Pay attention when you enroll for 2019 benefits. "Beginning in 2019, the PPO with Incentive Account plan will cover your care only if you go to an in-network doctor. If you go to an out-of-network medical provider, the plan will not pay for your care and you will be responsible for 100% of the costs." (Benefits Guide, p. 18) This puts us at the mercy of even in-network providers who refer us to out-of-network specialists, including ones we may not realize are out-of-network (e.g., anesthesiologists, radiologists, or medical transport services). This could result in exorbitant out-of pocket charges, andis a significant reduction in benefits over last year. (See https://www.npr.org/tags/585812282/medical-bills)
The deductible remains $850, but you will only be getting a $100 incentive payment if you get an annual wellness-check (which is fully covered, so you should no matter what), rather than the $350 we've gotten in previous years if we meet the health screening goals. This is a significant reduction in benefits over last year. (Benefits Guide, p. 23)
This after big corporations like Kroger, got a major tax break from the Republican House of Representatives, virtually none of which has trickled down to rank and file workers. I received neither a raise, nor even a one-time bonus, following the tax break. I got zero from the new education benefit, because I am already overeducated for what I do at Kroger.
I think it can fairly be said that Kroger doesn't care at all about its rank and file workers.
Fred Bear
-- Edited by Fred Bear on Monday 29th of October 2018 05:14:26 PM