The entertainment industry can be rewarding for actors and performers who love what they do. However, being an artist can be a challenging career. Freelance work can be unreliable, and often without the benefits that traditional nine-to-five jobs offer. SAG-AFTRA is a union of more than 160,000 actors, announcers, performers, and broadcast journalists. The union was created to give strength to its members and negotiate for benefits that otherwise might not be available to freelancers. Health, pension and retirement benefits are among the most significant benefits that SAG-AFTRA provides to its members, and in this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the health benefit programs offered to members.
SAG-AFTRA Health Plan is a comprehensive medical plan that offers members and their eligible dependents access to quality healthcare coverage at an affordable price. The plan’s benefits include preventative care, doctor’s visits, prescription drug coverage, and mental health services. The SAG-AFTRA Health Plan also includes an option to enroll in dental, vision, and hearing benefits to ensure overall health and wellness.
One particular advantage of the SAG-AFTRA Health Plan is the nationwide network of contracted medical providers, making it easier for members to locate a provider or a health facility in their area. The Plan also has an online provider directory to help locate providers that accept the Plan.
The Plan also offers members the option to opt for a Health Savings Account (HSA) that allows you to save for eligible medical expenses using pre-tax dollars. The HSA can help to minimize the financial burden of healthcare.
Furthermore, members under the SAG-Aftra Health Plan can access mental health services through the provider network, and it’s available to anyone needing it. Members can access therapy in a private and confidential environment.
SAG-AFTRA also offers members the COBRA-Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1986 from the health plan. This law applies to most companies with employer-sponsored group health insurance plans. Under COBRA, members can keep their health insurance after leaving the union due to the termination of their employment, death, or divorce. The health insurance lasts as long as 18 months under COBRA; however, the member bears the full cost of the premiums. Members need to contact the SAG-AFTRA Health Plan’s member services department for details about their eligibility for COBRA coverage.
When it comes to health and wellness, SAG-AFTRA knows that members have different needs. That’s why in addition to the SAG-AFTRA Health Plan, the Union has a number of resources available to members. SAG-AFTRA’s Actors’ Fund is a national human services organization that provides various assistance programs to members in need, including healthcare, financial advice, career counseling, and more.
Overall, the SAG-AFTRA Health Plan provides members with a comprehensive range of coverage options, making healthcare affordable and accessible to freelancers. Members can access quality healthcare coverage through the union’s negotiated rates with providers and take advantage of the nationwide network of contracted medical providers. Health Benefits Management Services (HBMS) manages all of SAG-AFTRA Health Plan’s benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug benefits.
In conclusion, the SAG-AFTRA Health Plan is an important benefit that members receive through their union membership. The plan provides access to quality healthcare coverage and ensures that members can maintain their health and wellness. As a member, taking advantage of the benefits available, such as the HSA and mental health services, can make all the difference in maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. Join today, and have access to all the great benefits that SAG-AFTRA offers.
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