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2025 Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan - Standard and Basic Option
PSHB Facts
Page 9
 
PSHB Facts
 
Coverage information

  • No pre-existing condition limitation
We will not refuse to cover the treatment of a condition you had before you enrolled in this Plan solely because you had the condition before you enrolled.

  • Minimum essential coverage (MEC)
Coverage under this Plan qualifies as minimum essential coverage. Please visit the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website at www.irs.gov/uac/Questions-and-Answers-on-the-Individual-Shared-Responsibility-Provision for more information on the individual requirement for MEC.
 
  • Minimum value standard
Our health coverage meets the minimum value standard of 60% established by the ACA. This means that we provide benefits to cover at least 60% of the total allowed costs of essential health benefits. The 60% standard is an actuarial value; your specific out-of-pocket costs are determined as explained in this brochure.
 
  • Where you can get information about enrolling in the PSHB Program
See https://health-benefits.opm.gov/PSHB/ for enrollment information as well as:
 
  • Information on the PSHB Program and plans available to you
     
  • A health plan comparison tool

Note: Contact the USPS for information on how to enroll in a PSHB program Plan through the PSHB System.

Also, your employing or retirement office can answer your questions, give you other plans' brochures and other materials you need to make an informed decision about your PSHB coverage. These materials tell you:

 
  • When you may change your enrollment
     
  • How you can cover your family members
     
  • What happens when you transfer to another Federal agency, go on leave without pay, enter military service, or retire
     
  • What happens when your enrollment ends
     
  • When the next Open Season for enrollment begins

We do not determine who is eligible for coverage. You will be responsible for making changes to your enrollment status through the PSHB system. In some cases, your employing or retirement office may need to submit documentation. For information on your premium deductions, you must also contact your employing or retirement office.

Once enrolled in your PSHB Program Plan, you should contact your carrier directly for updates and questions about your benefit coverage. 

 
  • Enrollment types available for you and your family

Self Only coverage is only for the enrollee. Self Plus One coverage is for the enrollee and one eligible family member. Self and Family coverage is for the enrollee and one or more eligible family members. Family members include your spouse and your dependent children under age 26, including any foster children authorized for coverage by your employing agency or retirement office. Under certain circumstances, you may also continue coverage for a disabled child 26 years of age or older who is incapable of self-support.
 
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