Direct Access Physical Therapy
There’s a new way to access physical therapy benefits in Missouri. In August 2023, a new law went into effect in Missouri which allows anyone to schedule an appointment with a licensed physical therapist without the need for a physician’s referral. Patients must still provide proof of insurance for claims to be paid by your health plan, but this new law gives individuals seeking improved health outcomes the freedom to take charge of your health and wellbeing by directly accessing the expert care and guidance of skilled physical therapists. Remember that seeing an in-network physical therapy provider will offer you…
Annuity Distributions Begin May 2022
…least age 55 with 100% vested benefit in the Annuity Plan.* *There may be additional tax liability for any benefits received before reaching age 59 1/2. In addition, participants who have experienced an immediate and heavy financial need may be eligible for an annuity hardship distribution if certain criteria are met. Criteria for hardship withdrawals include the following requirements: Have a need that is one of the following (select one): Medical: Expenses of at least $5,000 which the Participant is obligated to pay; or Burial or Funeral: Expenses of up to the lesser of $13,000 or 25% of the Participant’s…
Continuing Eligibility Rules: Quarterly Test Updated
This information is intended for Active participants & pre-Medicare retirees. As you know, in recent years benefits were reduced to help strengthen the health plan. Good news: The health plan is growing stronger! For this reason, in their March 2024 meeting, our health plan trustees determined that an improvement to our eligibility tests is possible. With hours worked beginning May 1, 2024, the QUARTERLY RULE ELIGIBILITY TEST is improved. What does this mean? Less hours will be required per quarter to continue eligibility. Details: QUARTERLY RULE TEST Effective with hours worked May 1 or after, a participant who works at…
That “TIGHT” Muscle May Actually be a “WEAK” Muscle
…exercise -it takes work! Exercise increases the size of fibers which provides more strength or endurance to stand longer, walk further, and lift more effectively so you no longer feel “tension” in muscles from these activities. Physical therapists specialize in guiding you gradually through strength + endurance exercises to make activities more comfortable without that pain or “tightness” in your muscles. Physical therapy services are included in your benefits under the health plan. Peak Sport & Spine is your go-to source for physical therapy at no additional cost to you, with no copays for services provided. Peak Sport & Spine…
Our Health Fairs are Back!
Our health fairs are returning to Kansas City and St. Louis in September. MAKE YOUR HEALTH A GAME CHANGER Open to our Active and Medicare Advantage populations, our sports-themed health fairs will offer all participants and families a fun and safe environment to better connect with your health, as well as recognize and understand your health benefits. Find out more on our website: Health Fair – Mid-America Carpenters Regional Benefit Services (laborfunds.org) Visit our pages to learn more and to register or RSVP…
Health Fair – St. Louis
…Health Plan’s Dental network partner for Active participants Pelago, Carpenters Health Plan’s partner for smoking cessation Midwest Coalition of Labor (MCL) Life, AD&D, Accident and Critical Illness – Voya/Kocher Insurance Group Short Term Disability – MetLife/Group Benefits Associates Financial Planning – Megent Financial Discounted Hearing Aids and Protection – Start Hearing MACRC Suicide Prevention campaign The Aviary Illinois Recovery Center Orthopedic Associates of St. Louis Greater Imaging St. Louis Oak Street Health – primary care focused on Medicare patients St. Louis Area Foodbank Costco Lupus Foundation of America Alliance Credit Union Together Credit Union *Advance scheduling required. Call Siteman at…
