EUTF Health Insurance: Coverage, Benefits and More

As a resident of Hawaii, you may qualify for health insurance coverage through the Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund (EUTF). EUTF offers a range of health insurance options to eligible Hawaii public employees, retirees and their dependents. In this article, we will explore the benefits of EUTF health insurance, eligibility criteria, available plans and coverage options.

What is EUTF Health Insurance?

EUTF is a state agency that offers health insurance coverage as well as dental, vision and life insurance plans to eligible Hawaii public employees, retirees of the EUTF, and their dependents. The agency was established to provide affordable and comprehensive healthcare services to state employees and their families.

EUTF health insurance plans are designed to meet the different needs and budgets of employees and retirees. EUTF partners with different health insurance carriers to offer a range of plans, including HMOs, PPOs, and high deductible health plans (HDHPs). By partnering with different carriers, EUTF ensures that employees and retirees have access to a wide network of providers and hospitals throughout Hawaii.

Who is Eligible for EUTF Health Insurance?

Eligibility for EUTF health insurance varies depending on your status as a public employee or retiree. Generally, active public employees who work at least 20 hours per week are eligible for EUTF health insurance. This includes employees of the State of Hawaii, the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, the University of Hawaii, and the Judiciary. Employees of the counties of Hawaii, Kauai, Maui and Honolulu are also eligible for EUTF health insurance.

Retirees who have met the eligibility criteria for retirement and have elected to receive retirement benefits from the EUTF are also eligible for EUTF health insurance coverage. Dependents of eligible public employees and retirees are also eligible for coverage under EUTF health insurance.

Types of EUTF Health Insurance Plans

EUTF offers a range of health insurance plans to meet the needs and budgets of eligible public employees and retirees. The following are the different types of EUTF health insurance plans:

Coverage Options Under EUTF Health Insurance Plans

EUTF health insurance plans offer a range of coverage options to eligible public employees and retirees. Coverage options include medical care, prescription drug coverage, mental health services, vision and dental care, and more. The following are some of the common coverage options available under EUTF health insurance plans:

Medical Care Coverage

Medical care coverage under EUTF health insurance plans includes preventative care, diagnostic tests, hospital care, and emergency care. Members can choose their primary care physician and see a specialist without a referral. EUTF health insurance plans also cover telehealth services, allowing members to receive medical care through video consultation with a healthcare provider.

Prescription Drug Coverage

EUTF health insurance plans cover a range of prescription drugs, including generic and brand name drugs. Members can fill their prescriptions at participating pharmacies or through mail order services. EUTF also offers a prescription drug discount program, allowing members to save on prescription drug costs.

Mental Health Services

EUTF health insurance plans cover mental health services, including inpatient and outpatient mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and counseling services. Members can choose from a network of mental health care providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed social workers.

Vision and Dental Care

EUTF health insurance plans offer coverage for routine vision and dental care, including exams, cleanings, and fillings. Members can choose from a network of preferred providers for vision and dental care services.

FAQs About EUTF Health Insurance

1. How do I enroll in EUTF Health Insurance?

Eligible public employees and retirees can enroll in EUTF health insurance during the annual open enrollment period, which usually takes place in October. Employees who experience a qualifying event, such as a change in family status, can enroll in EUTF health insurance outside of the open enrollment period.

2. How much does EUTF Health Insurance Cost?

The cost of EUTF health insurance varies depending on the type of plan you choose, your age, and whether you are covering dependents. The monthly premiums for EUTF health insurance plans range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars, depending on the plan.

3. What is the difference between an HMO and a PPO?

HMOs offer comprehensive healthcare services within a network of providers for a fixed fee. Members can only see providers within the network, except in an emergency situation. PPOs offer access to a network of preferred providers at a reduced cost. Members can choose to see providers outside the network, but may pay higher out-of-pocket costs.

4. What is a High Deductible Health Plan?

A High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) is a type of health insurance plan that offers lower monthly premiums but higher deductibles. Members pay out-of-pocket costs for medical expenses until reaching the deductible, after which the plan covers the remaining costs.

5. Can I see a specialist without a referral under EUTF Health Insurance?

Yes, you can see a specialist without a referral under EUTF Health Insurance. Members can choose their primary care physician and see a specialist without having to get a referral.

Conclusion

EUTF health insurance offers a range of coverage options to eligible public employees and retirees in Hawaii. Whether you are looking for a comprehensive healthcare plan or a plan with lower monthly premiums, EUTF has a range of options to meet your needs and budget. By partnering with different health insurance carriers, EUTF ensures that members have access to a wide network of providers and hospitals throughout Hawaii. If you are eligible for EUTF health insurance, be sure to explore the available plans and coverage options to find the best plan for you and your family.