benefit buzz

JULY EDITION

back-to-School Checklist

Summer is winding down, and before we know it, kids will be heading back to school. For some families, it's an exciting new milestone. For others, it's a race to finish all those last-minute back-to-school tasks. As you're checking items off your list, don't forget to schedule your family's annual physicals and required immunizations

June EDITION

Who is your Beneficiary?

Can't remember? No worries!
We understand that updating your beneficiary may not be at the top of your priority. However, we want to take this opportunity to remind you how important it is to review your beneficiary information--and how easy it is to make changes.

may EDITION

Medical Claim Forms

When we receive a claim from your medical provider, we only receive the diagnosis (for example, “foot pain”) with no explanation for the reason for the visit. Completing the Injury/Illness Claim Form gives us the additional information we need to properly process your claim.

April EDITION

Marathon Health: Physical Therapy

If you're dealing with chronic or acute pain in your neck, back, arms, or legs--you need to call Marathon Health. They're here to get you moving again with NO out-of-pocket costs!

march EDITION

What is self-pay coverage?

Self-pay coverage is available to eligible Active members who did not work enough hours in the previous qualifying quarter to be insured for the next coverage quarter.

February EDITION

Benefit Spotlight: Dental

Did you know it is recommended to visit the dentist every six months? Dental Health is an important part of your overall well-being. Your mouth can show early signs of some nutritional deficiencies and infections. It can also be linked to health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and bacterial pneumonia.

JANUARY EDITION

new Year, New Deductible

Like in years past, your deductible resets each January. The good news? There’s no need to adjust your budget in the new year. Our deductible amounts have remained the same since 2009, and the recent change to Aetna did not impact your deductible.

December EDITION

New Medical Network: Aetna

As most of you are aware, we will be changing medical networks effective January 1, 2026. Aetna will be our new medical network and managed care administrator. We wanted to take a moment to answer some of the questions we have received.

NOVEMBER edition

national Diabetes Month

The Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 22.8% of adults with diabetes are undiagnosed. Diabetes left untreated, the high blood sugar can affect various organs in your body, putting you are higher risk of heart disease or stroke.

October EDITION

Are you short on hours?

Many members may not realize that if they work outside their local's jurisdiction (i.e., St. Louis city or county), their hours are not reported to their Home Fund. For example, if you are a local 42 or 110 member working in St. Charles County, your hours are reported to the outstate Fund office in Kansas City.

SEPTEMBER edition

breast Cancer Awareness Month

As part of our Fall Wellness Event, we will be offering FREE mammogram screenings on October 18th at the Laborers’ Local 42 Union Hall. These are available to individuals covered under the Plan who meet the eligibility criteria.

AUGUST EDITION

Understanding Your Medical Bill

Understanding your Medical Bill starts with your Explanation of Benefit (EOB). When you get a bill from a provider, and you are not sure if the amount you owe is correct, the most efficient way to confirm this is to refer to the I-Site portal on our website.

JULY edition

looking for a Primary Care Physician?

If you don’t have a primary care physician, now is the perfect time to choose one. Marathon Health offers eight FREE health centers that can serve as your primary care provider. Best of all, there are no out-of-pocket costs.