Retiree Concerns for HealthPartners & United Healthcare Contract Agreement
On July 19, 2024, HealthPartners mailed a letter to retirees of Ramsey County who use United Healthcare (UHC) insurance coverage stating that UHC Medicare Advantage plans would no longer be accepted in 2025. We realize this news has led to uncertainty and confusion for those enrolled in one of the county’s UHC Medicare Advantage Plans. Please know that Ramsey County values the trust and loyalty of our current and former employees and is committed to ensuring that continuing healthcare needs are met with the highest level of care and attention.
Here are some things we want you to know:
Retirees continue to have network access to HealthPartners facilities and physicians through Dec. 31, 2024.
On Oct. 8, 2024, the Ramsey County Board approved an amendment to the contract with UHC for a Senior Supplemental with Prescription Drug plan option for 2025 as an additional choice to the two Medicare Advantage Plans currently offered. The Senior Supplemental Plan will provide access to HealthPartners clinics and hospitals as the current disagreement between UHC and HealthPartners is limited to Medicare Advantage Plans. Also, retirees who decide to leave the county insurance program for 2025 can return during 2025 or for 2026 as a one-time exception to past administrative practice.
Open enrollment
Open Enrollment for 2025 retiree benefits will be Oct. 21 through Nov. 11, 2024. Open Enrollment packets will be mailed to retirees the week of Oct. 14. Packet materials will detail the Senior Supplemental with Prescription Drug plan and cost differences for retirees.
Open enrollment support
- Informational virtual Zoom meeting will take place Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2024 from 1:30-3 p.m. The meeting link will be provided in the Open Enrollment Packet.
- In person drop-in sessions. Ask individual questions of Ramsey County staff and drop off forms. Maplewood Community Center, 2100 White Bear Ave N. Maplewood, 55109
- Friday, Oct. 18, 2024 from 9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 3 p.m.
- Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024 from 9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 3 p.m.
Frequently asked questions
When did the county switch to UHC MA?
The county switched to UHC MA on January 1, 2024, after an Request For Proposal process in 2023.
Of the 2,480 members, how many have used a HP Provider in 2024?
As of July 31, Ramsey County UHC MA plan insures 2,480 members, including former Ramsey County employees (1,849) and their spouses. As of July 9, roughly 45% of insured members have visited a HealthPartners provider in 2024.
Will the county issue a Request for Proposal in 2025 for 2026 retiree benefits?
Ramsey County anticipates issuing a Request for Proposal in early 2025 for Regular Retiree Insurance plans in response to any ongoing uncertainty and to explore the best options available for county retirees in the retiree health and prescription drug insurance coverage market.