Fund Obtains Reduced Rates for Orthotic Appliances

The PFT Health and Welfare Fund has entered into an agreement with Pro Support Systems to provide reduced rates for orthotic appliances. An orthotic is a three-layered shoe insert made to control and balance the foot while providing cushioned shock absorption. The discounted price for members of the Fund (including dependents) will be $195.00. This includes the casting. The usual price could be over $400.00.

Beginning June 1, 2004 in order to initiate the process, a participant must contact the PFT Health and Welfare Fund Office at 215-561­2722 and:

1.     Request verification of eligibility.

2.       Receive eligibility verification in the mail.

3.     Contact Pro Support Systems at 610-664-0848 or 1-800-262-3338.

4.    Make arrangements for payment for and - receipt of an Orthotic Certificate. You will also receive a list of providers who participate in the Pro Support Systems Network and accept the Orthotic Certificate. 5. Upon receipt of the Orthotic Certificate the member will choose a provider from the list. Remember, you must use a provider who participates in the program to receive the discount.

A member who notifies Pro Support Systems that he/she is not satisfied within 60 days of receipt of the orthotic will receive a $145.00 refund.

Once you receive the Orthotic Certificate, your medical insurance will determine the next step.

Personal Choice

Those with Personal Choice will select a provider from the Pro Support Systems Network and present the voucher. In addition to the orthotic appliance fee, the member will be responsible for the co-pay for the first visit only. There will be no charge for subsequent visits related to the dispensing of the orthotic.

All providers in the Pro Support Systems Network participate in the Personal Choice Program. In the event a provider ceases to participate, the patient will not be responsible for any charges beyond the above-mentioned co-pay.

Keystone

Members enrolled in Keystone will see their Keystone Provider and obtain a prescription from the Keystone Provider for the orthotic. If the provider is a member of the Pro Support Systems Network the provider will cast and fit the orthotic. Should the Keystone doctor not be a member of the Pro Support Systems Network, the patient will select a provider from the Pro Support Systems Network, present the Orthotic Certificate and receive the casting and fitting. There will be no additional charges.

Medicare

The procedures will be the same as for Personal Choice. In all instances, Medicare will be the secondary payer.

Eligibility

All members of our bargaining units, their dependents, and retirees from one of our bargaining units are eligible. There is no waiting period.