General Archives - Premera Employers (WA)

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Update on Optum Employer Portal Changes

September 19, 2025

The updates to the Optum Employer Portal have been delayed but will likely resume in the next couple weeks.

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Putting People First with AI: Highlights from the Inland Northwest State of Reform

September 19, 2025

Premera is committed to implementing AI ethically and intentionally, with one clear goal: improving the experience for our members.

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Out-of-Network Savings Solutions

September 19, 2025

Out-of-Network Savings Solutions for OptiFlex and self-funded groups go into effect January 1, 2026.

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Your Responsibility: Medicare Part D Notification and Disclosure to CMS

September 19, 2025

Understand your responsibilities about disclosing prescription drug coverage and creditable coverage status information.

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Annual Gag Clause Prohibition Compliance Attestation

September 19, 2025

Important details on how Premera approaches the requirement ahead of the due date on December 31, 2025.

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Premera Health Plans and Vaccines

September 19, 2025

Premera follows guidelines and complies with state and federal mandates on preventive care, including vaccines.

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Premera Blue Cross, Seattle Storm Team Up to Honor All-Star Washington Educators

September 19, 2025

On September 1, Premera Blue Cross teamed up with the WNBA's Seattle Storm to recognize five All-Star Washington educators at the Storm's Back-to-School Night. 

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Premera Health Hub Expands Digital Health and Enhances Member Experience

August 21, 2025

New digital health network available January 1, 2026, for self-funded employers in Washington and Alaska.

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Blue365 is a Free Health and Wellness Discount Program Coming in October

August 21, 2025

Blue365 is a discount program coming to Premera members that offers discounts to gym memberships, hearing aids, and more.

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Changes Coming to Optum Financial Personal Funding Account (PFA) Employer Portal

August 21, 2025

The new employer portal is a state-of-the-art, robust, benefit account management tool.

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The Premera Blue Cross HMO Consumer Advisory Council Application is Open! Here’s What That Means.

August 21, 2025

The next consumer advisory council meeting is on Thursday, October 2, 2025, and anyone in your organization who has a PBC HMO plan is invited to apply to be part of the council and attend the meeting.

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Stay Informed: Updates to Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings

August 21, 2025

Preventive screenings for breast and cervical cancer will be expanded beginning January 1, 2026, to include more comprehensive care and patient navigation services.

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Member Communications and Outreach in June and July

August 21, 2025

Learn more about the outreach Premera has done for members this summer.

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Site of Service Expansion Means Groups and Members Save

August 21, 2025

Beginning January 1, 2026, Premera is expanding its site of service benefit to include ambulatory surgical centers for elective procedures. It also now includes freestanding birth centers for low-risk pregnancies.

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Sports physicals

August 21, 2025

Help your employees and their families get ready for fall sports with information about sports physicals by Kinwell Health.

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Right Care, Right Place, Right Time: A New Era for Prior Authorization

July 17, 2025

Prior authorization is just one of the ways we help lower out-of-pocket costs for our members and keep premiums more affordable for everyone.

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Changes Coming to Optum PFA Employer Portal

July 17, 2025

The updates will improve the user interface, include security updates, and reporting capabilities.

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Supporting Mental Health in Our Student Athletes

July 17, 2025

Learn how Premera is supporting the mental health of student athletes.

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Avoiding the ER

July 17, 2025

Knowing where to have a given health issue treated is important for your health and your pocketbook.

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What to Expect from Washington B&O Tax Increases

July 17, 2025

Business and occupation taxes are increasing. Here’s what you can expect.

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Heritage Prime Network to Sunset in 2027

July 17, 2025

The last date a group can renew on the Heritage Prime network is January 1, 2026.

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Digital Health Messages Program Expands to Self-Funded Groups

July 17, 2025

In 2026 Digital Health Messages will expand to include all self-funded groups, reinforcing our commitment to improve member health outcomes through innovative engagement tools.

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Primary Care Providers Play Crucial Role in Combating Youth Mental Health Crisis

June 19, 2025

New study examines trends in treatment and diagnoses of major depressive disorder in more than 1 million youth.

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From Criticism to Compassion: Kinwell’s Guide to Emotional Well-being

June 19, 2025

Self-compassion isn’t weakness—it’s a skill. And Kinwell is here to help you build it.

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Changes Coming to Premera Maternity Program

June 19, 2025

Enhanced Case Management maternal health program to replace the BestBeginnings app.

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May is Mental Health Awareness Month

May 15, 2025

We are making significant strides to enhance access to mental health care for everyone we serve.

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Dental Choice Network Significantly Expands with National Dental GRID

May 15, 2025

Effective January 1, 2026, Premera members will have access to one of the largest dental networks in the nation.

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Newly Created Premera Accounts to Default to Electronic EOB

May 15, 2025

Members who create a new online account will now automatically default to electronic Explanation of Benefits.

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Changes Coming to Premera Virtual Care Bundle

May 15, 2025

Effective January 1, 2026, some of the vendors for primary and urgent virtual care will change.

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Changes to the Secure Inbox on Member Portal

May 15, 2025

Last month Premera implemented a new vendor to support the secure member inbox feature in the member portal.

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Diet and Mental Health

May 15, 2025

Kinwell Health shares tips for eating while keeping emotional health and well-being in mind.

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Member Communications and Outreach in April and May

May 15, 2025

Learn more about Premera communications and outreach to connect members to their health plan services.

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In-Home Test Kits Launched on April 28, 2025

May 15, 2025

Eligible members received opt-in invitations for at-home test kits the first week of May.

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Premera Promotes Colorectal and Cervical Cancer Screening

May 15, 2025

Premera uses Digital Health Messages and videos to promote the importance of colorectal and cervical cancer screenings.

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Closing healthcare gaps for women

April 17, 2025

As much as Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate progress, it also offers the opportunity to reflect on the challenges that remain.

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Heritage Prime Network Sunsets in 2027

April 17, 2025

Groups utilizing the Heritage Prime network will need to shift to the Heritage PPO network no later than January 1, 2026, renewals.

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Chief Medical Officers of Premera and Kinwell Discuss Primary Care

April 17, 2025

Premera Blue Cross and Kinwell chief medical officers come together to discuss access to quality primary care.

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Premera Supports Campaign to Educate on Preeclampsia

April 17, 2025

Premera Blue Cross and March of Dimes launch initiative to educate members on preeclampsia.

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Premera Improves Member Website on Personal Funding Accounts

April 17, 2025

Premera integrated member feedback into updates on the personal funding account web page.

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Healthcare as a conversation at Kinwell

March 27, 2025

By creating a safe and non-judgmental environment, Kinwell clinicians encourage patients to discuss any health concerns and gain a better understanding of any underlying issues.

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Data tells a story: Understanding and addressing gaps in care

March 27, 2025

Everyone deserves access to culturally competent, high-quality care. By listening to these stories, we can work together to make meaningful improvements.

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Helping you engage employees in their benefits

March 27, 2025

B’link is a free resource built by Premera just for you—and available to all our employer groups regardless of size or funding type.

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February is Heart Month: Let’s Talk About the Heart-Mind Connection

February 20, 2025

If you would like to have your blood pressure checked, schedule an appointment at your nearest Kinwell clinic.

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Important Update: 1095-B Form Distribution Changes

February 20, 2025

Following revised IRS guidelines, we're sharing updates with you on how members of fully-insured groups will now access their 1095-B forms.

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Updates to Security Platforms Requires Member Action

February 20, 2025

Premera is upgrading the member sign-in experience to increase account security and enhance user experience.

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Premera and Kinwell Increase Access to Primary Care

January 16, 2025

Premera Blue Cross and Kinwell Medical Group have made great strides in increasing access to quality, affordable primary care.

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Race, Ethnicity, and Language Questionnaire Now Available on Premera Website and App

January 16, 2025

The race, ethnicity, and language (REL) questionnaire is now available for members on their Premera website and Premera mobile app.

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Premera In Our Communities

January 16, 2025

Premera's team was on hand at The 5th Avenue Theatre to help present a sensory-friendly performance of the show meant to welcome families with neurodivergent members.

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The Consumer Advisory Council Application is Open! Here’s What That Means

January 16, 2025

For Premera Blue Cross HMO groups: Our next consumer advisory council meeting is on April 22, 2025. Anyone in your organization who has a PBC HMO plan is invited to apply and attend.

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Premera Supports Provider Partners with Six New Availity Features

January 16, 2025

New features aim to reduce administrative tasks for providers.

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Looking back at 2024 and what we’ve accomplished

December 19, 2024

As this year comes to a close, we’d like to share some of the significant and exciting numbers of 2024.

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2025 reports available for Medicare Part D creditable coverage

December 19, 2024

Your responsibilities about disclosing prescription drug coverage and creditable coverage status information.

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Kinwell Health: A guide to holiday stress

December 19, 2024

The holiday season is often presented as a time of joy and connection, yet it can also bring a complex mix of emotions.

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Collecting member race, ethnicity, and language (REL) information

November 21, 2024

Starting in 2025, we will launch a new REL data collection initiative to improve healthcare equity. Learn how it impacts your employees.

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Mammograms are key for early detection of breast cancer

November 21, 2024

Family history isn’t all that your employees need to know to understand their breast cancer risk.

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Helping members reach their wellness goals through the holiday season and beyond

November 21, 2024

The team at Kinwell can help Premera members stick to their health and wellness goals this holiday season.

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Employer forms page improvements

November 21, 2024

The faster you can find what you need, the better you can manage your business.

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Premera sponsors The Fifth Avenue Theatre’s accessible performances as part of our health equity focus

November 21, 2024

As part of our commitment to health equity, we’re honored to support The Fifth Avenue Theatre as they work to expand accessibility –ensuring that the magic of the theater is an experience everyone in our community can enjoy.

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Ways Premera Blue Cross HMO is connecting with members

November 21, 2024

Premera Blue Cross HMO is connecting with members through Digital Health Messages, the consumer advisory committee, and more.

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Reminder: Open Enrollment Materials Are Available in B’link

October 17, 2024

We offer several resources in two convenient packages in the B’link employee communications center.

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Diabetes Management Plus for Fully Insured and OptiFlex in 2025

October 17, 2024

Effective January 1, 2025, fully insured and OptiFlex groups will have Diabetes Management Plus embedded as part of their plan.

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Help Protect Your Employees Against COVID-19 and the Flu

October 17, 2024

What you can do to help your employees stay healthy and out of the emergency room.

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A Healthy Change of Seasons

October 17, 2024

Help your employees prioritize their health as summer turns to fall.

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There is an easier way to screen for colorectal cancer

September 19, 2024

When most people think about screening for colorectal cancer, a colonoscopy probably comes to mind. Fortunately, there is an at-home alternative.

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Your Responsibility: Medicare Part D Notification and Disclosure to CMS

September 19, 2024

Federal law requires employer groups to notify employees and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) if their prescription drug coverage for Medicare beneficiaries is creditable.

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Breaking Down Barriers and Investing in Care

September 19, 2024

Premera releases documentary series that takes a closer look at organizations driving change in their communities.

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Annual Gag Clause Prohibition Compliance Attestation

September 19, 2024

Find out how Premera will support compliance with the requirement due December 31, 2024.

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Premera and Spokane’s New Pro Soccer Teams Celebrate Local Educators

August 15, 2024

Premera brings in a focus on mental health and teacher appreciation through its new USL Spokane sponsorship.

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Where your employees get surgery impacts their cost

August 15, 2024

Tips to help your employees lower their costs for planned surgeries.

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Premera celebrates the first pediatric medical residency program in eastern WA

August 15, 2024

Residency brings physicians-in-training to the Spokane community to focus on caring for young patients.

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Kinwell’s new coping skills group helps members with life challenges

August 15, 2024

Online group classes offer an opportunity for emotional resilience.

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$0 cost-share appointments at Kinwell

August 15, 2024

Kinwell Connect offers high-quality primary care access at $0 cost-share for all in-person and virtual care appointments at any Kinwell clinic in Washington state.

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Getting The Most Out of Your Summer

July 18, 2024

Written by Kinwell Health, "Take care this summer," get more information about Kinwell at https://kinwellhealth.com/

Healthy tips for a safe summer in the Pacific Northwest.

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What Is Health Equity and 7 Reasons Why it Matters for Your Business

July 18, 2024

Understand the role of health equity in the workplace.

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Looking For Employer Forms?

July 18, 2024

Whenever you need a form, we encourage you to visit our Employer Forms webpage first.

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Change Healthcare Notice of Breach

July 18, 2024

An update on the Change Healthcare cyberattack and what you need to know.

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Complete Your Group Size Attestation Form

July 18, 2024

If your group’s average payroll count changed from the prior year, it means you may need to complete the Group Size Attestation form.

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Take Advantage of the Early Bird Discount

July 18, 2024

Fully insured and OptiFlex large groups can receive a discount by completing their renewal early.

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B’link Employee Communications Center

July 18, 2024

B’link has easy-to-use resources that make understanding benefits simple for you and your employees.

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Simple, Non-invasive Testing Helps Members Stay on Top of Their Health and Wellness

July 18, 2024

Home test kits program for colon cancer screening, diabetic HbA1c testing, and diabetic kidney monitoring will be sent to eligible members in Washington and Alaska.

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New Issuer of Personal Funding Account Checks

July 18, 2024

Members with personal funding accounts with their Premera health plan will now receive checks from Optum Bank.

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Identifying Cancer Early Increases the Odds of Surviving It

June 20, 2024

This National Cancer Survivor Month, encourage your network to stay healthy and get screened.

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Mental Health: We’re All in This Together

June 20, 2024

Premera is partnering with student athletes from the University of Washington, Washington State University, and Gonzaga University to hear how they manage their mental health and end the stigma around mental health issues.

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Premera and MultiCare Reach Agreement

June 20, 2024

Premera Blue Cross is pleased to announce we have reached an agreement with MultiCare Health System.

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Preventive Service Updates Coming in July

June 20, 2024

Beginning July 1, 2024, as group plans renew, additional benefits may be covered as preventive care for Premera members.

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B’link Website Enhancements Are Live

June 20, 2024

New features are now available to help you find what you’re looking for.

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Premera Names Dr. Romilla Batra as Chief Medical Officer, Senior Vice President

June 20, 2024

Dr. Batra has accountability for the company’s clinical strategy, focused on making healthcare work better for Premera members and improving the provider experience.

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Update on MultiCare Health System Negotiations

May 16, 2024

Our negotiations with MultiCare continue, and we’re pushing to reach agreement before the contract end date of May 31, 2024.

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Livongo to be Rebranded to Teladoc

May 16, 2024

Livongo and Teladoc are merging, becoming one brand with one member experience.

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Helping You Prioritize Employee Mental Health

May 16, 2024

Livongo and Teladoc are merging, becoming one brand with one member experience.

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10 Questions About the Administration of Personal Funding Accounts

May 16, 2024

Here are the most common questions many of our employer groups ask relating to the administration of Personal Funding Accounts (PFAs).

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Contract negotiations with MultiCare Health Systems

April 18, 2024

Premera Blue Cross and MultiCare Health Systems are currently in contract negotiations. Right now, the contract between the two organizations ends on May 31, 2024.

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Negotiating the Future: Contracting Insights from Industry Leaders

April 18, 2024

A new ongoing series, “Navigating Healthcare Affordability,” takes a closer look at how Premera and others are prioritizing critical work around issues impacting the healthcare landscape.

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A Pipeline to Increase Pediatric Specialists in Eastern WA

This milestone wouldn't be possible without the incredible partnership between WSU, Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center & Children's Hospital, and Premera Blue Cross.

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Sensory-Friendly Public Skates at the Kraken Community Iceplex

April 18, 2024

Geared towards neurodiverse individuals, this public skate is sponsored by Premera and will feature limited attendance, softened lighting, and minimum noise levels.

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Tips to Prepare for Mental Health Awareness Month in May

April 18, 2024

Next month is Mental Health Awareness Month. This month, prepare to be a part of shifting the narrative surrounding mental health in the workplace by creating a #StigmaFree space for you and your colleagues.

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We Want Your Feedback

March 21, 2024

Later this month, you will receive an email from Premera Market Research. Please complete our survey to help us better understand your needs, your likes and dislikes, and the most important issues to you.

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New Video Helps Members Find a Doctor

March 21, 2024

View our new three-minute video on how to save your employees time and hassle when looking for the right provider.

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Navigating Healthcare Affordability: Working Together to Find Solutions

March 21, 2024

As part of our commitment to making healthcare more affordable and accessible, Premera is sharing insights from a recent Thought Leadership Forum hosted in partnership with the Puget Sound Business Journal.

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First Use Plan Emails for 2024 Launch This Month

March 21, 2024

These emails aim to improve member experience with their health plan and help them feel more confident when engaging with their plan.

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Premera and UW Medicine Collaborate on Mental Health Care for Black Communities

March 21, 2024

Three clinics in western Washington will receive funds from Premera Blue Cross to implement Collaborative Care, a specific model of integrated care developed at UW Medicine.

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Check Out the New Search Function on Employer News

March 21, 2024

Get the information you need quickly with our new search function.

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Change Healthcare cyberattack is contained

March 21, 2024

Premera has taken steps to secure our systems and monitor for indications of this cyberattack.

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February is American Heart Month

February 15, 2024

You can show your support by wearing red and sharing heart-healthy information with your employees.

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Healthcare Asks: How Do I Find Care Nationwide?

February 15, 2024

Are your employees curious about how to find care while traveling or living in another state, and what services are covered?

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Medical Director Speaks on Physical Wellness and Mental Health

February 15, 2024

Dr. Josephine Young’s commentary emphasized the importance of inclusive spaces and their connection to mental wellbeing.

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Premera Commitment to Mental Health Parity Proposed Rules

February 15, 2024

Premera is committed to ensuring its members continue to have access to behavioral health and substance use disorder treatments.

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Healthcare Asks: What is Prior Authorization?

February 15, 2024

Premera medical director, Dr. Josephine Young, explains more about the process, and why it’s needed.

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Welcome Employees to their 2024 Health Plan

January 18, 2024

Simplify your life and use content that’s already available in B’link.

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2024 Reports Available for Medicare Part D Creditable Coverage

January 18, 2024

Your responsibilities about disclosing prescription drug coverage and creditable coverage status information.

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Reminder: Digital ID Cards Are Available

January 18, 2024

Here’s how to access a digital or printable ID card.

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2024 Price Comparison Tool Goes Live

January 18, 2024

The Transparency in Coverage Rule (TCR) requires health plans make price comparison information available.

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2024 HSA Contribution Limits

January 18, 2024

For groups who offer a high-deductible health plan, you may want to share the new 2024 contribution limits with your employees who have a high-deductible health plan with a health savings account (HSA).

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Premera Employer News Gets a Refresh

December 21, 2023

The redesigned employer news page makes it easier to find the information you need.

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Honoring our 2023 Heroes in the Classroom

December 21, 2023

Every year, Premera partners with the Seattle Seahawks to celebrate the amazing, often unrecognized work of teachers.

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Home Test Kit Member Outreach

December 21, 2023

Home test kit program launches for eligible members.

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Planning for Tax Season: Form 1095-B

December 21, 2023

What you need to know and how to tell your employees about Form 1095-B requirements with B’link ready-to-share employee communications.

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Stay Healthy this Season

November 16, 2023

One of the best ways to protect your health is to stay up to date with your vaccinations—whether you’re protecting yourself from the flu, COVID-19, or RSV.

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Network Update, Eastern Washington

November 16, 2023

We will keep you informed as negotiations continue so you are aware of our progress.

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Navigating Healthcare Costs in Washington and How Premera is Supporting our Employers

Update on Optum Employer Portal Changes

Putting People First with AI: Highlights from the Inland Northwest State of Reform

Out-of-Network Savings Solutions

Your Responsibility: Medicare Part D Notification and Disclosure to CMS

Annual Gag Clause Prohibition Compliance Attestation

Premera Health Plans and Vaccines

Premera Blue Cross, Seattle Storm Team Up to Honor All-Star Washington Educators

Premera Health Hub Expands Digital Health and Enhances Member Experience

Blue365 is a Free Health and Wellness Discount Program Coming in October

Changes Coming to Optum Financial Personal Funding Account (PFA) Employer Portal

The Premera Blue Cross HMO Consumer Advisory Council Application is Open! Here’s What That Means.

Stay Informed: Updates to Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings

Member Communications and Outreach in June and July

Site of Service Expansion Means Groups and Members Save

Sports physicals

Right Care, Right Place, Right Time: A New Era for Prior Authorization

Changes Coming to Optum PFA Employer Portal

Supporting Mental Health in Our Student Athletes

Avoiding the ER

What to Expect from Washington B&amp;O Tax Increases

Heritage Prime Network to Sunset in 2027

Digital Health Messages Program Expands to Self-Funded Groups

Primary Care Providers Play Crucial Role in Combating Youth Mental Health Crisis

From Criticism to Compassion: Kinwell’s Guide to Emotional Well-being

Changes Coming to Premera Maternity Program

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Dental Choice Network Significantly Expands with National Dental GRID

Newly Created Premera Accounts to Default to Electronic EOB

Changes Coming to Premera Virtual Care Bundle

Changes to the Secure Inbox on Member Portal

Diet and Mental Health

Member Communications and Outreach in April and May

In-Home Test Kits Launched on April 28, 2025

Premera Promotes Colorectal and Cervical Cancer Screening

Closing healthcare gaps for women

Heritage Prime Network Sunsets in 2027

Chief Medical Officers of Premera and Kinwell Discuss Primary Care

Premera Supports Campaign to Educate on Preeclampsia

Premera Improves Member Website on Personal Funding Accounts

Healthcare as a conversation at Kinwell

Data tells a story: Understanding and addressing gaps in care

Helping you engage employees in their benefits

February is Heart Month: Let’s Talk About the Heart-Mind Connection

Important Update: 1095-B Form Distribution Changes

Updates to Security Platforms Requires Member Action

Premera and Kinwell Increase Access to Primary Care

Race, Ethnicity, and Language Questionnaire Now Available on Premera Website and App

Premera In Our Communities

The Consumer Advisory Council Application is Open! Here’s What That Means

Premera Supports Provider Partners with Six New Availity Features

Looking back at 2024 and what we’ve accomplished

2025 reports available for Medicare Part D creditable coverage

Kinwell Health: A guide to holiday stress

Collecting member race, ethnicity, and language (REL) information

Mammograms are key for early detection of breast cancer

Helping members reach their wellness goals through the holiday season and beyond

Employer forms page improvements

Premera sponsors The Fifth Avenue Theatre’s accessible performances as part of our health equity focus

Ways Premera Blue Cross HMO is connecting with members

Reminder: Open Enrollment Materials Are Available in B’link

Diabetes Management Plus for Fully Insured and OptiFlex in 2025

Help Protect Your Employees Against COVID-19 and the Flu

A Healthy Change of Seasons

There is an easier way to screen for colorectal cancer

Your Responsibility: Medicare Part D Notification and Disclosure to CMS

Breaking Down Barriers and Investing in Care

Annual Gag Clause Prohibition Compliance Attestation

Premera and Spokane’s New Pro Soccer Teams Celebrate Local Educators

Where your employees get surgery impacts their cost

Premera celebrates the first pediatric medical residency program in eastern WA

Kinwell’s new coping skills group helps members with life challenges

$0 cost-share appointments at Kinwell

Getting The Most Out of Your Summer

What Is Health Equity and 7 Reasons Why it Matters for Your Business

Looking For Employer Forms?

Change Healthcare Notice of Breach

Complete Your Group Size Attestation Form

Take Advantage of the Early Bird Discount

What to Expect from Washington B&O Tax Increases