Minimum Essential Coverage
Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) plans are designed to give you meaningful access to care, especially for preventive and everyday health needs, at a lower cost than traditional medical coverage.
MEC Plan Options
BAYADA offers four MEC plans through Fringe Benefit Group utilizing the Nationwide network so you can choose the coverage that works best for you:
- MEC
- MEC Enhanced
- MEC Copay
- MEC Copay Plus
Ready to explore your options? Click here to view the plan comparison chart.
IMPORTANT NOTE
The MEC Enhanced plans will not be eligible for NH, NM, and VT, and MEC Copay Plus plans will not be eligible for NM, and VT due to state regulations around fixed indemnity components.
How MEC Plans Are Different
MEC plans are structured differently than traditional medical coverage:
- They work best for preventive care, virtual care, and basic medical needs
- They do not cover all medical services
- They are not designed for ongoing or complex medical conditions
Remember to Stay In-Network
With an MEC plan, you must visit in-network providers for services to be covered. All four MEC plans use the First Health Network, giving you access to a large network of quality doctors and facilities. Out-of-network services are not covered.
Why Choose an MEC Plan?
An MEC plan may be a good option if you’re looking for lower-cost coverage and typically use your medical plan for your annual preventive care or the occasional doctor’s visit. It can help cover preventive and everyday health needs at a lower premium — keeping more money in your paycheck. These affordable plans make accessing basic health care services easy and convenient so you can take control of your health.
What Is Covered Under an MEC Plan?
Preventive Care — 100% Covered
MEC plans cover 100% of eligible preventive services when you use in-network providers. These services include annual physicals, screenings, immunizations, and certain women’s and children’s health services. Preventive care helps you stay healthy and catch potential issues early — at no cost to you.
Fixed Benefits for Medical Services
MEC plans include limited, fixed benefits for specific medical services, such as:
- Office visits
- Diagnostic tests
- Hospital admissions and inpatient services (benefits vary by plan option)
These benefits are paid as set dollar amounts, rather than covering a percentage of the total cost.
Prescription Drug Coverage
The MEC plan includes access to prescription drugs through participating pharmacies, with low copays for generic and formulary brand medications.
Virtual Primary Care through Teladoc
Life gets busy, and finding time to take care of your health isn’t always easy. Virtual primary care through Teladoc offers a quick and simple way to connect with a doctor from the comfort of home, helping you get the care you need without adding a trip to the doctor’s office.
With virtual primary care, you can establish an ongoing relationship with a Primary Care Physician (PCP) who can help you address your health concerns and stay healthy. Your PCP can provide personalized care focused on your health and well-being.
Your mental health matters, too. Teladoc also offers access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists and therapists, so you can get support when you need it — all virtually.
Get Started
Registration is required before you can use Teladoc services. Here’s how to get started:
- Visit teladoc.com
- Register and complete your profile.
- Choose the service you need and connect with a Teladoc provider virtually.
MEC Plan Resources
Register Online
Your health care information is just a click away. Register for an online account with The American Worker to access helpful tools and resources, including tips for healthy living, lab results, provider information, your Explanation of Benefits, and more. You’ll need your carrier-assigned ID number to register. Visit www.theamericanworker.fbg.com to get started.
Download the Mobile App
You can also manage your health care on the go with the Fringe Benefit Group Health mobile app. The app provides convenient access to your health care information at your fingertips and is available through the Apple App Store and Google Play. You’ll need your carrier-assigned ID number to register and use the app.
Find a Provider
Finding an in-network provider is easy. Visit FirstHealthLBP.com to search for doctors and facilities in the First Health Network or to confirm your provider is in-network.
Questions?
Have questions about your benefits or need help choosing the coverage that’s right for you? Our Benefits Educators are here to help you understand your options and make an informed decision. Call 877-291-3000, Option 2, for personalized support.
MEC Plan Contacts
Minimum Essential Coverage
800-226-5116
Call (Monday-Friday, 8am – 8pm ET)
FirstHealthLBP.com
Find a Provider