plan

In recent years, dental implants have become a more common treatment option and the FBRC has received several requests to add such procedures as an eligible benefit under the UNB Dental Plan.  While implants are not commonly covered under group dental plans, the FBRC is pleased to advise that our plan will be amended to partially cover implants, up to the amount that would have been permitted if the member had chosen a lower cost alternative procedure that is an eligible expense under the UNB Dental Plan. For a more complete explanation, please contact the HR&OD department, preferably before you decide on a treatment plan.

The FBRC also approved for reimbursements to be made on the basis of rates in the 2012 New Brunswick Dental Fee Guide (which rose an average of 3.04% from the 2011 New Brunswick Dental Fee Guide). We remind all plan members that dentists are not required to follow the New Brunswick Dental Fee Guide so it is always important to be aware of your provider’s fee schedule.

Employee & Family Assistance Program

The UNB Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) carrier has switched from Medavie Blue Cross to Shepell-FGI, effective April 1, 2012.  The phone number for the Shepell-FGI Employee Assistance Program has changed to 1-800-387-4765 (the former number is still in operation and will be for the foreseeable future).  EFAP benefits remain unchanged.  New wallet cards and brochures are available at UNB Human Resources & Organizational Development.

Travel Assistance Program

As a result of a corporate acquisition in the insurance industry, UNB’s AXA Travel Assistance Program is now part of the SSQ Financial Group.  Despite the ownership change, please continue to use your AXA Assistance Program Membership card and the listed phone numbers therein.  The only exception is for expenses under the Out-of-Province Referral Program. For more information, please contact UNB Human Resources & Organizational Development at (506) 453-4648.