COVID-19 Employee Benefits Guidance from RK Tongue

A message from Virginia Dental Services Corporation endorsed partner, RK Tongue:

Our goal through partnership with the Virginia Dental Services Corporation is to keep members informed during these uncertain times. Many of our Virginia clients offer employees the option to enroll onto a group medical plan. It is imperative that individuals maintain health insurance during these times – and we’re here to help! Please reach out to Melanie Modula on our team with any questions regarding the below information by emailing MModula@RKTongue.com. 

The status of your group medical plan requires an active conversation with your agent. If you do not have an agent or have not had this conversation yet, our team is available to help and answer questions regardless of your client status with R.K. Tongue.

Group Medical Insurance Flexibility

• Are customers able to continue employee health benefits if part of the workforce has reduced hours or is laid-off in response to the COVID-19 crisis? Yes, most carriers offering health insurance in Virginia have waived the requirement for employees to be actively at work in order to be eligible for coverage as long as the monthly premium payment is received. Coverage must be offered on a uniform, non-discriminatory basis to all employees. There must be at least one person actively employed on the plan to remain in force.

• Will my rates/premium be subject to change if my enrollment drops as the result of the COVID-19 crisis? With most carriers, rates and premiums will not change due to loss of enrollment. Renewals will still occur as they normally would throughout the year on plan anniversary dates.

AFLAC Voluntary Supplemental-Health Benefits

Individuals nationwide are understanding the importance of financial protection benefits now, more than ever. Your team at R.K. Tongue works with insurance carriers that can provide supplemental health benefits to your employees without affecting your bottom line. These benefits provide direct payment to employees in the event of hospitalization, accident, disability, etc.  Many medical plans include expenses such as deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums that many Americans cannot afford. We have the tools to help educate employees from afar and can support an enrollment event digitally, telephonically, and via video-conferencing.

We understand and share your concerns, fears, and business challenges.  We will provide updates to you circumstances dictate.  Please take all relevant precautions to stay safe and healthy.