Additional Information
Please see below for additional information on Medicare, MyTruAdvantage policies, and more. The information applies to; MyTruAdvantage Select (HMO), MyTruAdvantage Select Plus (HMO), MyTruAdvantage Choice Plus (PPO) and MyTruAdvantage Red, White and Tru (PPO), unless otherwise noted.
- Monthly Plan Premiums for People who get Extra Help from Medicare
- What is Extra Help and am I Eligible
- Special Requirements for Some Drugs
- Temporary Supply for Drugs not Covered
- Quality assurance policies and procedures
- Privacy Policy
- Advance Directives
- How to appoint a representative
- Filing a Claim for Reimbursement
- Prior Authorization
- Coverage determination/redetermination
- How to file a grievance
- How to file an appeal
- Medicare Star Ratings for Plans
- Public Health Emergency Policy
- Member Rights and Responsibilities
- Member Disenrollment Rights and Responsibilities
- Obtain Needed Care During a Disaster
Monthly Plan Premium for People who get Extra Help from Medicare
to Help Pay for Their Prescription Drug Costs
to Help Pay for Their Prescription Drug Costs
If you get extra help from Medicare to help pay for your Medicare prescription drug plan costs, your monthly plan premium will be lower than what it would be if you did not get extra help from Medicare.
If you get extra help, your monthly plan premium will be $0 for any of the plan(s) below. (This does not include any Medicare Part B premium you may have to pay.)
- MyTruAdvantage Select (HMO)
- MyTruAdvantage Select Plus (HMO)
- MyTruAdvantage Choice Plus (PPO)
MyTruAdvantage Medicare Advantage plan premiums include coverage for both medical services and prescription drug coverage. All MyTruAdvantage plans have a combined medical and Part D premium of $0. Since the Part D premium for MyTruAdvantage plans is $0, members receiving Extra Help will not see additional cost savings to their overall premium.
If you aren’t getting extra help, you can see if you qualify by calling:
- 1-800-Medicare or TTY users call 1-877-486-2048 (24 hours a day/7 days a week),
- Your State Medicaid Office, or
- The Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. TTY users should call 1-800-325-0778 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.
If you have any questions, please call MyTruAdvantage Member Services at (844) 425-4280 (TTY: 711) . From October 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025, a Member Services representative will be available to speak to you from 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., local time, seven (7) days a week. On Thanksgiving and Christmas days, as well as weekends and holidays from April 1 through September 30, alternate technologies (for example, voicemail) will be used and a Member Services representative will return your call within one (1) business day.
What is Extra Help and am I Eligible
Medicare Extra Help
Medicare helps pay prescription drug costs for people who qualify.
What is Medicare Extra Help?
Medicare gives "extra help" to pay prescription drug costs for people with limited income and resources, like savings and stocks. If you qualify for Extra Help, you will get help paying for any Medicare drug plan's monthly premium, yearly deductible, and drug copays. This extra help will count toward your out-of-pocket costs.
How do I qualify for Extra Help?
Here are some ways you can qualify for Extra Help:
- If you receive full Medicaid benefits, you are automatically eligible for Extra Help—there is no need to apply separately. Medicare will mail you a letter with information about Extra Help when you qualify.
- If you receive any help from Medicaid paying your Medicare premiums or receive Supplemental Security Income, you will automatically get Extra Help and do not need to apply separately. However, you will need to enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan.
- If you have limited income and resources and don’t get help from Medicaid, you can apply for Extra Help and enroll in a Medicare drug plan1. Call 1 (800) MEDICARE (1 (800) 633-4227), 24/7 (TTY 1 (877) 486-2048).
How do I prove I’m eligible for Extra Help?
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) started the Best Available Evidence (BAE) policy to deal with Extra Help eligibility. BAE makes sure that people getting Extra Help aren’t charged too much or have higher copayments than you’re supposed to.
According to CMS, all plan sponsors, like MyTruAdvantage, must accept BAE sent by someone applying for Extra Help if they are eligible, even if Medicare records don’t show it. Once you’ve sent BAE to MyTruAdvantage, we will ask CMS to change your status in their system.
Some acceptable forms of Best Available Evidence are:
- A copy of your Medicaid card (if you have one)
- A copy of a state document that shows you have Medicaid
- A print-out from a state electronic enrollment file or from your state's Medicaid systems that shows you have Medicaid
- A print-out from a state electronic enrollment file or from your state's Medicaid systems that shows you have Medicaid
- A screenprint from the State's Medicaid systems showing Medicaid status
- Any other document from your state that shows you have Medicaid
- A document from your state that shows you have Medicaid and are getting home- and community-based services
- Social Security Administration (SSA) Award Letter
- An "Application Filed by Deemed Eligible" (SSA publication HI 03094.605) confirming that the beneficiary is "automatically eligible for extra help"
See a sample notice of the Application filed
Go to CMS.gov to learn more about BAE Policy
Medicare and Social Security Info:
- 1-800-MEDICARE (1 (800) 633-4227), 24/7 (TTY 1 (877) 486-2048)
- The Social Security Office at 1 (800) 772-1213, 7 am to 7 pm, Monday through Friday (TTY users should call 1 (800) 325-0778)
- Your local State Medicaid Office
Special Requirements for Some Drugs
In our effort to contain costs and deliver quality care to you, MyTruAdvantage and our service partners have organized our drug list into tiers and placed requirements on some expensive drugs to target their availability to where they are most valuable. Below are terms you may see in the formulary. Please see the formulary to understand which drugs fall within each category below.
Formulary
Our formulary lists drugs that we have approved coverage for in advance and helps you and your doctor find treatment options that will address your needs, while also explaining the cost and any rules or usage requirements that may apply to certain medications.
- PA: Prior Authorization Applies
- PA NSO: PA for New Starts Only
- PA BvD: Part D vs. Part B Only
- PA-HRM: PA for High-Risk Meds
- QL: Quantity Limit Applies
- ST: Step Therapy Applies
- ST NSO: ST for New Starts Only
- CB: Capped Benefit
- GM: Male Only
- GF: Female Only
- AGE (Max x Years): Prior Authorization Age Edit
- AGE (Min x Years): Prior Authorization Age Edit
- AGE Min x Years and Max y Years): Prior Authorization Age Edit
- EX: Excluded Drug
- FF: First Fill (Generic Use Incentive)
- LA: Limited Access Drug
- This prescription may be available only at certain pharmacies. For more information consult your Pharmacy Directory or call Pharmacy Member Services at (844) 283-2788, TTY users should call 711. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or visit www.MyTruAdvantage.com.
- GC: Gap Coverage
- NDS: Non-Extended Days’ Supply
- NM: Non-Mail Order Drug
- HI: Home Infusion Drugs
- ENH: Enhanced Benefit
Part B vs Part D coverage (B/D)
Your cost for some drugs will vary depending on the purpose for which they are prescribed, and where you are taking them (sometimes referred to as the "setting", for example, in the hospital vs. at home). Please see the evidence of coverage for more information.
Temporary Supply for Drugs not Covered
If your medication is not on our Formulary (Approved Drug List) or if your ability to get your prescription is limited, you may be able to fill a temporary supply (up to 30 days) of your drug at an in-network pharmacy.
What is a temporary supply or transition fill?
A temporary supply or a "transition fill" is generally a one-time refill of a current medication that gives you and your health care provider time to change to a different medication or to file a request to have it covered by MyTruAdvantage.
Eligibility
You are eligible for a temporary supply or transition fill of up to 30 days if you meet one of the following situations:
- If you're new to your Medicare plan and the drug you are currently taking is not on the MyTruAdvantage formulary or is restricted, you are eligible for a temporary supply. You have 90 days from the day your plan starts to receive a transition fill or temporary supply of a medication you’re currently taking
- If you're a current member of a MyTruAdvantage plan and the drug you have been taking is no longer on the plan's formulary or the drug you have been taking is now restricted in some way (See Section 5, Chapter 5 of your EOC for more information about restrictions), you are eligible for a temporary supply. You have 90 days from the day your drug’s status changes to get a transition fill or temporary supply.
- If you're a member of a MyTruAdvantage plan and live in a long-term care facility, you have 90 days from your admission date to the facility to get a transition fill or temporary supply
Call pharmacy member services at (844) 425-4280 (TTY: 711) for more details about receiving a temporary supply or transition fill of a medication.
Quality Assurance Policies and Procedures
MyTruAdvantage has implemented quality assurance policies, procedures and programs to help you get the best possible care now, to continuously improve the quality of care delivered by our plans, and to promptly address any issues our monitoring detects. Our goal is to ensure care is safe, accessible, reliable, patient-centered, timely, efficient and cost-effective.
Making sure you get quality care:
The MyTruAdvantage Quality Improvement Program is designed to objectively and systematically monitor and evaluate the quality and appropriateness of clinical and non-clinical care and services provided to MyTruAdvantage enrollees. By implementing a solid infrastructure, plan and provider performance are overseen throughout each year to ensure maximal quality experience and efforts toward our quality goals.
Our Standards
The Quality Improvement Program establishes a set of standards to which every plan entity and provider must strive to meet. These are developed from the regulations set by CMS as well as the values and initiatives of MyTruAdvantage. Our standards are based in:
- Strong organizational and Quality Improvement infrastructure with lines of authority
- Continuously striving for Quality Improvement through quality studies and improvement initiatives
- Provider participation in the Quality Improvement Program and relevant processes
- Appropriate access to care and services for enrollees
- Management of enrollee medications
- Privacy, protection, and maintenance of member rights and responsibilities
- Enrollee rights for grievance and appeals
- Provider participation in quality assurance monitoring including HEDIS measurement
- Assessment of enrollee satisfaction with care and service provided via information collected by CMS approved and endorsed surveys including CAHPS and HOS.
Institutional Structures
Organizational infrastructure is at the foundation of the Quality Program, with shared oversight from the Board of Directors and through the Executive Leadership team and the Quality Improvement Committee (QIC).
The QIC is supported by the following subcommittees who perform assigned routine quality management activities and report up to the QIC on a regular basis.
- Health Services Committee
- Medical Peer Review and Credentialing Committee
- Therapeutics Committee
- Grievance and Appeals Committee
Commitment to Continuous Improvement
All parties accountable to the Quality Improvement Program are constantly comparing metrics to ensure consistency and maximal experience to enrollees; while deviations are considered new opportunities for improvement. Through annual review and evaluation of ongoing special studies, improvement projects, and the qualify plan, MyTruAdvantage is regularly looking for ways to improve. This is a fundamental effort supported throughout the organization from all Quality Improvement Program participants to the Board of Directors.
Privacy Policy
Federal and state laws protect the privacy of your medical records and personal health information. We protect your personal health information as required by these laws.
- Your "personal health information" includes the personal information you gave us when you enrolled in this plan as well as your medical records and other medical and health information.
- The laws that protect your privacy give you rights related to getting information and controlling how your health information is used. We give you a written notice, called a "Notice of Privacy Practice," that tells about these rights and explains how we protect the privacy of your health information.
How do we protect the privacy of your health information?
- We make sure that unauthorized people don’t see or change your records.
- In most situations, if we give your health information to anyone who isn’t providing your care or paying for your care, we are required to get written permission from you first. Written permission can be given by you or by someone you have given legal power to make decisions for you.
- There are certain exceptions that do not require us to get your written permission first. These exceptions are allowed or required by law. For example, we are required to release health information to government agencies that are checking on quality of care. Because you are a member of our plan through Medicare, we are required to give Medicare your health information including information about your Part D prescription drugs. If Medicare releases your information for research or other uses, this will be done according to Federal statutes and regulations.
You can see the information in your records and know how it has been shared with others
You have the right to look at your medical records held at the plan, and to get a copy of your records. We are allowed to charge you a fee for making copies. You also have the right to ask us to make additions or corrections to your medical records. If you ask us to do this, we will work with your healthcare provider to decide whether the changes should be made. You have the right to know how your health information has been shared with others for any purposes that are not routine. If you have questions or concerns about the privacy of your personal health information, please call Member Services (phone numbers are printed on the back cover of this booklet).
See also: Notice of Privacy Practices
Advance Directives
The term “advance directive” refers to your spoken and written instructions about your future medical care and treatment. By stating your health care choices in an advance directive, you can help your family and health care providers understand your wishes about your medical care if you are unable to make those decisions for yourself due to an accident or illness.
There are different types of advance directives. From a living will, to power of attorney, to choosing a health care representative and more, advance directives can be used in different situations to make sure your health care wishes are known. Indiana law pays special attention to advance directives and has specific laws in place regarding them.
Advance directives are not required and no one may discriminate against you if you do not sign one. While physicians and hospitals often encourage patients to complete advance directive documents to gain information about your health care choices, they cannot require you to have an advance directive.
Information about how to choose a health care representative is provided below. You can also visit the Indiana State Department of Health advance directive resource center for additional information on advance directives, including links to forms, contact information and more.
How to Appoint a Representative
You or your appointed representative (someone you name to act for you) may file a grievance. You can name a relative, friend, attorney, doctor, or someone else to act for you. You may have someone already authorized under state law to act on your behalf or an individual appointed with power of attorney, for example.
If you wish to appoint someone to represent you, download the Appointment of Representative form required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). This form is valid for one (1) year from the date of the last signature on the form, unless the form is revoked. For example, if the enrollee signs the form on January 1, 2025 and the representative signs on January 3, 2025 (or vice versa), the form is effective for one year starting on January 3, 2025. This form can also be used for appeals, coverage decisions, or grievances.
Filing a Claim for Reimbursement
Click here to download a Claims Form
Prior Authorization
MyTruAdvantage provides prior authorization services to ensure members receive services that are medically and clinically necessary, and that the services are appropriate for your condition or diagnosis.
There are two parts to the prior authorization process:
Notice of approval or denial is also sent to the MyTruAdvantage members for any authorization request received. If the authorization is denied, members will receive a denial letter which includes their appeal rights. If you have any questions about your authorization, contact customer service.
Criteria utilized for Medical Necessity Reviews:
In addition to utilizing the Plan Document to confirm plan coverage, MyTruAdvantage utilizes Medicare National (NCD) and/or Local Coverage Determination (LCD) when completing a medical necessity review. Access to these NCD and LCD coverage criteria can be accessed by following the link below:
Questions:
The criteria provided are intended to be utilized by clinical professionals. In the event you have questions regarding the criteria, MyTruAdvantage encourages you to reach out directly to your Provider or the MyTruAdvantage clinical team at (844) 425-4280.
For any other questions about prior authorizations, please send us a message in your member account or call the customer service contact number listed above.
Coverage Determination / Redetermination
What is a coverage decision?
A coverage decision is a decision about your medical or prescription drug benefits and coverage. A coverage decision may be made prior to you receiving a service or after the service is received. Whenever you ask MyTruAdvantage to authorize, provide, or pay for medical or prescription drug services, including the type or level of services you believe you should receive, you are asking us for a pre-service coverage decision. Coverage decisions are also known as
- Organization Determinations (Part C or medical benefits) or
- Coverage Determinations (Part D or prescription drug benefits).
What is the difference between a prior authorization (PA) and a request for a coverage decision?
Both a PA and a coverage determination are about asking the plan if something will be covered. Some medical and prescription drug services might be specified in your Evidence of Coverage as requiring that you obtain a PA or they will be denied for payment. However, there may be some services or drugs that you are unsure are covered. These may not require a PA but because you are asking us if they will be covered, you are asking for a coverage determination.
Criteria utilized for Coverage Determination Reviews:
In addition to utilizing the Plan Document to confirm plan coverage, MyTruAdvantage utilizes Medicare National (NCD) and/or Local Coverage Determination (LCD) when completing a Coverage Determination review. Access to these NCD and LCD coverage criteria can be accessed by following the link below:
Who may ask for a coverage decision?
You or your appointed representative (someone you name to act for you) may request an appeal. You can name a relative, friend, attorney, doctor, or someone else to act for you. You may have someone already authorized under state law to act on your behalf or an individual appointed with power of attorney for example. If you don’t and wish to have someone represent you, click on this link to download the appointment of representative form required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). This form is for use for appeals, coverage decisions, or grievances and is valid for one (1) year from the date from the date it has your signature and the signature of your appointed, unless revoked. For example, if the enrollee signs the form on January 1, 2024 and the representative signs on January 3, 2024 (or vice versa), the form is effective for one year starting on January 3, 2024.
Can your doctor request a coverage decision?
For coverage or initial decisions about coverage, your physician or his/her staff may submit a request on your behalf. For appeals and grievances, your physician must be appointed your representative.
How do you request a coverage decision?
To request either a Part C or Medical organization or coverage determination you may do one of the following:
By phone: 1-844-425-4280 (TTY 711)
We are available as follows:
October 1 through March 31:
8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., local time, 7 days a week
April 1 through September 30:
8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., local time, Monday through Friday
On weekends and holidays, you will need to leave a message.
By writing:
MyTruAdvantage
P.O. Box 428
Columbus, IN 47202-0428
By fax: 1-812-378-7048
For Part D or Drug coverage requests, you or your physician may use the CMS Model Coverage Determination form or by contacting us using one of the methods below:
By Phone: 877-403-6035 (TTY users, please call 711)
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
By Writing:
MyTruAdvantage
MedImpact Healthcare Systems, Inc.
10181 Scripps Gateway Court
San Diego, CA 92131
By Fax:
858-790-6060
How long will it take for MyTruAdvantage to make a decision?
When we give you our decision, we will use the “standard” deadlines unless we have agreed to use the “fast” deadlines. A standard coverage decision means we will give you an answer within 14 calendar days after we receive your request for a medical item or service. If your request is for a Medicare Part B prescription drug, we will give you an answer within 72 hours after we receive your request. However, for a request for a medical item or service we can take up to 14 more calendar days if you ask for more time, or if we need information (such as medical records from out-of-network providers) that may benefit you. If we decide to take extra days to make the decision, we will tell you in writing. We can’t take extra time to make a decision if your request is for a Medicare Part B prescription drug. If your health requires it, ask us to give you a “fast coverage decision. A fast coverage decision means we will answer within 72 hours if your request is for a medical item or service. If your request is for a Medicare Part B prescription drug, we will answer within 24 hours.
How to File a Grievance
What is a grievance?
A grievance is any expression of dissatisfaction with any aspect of MyTruAdvantage operations or its activities or behavior of the plan or its delegated entity in the provision of health care items, services, or prescription drugs, regardless of whether remedial action is requested or can be taken. Grievances also include complaints about the quality of care you may receive.
What is a quality of care grievance?
A quality of care grievance is a complaint related to whether the quality of covered services provided by a plan or provider meets professionally recognized standards of health care, including whether appropriate health care services have been provided or have been provided in appropriate settings.
Who may file a grievance?
You or your appointed representative (someone you name to act for you) may file a grievance. You can name a relative, friend, attorney, doctor, or someone else to act for you. You may have someone already authorized under state law to act on your behalf or an individual appointed with power of attorney for example. If you don’t and wish to have someone represent you, click on this link to download the appointment of representative form required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). This form is for use for appeals, coverage decisions, or grievances and is valid for one (1) year from the date from the date it has your signature and the signature of your appointed, unless revoked. For example, if the enrollee signs the form on January 1, 2025 and the representative signs on January 3, 2025 (or vice versa), the form is effective for one year starting on January 3, 2025.
How long do you have to file a grievance?
You must file your grievance no later than 60 calendar days after the event or incident that precipitated or caused the grievance. If MyTruAdvantage needs more information and the delay is in your best interest or if you ask for more time, we can take up to 14 more calendar days (44 calendar days total) to respond to your grievance.
How can you file a grievance?
MyTruAdvantage accepts grievances for Medical, or Part C, and Prescription Drug, or Part D:
By phone: 1-844-425-4280 (TTY 711)
We are available as follows:
October 1 through March 31:
8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., local time, 7 days a week
April 1 through September 30:
8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., local time, Monday through Friday
On weekends and holidays, you will need to leave a message.
By writing:
You can use this grievance form
MyTruAdvantage
P.O. Box 428
Columbus, IN 47202-0428
By fax: 1-812-378-7048
- You can make your complaint to the Quality Improvement Organization. If you prefer, you can make your complaint about the quality of care you received directly to this organization (without making the complaint to us).
- The Quality Improvement Organization is a group of practicing doctors and other health care experts paid by the Federal government to check and improve the care given to Medicare patients.
- To find the name, address, and phone number of the Quality Improvement Organization for your state, look in Chapter 2, Section 4, of this booklet. If you make a complaint to this organization, we will work with them to resolve your complaint
- Or you can make your complaint to both at the same time. If you wish, you can make your complaint about quality of care to us and also to the Quality Improvement Organization.
You can submit a complaint about MyTruAdvantage directly to Medicare. To submit a complaint to Medicare, go to MedicareComplaintForm. Medicare takes your complaints seriously and will use this information to help improve the quality of the Medicare program. If you have any other feedback or concerns, or if you feel the plan is not addressing your issue, please call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY/TDD users can call 1-877-486-2048.
For more information regarding the Medicare Grievance Process, please refer to the chapter entitled "What to do if you have a problem or complaint” in your Evidence of Coverage.
How long does MyTruAdvantage have to make a decision about your grievance?
We have 30 calendar days to respond to your grievance. Upon completion of our review, we will notify you by phone or in writing. We will address all issues identified by you in your grievance and the reasons for our response. All grievances submitted to MyTruAdvantage in writing (mail, fax or email) including quality of care grievances will be answered in writing.
How do you file an expedited or fast grievance?
You have the right to an Expedited or Fast Grievance Process if MyTruAdvantage denied your request for a "fast coverage decision" or a ""fast appeal,"" or if we extended a coverage decision or appeal time frame about your request for Part C medical care. You may submit this type of compliant for Medical Care:
By phone: 1-844-425-4280 (TTY 711)
We are available as follows:
October 1 through March 31:
8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., local time, 7 days a week
April 1 through September 30:
8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., local time, Monday through Friday
On weekends and holidays, you will need to leave a message.
By writing:
You can use this grievance form
MyTruAdvantage
P.O. Box 428
Columbus, IN 47202-0428
You may submit this type of complaint for Part D or Drug:
By phone: 866-705-4182 (TTY users, please call 711)
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
By Writing:
MyTruAdvantage
Attention: Appeals and Grievances
MedImpact Healthcare Systems, Inc.
10181 Scripps Gateway Court
San Diego, CA 92131
By fax: 858-790-6060
Once we receive the expedited grievance, a Clinical Practitioner will review the case to determine the reasons for the denial of your request for a fast review or if the case extension was appropriate.
For more information about making complaints and the grievance process, see "What to do if you have a problem or complaint" in your MyTruAdvantage Select (HMO) Evidence of Coverage and MyTruAdvantage Choice (PPO) Evidence of Coverage.
Submitting a complaint to Medicare
You can submit a complaint to Medicare you can submit feedback directly to Medicare using the Medicare Complaint form.
Questions about appeals, or quality of care grievances?
If you have questions about appeals, exceptions and/or grievance or if you which to obtain an aggregate total of appeals/ exceptions/grievances filed with MyTruAdvantage, call us at 1-844-425-4280 (TTY 711). We are available as follows:
October 1 through March 31: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., local time, 7 days a week. April 1 through September 30: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., local time, Monday through Friday. On weekends and holidays, you will need to leave a message.
With Medicare, you have special rights and protections. Use this link for resources available to you to make sure your rights are protected, including the Medicare Beneficiary Ombudsman your-medicare-rights
Grievance and Appeal Data
MyTruAdvantage maintains Grievances & Appeal data on an annual basis. Such information may be obtained by submitting a request to:
ATTN: Grievances & Appeals
MyTruAdvantage
PO Box 428 Columbus IN 47202.
Or email us!
How to file an appeal
You can get a fast coverage decision only if you are asking for coverage for medical care you have not yet received. (You cannot ask for a fast coverage decision if your request is about payment for medical care you have already received.) You can get a fast coverage decision only if using the standard deadlines could cause serious harm to your health or hurt your ability to function. For more information, please see the section entitled “How to ask for a coverage decision or make an appeal” in your Evidence of Coverage.
What is an appeal?
An appeal is a formal way for you to request reconsideration or redetermination of a decision made by the plan. This includes, for example, a decision not to pay for a service or drug. You can file an appeal if you disagree with this decision.
Who may file an appeal?
You or your appointed representative (someone you name to act for you) may request an appeal. You can name a relative, friend, attorney, doctor, or someone else to act for you. You may have someone already authorized under state law to act on your behalf or an individual appointed with power of attorney for example. If you don’t and wish to have someone represent you, click on this link to download the appointment of representative form required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). This form is for use for appeals, coverage decisions, or grievances and is valid for one (1) year from the date from the date it has your signature and the signature of your appointed, unless revoked. For example, if the enrollee signs the form on January 1, 2025 and the representative signs on January 3, 2025 (or vice versa), the form is effective for one year starting on January 3, 2025.
How long do you have to request an appeal?
You have sixty-five (65) calendar days from the date of the notice your received to file an appeal with MyTruAdvantage.
How long does it take MyTruAdvantage to make a decision?
CMS requires MyTruAdvantage to make timely decisions about requests for reconsideration or redetermination of its decision to deny a service or drug. Our timeframes for making a decision start upon receipt of your request to appeal as follows:
- Part C or Medical Reconsiderations:
- Pre-service:
- Standard: 30 calendars days
- Expedited (medical condition requires a “faster” decision) or Part B drug: 72 hours
- Post-service: 60 calendar days
- Part D or Drug Redeterminations:
- Pre-service:
- Standard: 7 calendar days
- Expedited (medication condition requires a “faster decision): 72 hours
For some appeals you or we may need additional time. CMS allows an additional 14 calendar days if you ask for more time or if we need information that may benefit you in making our decision. If we decide to take extra time, we will tell you orally and in writing.
How do you request an appeal?
You can request an appeal as follows:
Part C or Medical Reconsiderations:
By phone: 1-844-425-4280 (TTY 711)
We are available as follows:
October 1 through March 31:
8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., local time, 7 days a week
April 1 through September 30:
8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., local time, Monday through Friday
On weekends and holidays, you will need to leave a message.
By writing:
MyTruAdvantage
P.O. Box 428
Columbus, IN 47202-0428
By fax: 1-812-378-7048
Part D or Drug Redeterminations:
If you are asking for a pharmacy appeal, you, your prescribing physician, or other prescriber may contact us:
By Phone: 866-705-4182 (TTY users, please call 711)
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
By Writing:
MyTruAdvantage
Attention: Appeals and Grievances, MedImpact Healthcare Systems, Inc.
10181 Scripps Gateway Court
San Diego, CA 92131
By Fax: 858-790-6060
- If you are calling us to start an appeal after normal business hours, please include all of the following information in your message:
- Customer's name
- Phone number
- Prescription being appealed with the strength
- Your doctor's name and phone number
- Stating whether you are requesting a Standard Pharmacy Appeal or Fast Pharmacy Appeal
What happens if your appeal is denied?
If MyTruAdvantage denies your appeal, we will send you an explanation of our decision in writing with information as follows:
- Part C appeals:
- MyTruAdvantage will automatically be send your appeal to the Independent Reviewer Organization (IRO) who reviews our decisions. This is called a Level 2 appeal. At Level 2, the IRO reviews our decision to determine if it is correct or if it should be changed. If you had a Fast Appeal at Level 1, the IRO reviews your appeal as a Fast Appeal. The time frames for making a Fast and Standard Appeal at Level 2 are the same as for the initial appeal. If the IRO agrees with our decision, you may have additional appeal steps available to you.
- Part D appeals:
- If MyTruAdvantage denies your appeal for a Part D prescription drug, you will need to choose whether to accept this decision or appeal it to Level 2. We will send you a notice of denial which will include instructions on how to make a Level 2 Appeal, including who can make the appeal, deadlines you must follow, and how to reach the review organization. The IRO reviews our decision and determines if it is correct or if it should be changed. If you had a Fast Appeal at Level 1, the IRO will review it as a Fast Appeal at Level 2. The time frames for a Fast and Standard Appeal at Level 2 are the same as for the initial appeal. If the IRO agrees with our decision, you may have additional steps available to you.
Appeal Levels 3, 4 and 5
If your appeal is not favorable at Level 2 you may be able to continue to appeal subject to certain CMS requirements:
- Level 3: in order to continue to a Level 3 Appeal, the dollar value of the drug or medical care you are requesting must meet a minimum amount. If it does not, you cannot make another appeal and the decision at Level 2 is final. The notice the IRO sends you will give you information on whether if the dollar value is high enough to continue to Level 3. If it is, you qualify for a Level 3 Appeal. At Level 3, an Administrative Law Judge will review your appeal. If you disagree with the decision the judge makes, you can move on to a Level 4 Appeal.
- Level 4: The Medicare Appeals Council (MAC), who works for the federal government, will review your appeal. If you disagree with the decision at Level 4, you may be able to move on to the next level of the review process.
- Level 5: Your appeal is denied by the MAC and will be reviewed by a judge at the Federal District Court. This is the last level of the appeals process. For more information about these additional levels of appeal, see the Chapter named "What to do if You Have a Problem or Complaint" in your MyTruAdvantage Select (HMO) Evidence of Coverage, or MyTruAdvantage Choice (PPO) Evidence of Coverage.
Fast Track appeals
If you are in a hospital or skilled nursing facility or receiving home health or hospice care and you think your Medicare-covered services are ending too soon, you have the right to a Fast Track Appeal. You will be given a notice by your provider before your services will end. This notice will tell you how to ask for a Fast Track Appeal. Be sure to read this notice carefully. If you don't get this notice, ask your provider for it. A Fast Track Appeal gives you the right to an immediate review by the Beneficiary and Family Quality Improvement Organization (BFCC-QIO) which will decide if your services should continue. In addition, here is some other important information to know about Fast Track appeals:
- You may ask your doctor for any information that may help your case if you decide to file a Fast Track Appeal.
- You must call your local BFCC-QIO to request a Fast Track Appeal no later than the time shown on the notice you get from your provider. Use the telephone number for your local BFCC-QIO listed on your notice.
If you miss the deadline, you still have appeal rights. Contact MyTruAdvantage for more information.
Medicare Star Ratings for Plans
Every year, Medicare evaluates health plan quality based on a 5-star rating system. A health plan's Star Rating can vary each year based on how well it performs in various categories. MyTruAdvantage is too new to receive a star rating. Please review the MyTruAdvantage Star Ratings document for more details.
Public Health Emergency Policy
In the event of a public health emergency within our service area, cost shares may be modified to ensure members have complete access to needed services, as allowed by CMS. In the event of a public health emergency, members can check back here at www.MyTruAdvantage.com for updated information or call Member Services at 844-425-4280.
Member Rights and Responsibilities
As a MyTruAdvantage member, you have certain rights and responsibilities when it comes to your plan and your health. It's important to understand your rights and responsibilities to ensure you get the most out of your MyTruAdvantage plan.
You can find a complete list of your rights and responsibilities as a member in Section 8 of the Evidence of Coverage (EOC) document for your plan.
Your Rights as a Member
As a MyTruAdvantage plan member, you have the right to:
- Information about us, our services, our providers, and your rights and responsibilities as a member
- Privacy and confidentiality regarding your medical care and records. Records pertaining to your healthcare will not be released without your, or your authorized representative's, written permission, except as required by law
- Discuss your medical record with your provider and receive, upon request, a copy of that record. Be informed of your diagnosis, treatment choices, including non-treatment and prognosis in terms you can reasonably expect to understand, and to participate in decision-making about your healthcare and treatment
- Collaborate with physicians and other health care providers when making decisions about the care you receive
- Expect reasonable access to medically necessary healthcare services, regardless of race, national origin, religion, physical abilities or source of payment
- File a formal complaint, as outlined in the plan's grievance procedure, and expect a response to that complaint within a reasonable period of time
- Be treated with courtesy and respect, with appreciation for your dignity and protection of your right to privacy
- Receive our "Notice of Privacy Practices"
- Expect your personal information to be kept secure and used appropriately for payment and health plan operations
- Expect MyTruAdvantage to adhere to all privacy and confidentiality policies and procedures
Your Responsibilities as a Member
As a MyTruAdvantage plan member, you are responsible for:
- Reading the coverage documents that explain your health plan and the accompanying member materials
- Understanding and complying with the terms and conditions of your plan
- Obtain and carefully consider all information you may need or desire in order to give informed consent for a procedure or treatment
- Calling us with questions
- Express opinions, concerns or complaints in a constructive manner
- Using participating/in-network health care providers for all services and supplies not requiring prior approval, or, if your plan allows you to use non-participating/out-of-network providers, then understanding the costs of services you choose to get from them
- Getting prior approval for medical services when required by your plan and complying with the limits of any approval of services
- Contacting participating health care providers to arrange for medical appointments and notifying them in a timely manner if an appointment must be canceled
- Paying copayments and any premiums by the date they are due
- Presenting your MyTruAdvantage member ID card to a health care provider before you receive a service
- Collaborating with your doctors and other health care providers to make informed decisions about the care you receive and to understand your health problems and health risks
- Following the instructions and working toward the treatment goals that you and your doctor or other health care provider agree upon. You may participate in developing your treatment goals when possible. MyTruAdvantage or your health care providers may ask you to agree to a written treatment plan to ensure you understand it
- Supplying your doctors, other health care providers and MyTruAdvantage with the complete and accurate information needed to ensure you receive proper care
- Notifying health care providers and us if you have other health insurance coverage
- Providing complete and accurate information on your enrollment form and in any other information provided to us
- Notifying us when your address or phone number changes, even if these changes are temporary
- Notifying us if your MyTruAdvantage membership card is stolen
- Cooperating with us to prevent the unauthorized use of your MyTruAdvantage membership card and to prevent anyone from using your benefits in your place
- Follow healthcare facility rules and regulations affecting patient care and conduct.
- Treating health care providers and their staff with respect
- Be considerate and cooperative in dealing with health care providers and their staff and respect the rights of fellow plan members
Member Disenrollment Rights and Responsibilities
Here is information to cancel or disenroll from your MyTruAdvantage plan.
When can I cancel?
Cancellation occurs when you request to leave your MyTruAdvantage plan before its effective date. You can cancel your plan:
- any time before the plan’s effective date
- within 7 days of receiving your Enrollment Verification letter
When can I disenroll from my plan?
Disenrollment occurs when you request to leave your MyTruAdvantage plan after its effective date. You can generally disenroll from your plan during the following times:
- Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP) October 15–December 7
- This election period applies for all Medicare plan types (Medicare Advantage plans, Prescription Drug plans, etc.)
-
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP) January 1–March 31
During OEP, you have a one-time opportunity to enroll in another Medicare Advantage plan or disenroll from your current Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare (with or without a stand-alone Part D plan).When disenrolling from your Medicare Advantage plan during OEP, the termination date is the end of the month in which the disenrollment request is received if returning to Original Medicare.
- Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
You can also disenroll during a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you qualify for SEP. Circumstances that may qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) are:- moving out of a plan’s service area
- losing group Medicare employer coverage
- qualifying for a low-income subsidy
- newly qualifying for a Special Needs Plan due to a chronic health condition
- eligibility for both Medicare and Medicaid (dual eligibility)
Members who elect to drop their Medicare Advantage plan coverage during AEP or OEP are not guaranteed the ability to obtain a Medicare Supplement policy. You can disenroll from Medicare Supplement plans at any time. However, MyTruAdvantage must receive your disenrollment request by the last day of the month in which you wish to disenroll or before the end of the election period. The termination date is the end of the month for the month of the requested termination, or as indicated in the policy.
How do I cancel or disenroll?
The most convenient way to cancel your plan before the effective date is to call MyTruAdvantage Member Services. The MyTruAdvantage Member Services team will guide you through the cancellation process. If you prefer, you can fax or mail a signed written request to cancel your plan.
Call MyTruAdvantage Member Services: 844.425.4280 (TTY: 711)
Our hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Local Time, 7 days a week. On Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, as well as on weekends and holidays from April 1 through September 30, alternate technologies (for example voice mail) will be used and we will return your call within one (1) business day.
To disenroll from your plan, you must send MyTruAdvantage a signed, written disenrollment request. You can print the simple disenrollment form here.
After you fill the form out and sign it, you can fax or mail it to MyTruAdvantage. If you prefer, you can write and sign your own disenrollment request.
Include the following information in the written request
- Member’s name
- MyTruAdvantage member ID number
- Plan name: MyTruAdvantage Select (HMO), MyTruAdvantage Select Plus (HMO), MyTruAdvantage Choice Plus (PPO) or MyTruAdvantage Red, White and Tru (PPO)
- Statement that you want to disenroll from your plan
- Requested disenrollment date
- Signature
- Reason for disenrolling
Note: Please reference the above Disenrollment Form link for a list of viable reasons to disenroll, based on your plan type
Submit the disenrollment form or a written cancellation or disenrollment request to:
MyTruAdvantage
PO Box 428
Columbus IN, 47201
Or fax to:
812.373.8717
If you have additional questions about cancellation or disenrollment, call MyTruAdvantage Member Services: 844.425.4280 (TTY: 711)
Our hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Local Time, 7 days a week. On Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, as well as on weekends and holidays from April 1 through September 30, alternate technologies (for example voice mail) will be used and we will return your call within one (1) business day.
Who can complete a disenrollment request?
Only the member or the member’s healthcare power of attorney (POA) or legal guardian can complete a disenrollment request.
What are my options during disenrollment?
There are options with disenrollment. When you disenroll from your plan, you can enroll in another carrier’s plan or return to Original Medicare.
Prescription drug plans (PDPs) are only available through private companies. If you do not maintain prescription drug coverage through Medicare Part D or other coverage that is at least as good as the Medicare drug benefit, you may incur a late enrollment penalty (LEP) that will be due as part of your monthly premium for the duration of any future PDP enrollment.
MyTruAdvantage notifies you of your disenrollment effective date after CMS approves the disenrollment. Until your disenrollment is effective, continue to fill your prescriptions at MyTruAdvantage network pharmacies to receive your prescription benefits.
If you’re making a plan change as part of your disenrollment, you can call our sales department at 1-833-213-6731 (TTY: 711), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week. On Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, as well as on weekends and holidays from April 1 through September 30, alternate technologies (for example voice mail) will be used and we will return your call within one (1) business day. If you have a valid election to change plans, our sales department can assist you in making a plan change.
Obtain Needed Care During a Disaster
If the Governor of your state, the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, or the President of the United States declares a state of disaster or emergency in your geographic area, you are still entitled to care from your plan.
If you cannot use a network provider during a disaster, your plan MTA will allow you to obtain care from out-of-network providers at in-network cost sharing. If you cannot use a network pharmacy during a disaster, you may be able to fill your prescription drugs at an out-of-network pharmacy. Please see the Evidence of Coverage for more information.