You are more than likely being contacted by many different insurance companies and agents around the Warren / Youngstown area to attend meetings or to enroll in a certain secondary health care plan by January 1, 2010. Please be aware that many agents are identifying themselves as representatives of the IUE-CWA and this simply is not true. The IUE – CWA has enlisted the services of McGohan Brabender Senior Solutions (MBSS) to assist you in making your health plan selection and managing your enrollment. MBSS has successfully worked with thousands of Ohio retirees that have gone through a similar transition over the past few years. We strongly recommend you work with MBSS as we are confident in their ability to provide objective expertise regarding your health plan choices. MBSS is committed to working closely with the IUE-CWA Benefit Representatives with any benefit issue that you may have not only during this open enrollment period, but throughout the years ahead as well. If you have not completed a Medical Checkup Form from MBSS, we encourage you to stop by the Local 717 union hall and do so ASAP so that you may be scheduled for a meeting. MBSS will be in our union hall throughout the next three months to help you pick a health plan to assure you have coverage effective January 1, 2010. Additionally, MBSS has an office in the Local 717 and will be available not just during the next few months but also throughout the year as questions come up or your needs change. Rest assured, we will take all means necessary to assure a smooth and safe transition for all our Medicare-eligible retirees, spouses and surviving spouses. Karen Krolopp, President |