FAQonMESSAABC.PDFVIP

FAQ on MESSA ABC Here are some common questions about MESSA ABC. If you don’t see your question here, call MESSA’s Member Service Center at 800.336.0013. Q: What are the advantages of MESSA ABC? A: MESSA ABC: • Features lower premiums in exchange for a higher deductible • Complies with federal law governing health savings accounts (HSAs); you and your employer can contribute pre-tax dollars to your HSA, which lowers your income taxes this year • Provides three different high-deductible options • Provides members with a HealthEquity HSA, with no setup or administration fees Q: Are there any disadvantages of MESSA ABC? A: High-deductible health plans like MESSA ABC save you a lot of money up-front. But, it can take time to learn how to manage them properly. It’s a good idea to set aside a couple of hours each month to manage your medical expenses with your HSA. And, you must budget accordingly. Q: Will I be able to choose my doctor and other providers? A: MESSA ABC uses the same large provider network as MESSA Choices/Choices II, giving you the greatest choice of doctors and access to expert medical care from the best hospitals, including the Mayo Clinic and the Cleveland Clinic. Q: Why is the deductible higher with MESSA ABC? A: HSA-qualified plans are governed by federal law and the IRS code, which specifies a minimum deductible level. MESSA ABC Plan 1 is set at the minimum deductible; the MESSA ABC Plan 1 deductible is subject to change each Jan. 1 in order to remain HSA-compatible according to IRS rules governing HSAs. Q: When does the deductible start? A: The deductible year is the calendar year, Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. Q: Does my ABC plan deductible apply to all medical expenses? A: Under federal law, most medical expenses, including the cost of prescription drugs, are subject to the deductible. That’s a key difference between HSA-qualified plans such as MESSA ABC and many heal