Announcements
Eat Your Way to Better Health: An Introduction to Virta
Managing your weight and blood sugar is often a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. In this kickoff webinar, we’re introducing the Virta Method—a science-backed approach to health that focuses on real food, not calorie counting.
Join us for a session with Jeff Stanley, MD, on Wednesday, June 17, at 2 pm ET to discover:
- The power of nutrition: How to transform your health by changing what you eat, not how much
- Weight loss without hunger: Why you don’t need to count calories or use willpower to see real results
- Foods you’ll actually enjoy: How to stay full and satisfied with delicious meals that keep your energy levels steady all day
- A doctor’s perspective: Clinical insights into how our program naturally lowers blood sugar and improves overall health
- Bring someone with you. Spouses and dependents are welcome. Simply share the registration link so they can join, too
COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Update
As of May 11, 2023, the COVID-19 public health emergency is ending. This will affect your health coverage in the following ways:
- Over-the-counter COVID-19 tests are no longer covered.
- COVID-19 tests provided by a medical provider due to illness will be covered with the applicable copay or coinsurance. Routine COVID-19 screenings will not be covered.
- In-network COVID-19 vaccines are covered at no cost through the preventive services benefit. COVID-19 vaccines provided by out-of-network providers will be subject to applicable copays or coinsurance.
Questions? Please contact the Fund Office.
College scholarships available
The Robert Burke Petronella Memorial Scholarship Fund awards three scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are either members or the children or grandchildren of members. These deserving students will be awarded $2,500 each of their four years of college.
Convenient, affordable doctor appointments with LiveHealth Online
When you’re sick, you may not want to get out of bed to see a doctor, or you may not be able to get a convenient appointment. If you’re enrolled in medical coverage, you have access to LiveHealth Online, a secure video-chat app that allows you to see a doctor using your computer, tablet, or smartphone—all for a low copay.
Hear clearly with two hearing aid benefit options
If you need hearing aids, the Fund has two great options to cover you.
The Fund covers up to $4,500 for your hearing exams, testing, and hearing aids once every three years through the University of Connecticut’s Speech and Hearing Clinic. Members enrolled in the medical plan can, instead, take advantage of coverage up to $700 once every three years through Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield.
An improved dental benefit
Effective July 1, 2022, the annual maximum increased to $2,000 for some Fund members. Schedule your next teeth cleaning!
Disability benefit changes
The Fund requires you to apply for disability benefits through the applicable state program before collecting benefits through the Fund. If you’re disabled and can’t work, apply through the following channels:
If you have questions about applying for disability benefits, please contact the Fund Office at 860-470-8551 or 888-705-1092 (toll-free).