The state recently sent a brochure to your home touting a new feature available through the State of Connecticut health plan. The SmartShopper program helps you shop for cost-effective health care services while earning cash rewards. The Pulse wanted to learn more so we asked Human Resources Jessica VanAlstyne, director of employee benefits, and Christine Masotti, AVP of payer negotiations and network development, to answer a few questions about the program.
How does the program work?
This is a voluntary program that allows members (employees, retirees, and their enrolled dependents) to “shop” and earn cash rewards for utilizing low-cost providers for certain procedures.
Can all employees participate?
This program is available to all members enrolled in the State of Connecticut Employee Health Plan.
What is the benefit of being a member?
When you or your eligible dependents use this website or call center to shop for care in Connecticut for certain procedures included in the SmartShopper program, you can actually earn cash rewards as high as $500.
Why is the state offering this program?
This program was negotiated as part of the 2017 SEBAC Agreement in an effort to save money and improve health.
May I continue to use UConn Health for services/procedures?
Yes. Depending on the service, you and your dependents may not qualify for incentives by using UConn Health for certain procedures, however, it’s important to remember that it will not cost you or your dependents any more than it currently does to use our services.
What procedures are eligible for the rewards?
Inpatient
Back Surgery – Laminectomy $250 – $500
Bariatric Surgery – Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass $500 – $500
Hip Replacement $250 – $500
Hysterectomy $500 – $500
Knee Replacement $250 – $500
Spinal Fusion (Posterior) $500 – $500
Outpatient
Knee Arthroscopy with Cartilage Repair $75 – $250
Shoulder Arthroscopy $75 – $250
Shoulder Arthroscopy with Rotator Cuff Repair $75 – $250
Outpatient Diagnostic
Colonoscopy with Biopsy $75 – $250
Colonoscopy with Removal of Lesion(s) or polyp(s) $75 – $250
Screening Colonoscopy $75 – $250
Upper GI Endoscopy $75 – $250
Upper GI Endoscopy with Biopsy $75 – $250
How can I learn more?
Members can call a SmartShopper customer service expert at 1-800-824-9127 or e-mail at smartshoppersupport@vitals.com. Please include your name, phone number and a brief description of your question and you will be contacted as soon as possible.
A representative from Vitals SmartShopper will also be in attendance at the UConn Health Open Enrollment Fair on May 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the rear cafeteria.