Medical Insurance Carriers

There are several health care plan options available. There is a Blue Cross - Traditional plan, that provides first-dollar coverage which covers eligible hospital and surgical expenses in full. It also provides a major medical program, that covers doctor's visits and many other expenses at 80 percent after meeting a deductible. Three health maintenance organization (HMO) plans are available: Community Blue, Independent Health and Univera Health Care. Community Blue, Univera and Independent Health are independent type HMOs that let you see a participating doctor. The HMO plans provide extensive coverage for hospital services plus routine and major medical care. A detailed summary of these plans is available from the UBFA Payroll Department (716-645-3013).

UBFA shares the cost of health insurance coverage with the participants. The amount of cost sharing depends on the insurance plan chosen and the rates established by each carrier. Your share of medical insurance is paid with tax-free dollars.

Opt-out

If you receive health insurance through your spouse's employer and you have a full-time appointment at University at Buffalo, you may elect not to receive health coverage through UBFA and receive cash, which may be used toward other benefits or taken as after-tax income. You must be able to document that you receive coverage elsewhere to be eligible for this option.