Medical Insurance

IMS offers extensive Medical Insurance through CaliforniaChoice. The employee may choose between the HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) and PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), with coverage to become effective on the first of the month following 30 days of employment. IMS will pay for the full time salaried employee's insurance.

Dependent Insurance may be purchased at the employee's cost. Contractors may purchase Medical Insurance through IMS. Please call or e-mail your recruiter for the cost of coverage.

When do I become eligible?

The first day of the month, following 30 days of employment.

If I don't join when I first become eligible, may I join later?

Yes, but, you may have limited benefits for a period of time as determined by the insurance company.

What is the difference between an HMO and a PPO?

The primary difference is in the ability to select your own doctor. With an HMO, you choose a Primary Care Physician from a list provided by the insurance company. You must obtain a referral from that physician before you can see a specialist. In return for giving up the ability to see an out-of-plan doctor, you generally have lower out of pocket costs.

Under a PPO you may see any doctor. If you see a plan doctor, the insurer has negotiated a lower fee for services. Also, under a PPO, you do not need to receive prior authorization to visit a specialist.

What if I change my mind after selecting either the HMO or PPO?

You may switch from one plan to the other only at Open Enrollment in June for July 1st. effective date..

What if I don't like my Primary Care Physician in the HMO?

You may change your Primary Care Physician as often as once a month.

Are pre-existing conditions covered?

HMO: yes
PPO: yes, but only if you have had continuous coverage under any medical insurer for the six months prior to your enrollment date. If at the time you join IMS, another medical insurer has not covered you, you may need to serve a waiting period to receive treatment for a pre-existing condition.

What if I have other questions regarding Medical Insurance?

Call CaliforniaChoice Customer Service at (800) 558-8003

8:00am – 5:00pm Monday through Friday (closed Sat-Sun)

Or view the CaliforniaChoice website in new window: www.calchoice.com

Or e-mail or call your recruiter at (310) 822-2022.

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