GIC Approves Increases to Some Co-Pays; Slight Decreases for Others
February 15, 2008
Decisions made by the 13-member Group Insurance Commission on changes to co-pays were a mixed bag Friday, with approvals for increases to some co-pays and slight decreases to others. Co-pays on prescription drugs—both retail and mail order—remained unchanged.
Co-pays for outpatient surgery and inpatient hospital admissions increased by amounts ranging from $25 to $100; some co-pays remained unchanged. Co-pays for some primary care and specialist office visits increased by up to $10, although co-pays for some plans actually decreased by $5.
All changes to co-pays will go into effect July 1, 2008.
Commissioner Stephen Chandler and NAGE attorney Richard Waring, who is vice chair of the Commission, voted in opposition to the changes.
The Commission will meet March 5 to set premiums. (The Commission does not set the employer/employee split, such as 85/15 or 80/20; the split is determined by the legislature.)