BULLETIN 2005-19
TO ALL BENEFIT CONTACTS
Via Fax

Aetna’s procedures for reviewing and certifying handicapped dependents are different than the procedures in place for all other health plans. Aetna requires the completion of two plan specific forms, the “Request for Continuation of Medical Coverage for Handicapped Child” and the “Handicapped Child Attending Physician Statement.” Employees should follow the directions on the forms and submit them directly to Aetna. Handicap certification forms for Aetna members do not need to be sent to Benefits Administration Services (BAS). Aetna will notify the employee and BAS of all coverage extension approvals and denials. Agencies may enter the permanent handicap flag on the dependents record upon receipt of Aetna’s evidence of approval when provided by either the employee or BAS.

It is important to note that Aetna will not permit temporary coverage while the forms are being reviewed, so employees should submit the request to Aetna prior to a dependent’s 19 th birthday or other qualifying event.

BAS will notify agencies of all extended coverage denials so that dependent coverage may be terminated on the BENE screen and COBRA coverage offered. Employees will be informed of these procedures in an upcoming edition of the Pathways newsletter.

The Aetna dependent certification forms may be found in the forms section on the BAS website at http://das.ohio.gov/hrd//beneforms.html

If you have any questions, please contact Benefits Customer Service at (614) 466-8857 or send an E-mail to benefits@das.state.oh.us