Shirlee Zerkel to Gary Russell: Questions about new option proposed Advantage plan

From Shirlee Zerkel, May 30, 2007
Subject: Questions about new option proposed Advantage plan

Hello Mr. Russell,

I wrote to Mr. Asbury with some questions about the new optional Advantage Plan and he wrote back saying that he had turned it over to some of the staff.

Can you enlighten me any about how this plan will work?

I am concerned that it could become a financial problem for STRS in the future. I understand that there would be a subsidy for STRS if they would implement this plan.

1. Would that be a one time subsidy or every year that STRS offers it to their retirees?
2. Would it be based on just because STRS offers the plan or is the subsidy based on the number of members who sign up for the plan?
3. I understand the subsidy is 12 to 14%. My question is 12 to 14% of what?
4. If a member would be unhappy with the plan, would that retiree be able to switch back to traditional Medicare?
5. What would STRS be responsible for in this plan?
6. Would the retirees in the plan be restricted to in-network providers?
7. How would the Medicare B premium payment be handled?
8. Is it true that only retirees who have both Medicare A and B are eligible for this plan?

Thank you for considering my questions,

Shirlee