[December 15, 1999 ]

We have been receiving calls from employees and annuitants who have recently received a Certificate of Creditable Coverage from their medical carrier.

Medical carriers send these certificates to all members who leave their plan. Carriers are required to do so by the Federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996—HIPAA. The certificates are intended to provide subsequent medical carriers with proof of prior coverage.

If you changed or transferred medical coverage during Open Enrollment and you receive this certificate, you may wish to file it in case you need it in the future. If you terminated your UC-sponsored medical coverage because of a change in your employment status (e.g., if you were laid off or found another job), be sure to keep the certificate. You may need to provide your future medical carrier with a copy.

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