FirstCare Health Plans has announced that it will be discontinuing its on- and off-exchange Marketplace plans for the upcoming 2024 plan year. This decision will directly affect clients currently enrolled in FirstCare Marketplace plans.
Affected clients will be automatically enrolled in a Baylor Scott & White Health Plan Marketplace plan that closely matches their existing benefits, pending approval from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This automatic enrollment will occur at the time of coverage renewal.
Clients are advised that their current FirstCare Marketplace plans will remain in effect until December 31, 2023. In July 2023, they will receive a letter from FirstCare Health Plans notifying them that their current plan will not be available for the 2024 coverage period. The letter will include details about the 2024 plans and provide instructions for any necessary actions to be taken. This information will be sent out in October 2023.
During the Open Enrollment period starting on November 1, 2023, clients have the choice to continue with the Baylor Scott & White Health Plan Marketplace plan that has been selected for them and adjust their premium accordingly. Alternatively, they may opt to enroll in a different plan through the Exchange at healthcare.gov, or directly through Baylor Scott & White Health Plan or another insurance provider. It is important to note that Open Enrollment ends on January 15, 2024, and enrollment must be finalized by December 15, 2023, to ensure coverage becomes effective on January 1, 2024.
Clients can expect a smooth transition with minimal to no disruption to their network coverage. The Baylor Scott & White Health Plan network encompasses 103 counties across North, Central, and West Texas. In-network services, including specialist visits, do not require referrals, and two virtual care options are available. Clients can utilize the search tool at BSWHealthPlan.com/FindProvider to confirm if their providers are within the network. They can navigate to the Individual & Family Networks tab and select BSW Premier HMO – Individual Marketplace.
FirstCare Health Plans regrets any inconvenience caused by this change and is committed to facilitating a seamless transition for affected clients while ensuring continued access to high-quality healthcare coverage. For further inquiries or concerns, clients are encouraged to reach out to FirstCare Health Plans for assistance.
