Effective January 1, 2020, UC Davis Health will no longer provide primary care services through Western Health Advantage (WHA) for UC employees, retirees and their dependents. Making sure members have access to a UC medical center if they choose is a priority for UC. Without UC Davis Health in the WHA network, UC’s WHA members would lose their access to a UC medical center and the vast majority would need to change providers. UC has therefore decided that it will not offer WHA as a health plan for 2020.
Western Health Advantage will continue to be available for current members, and as an option for newly-hired employees, through 2019.
Members of WHA will have the opportunity to choose a new medical plan during Open Enrollment from October 31 – November 26, 2019. WHA members who do not make a medical plan selection during the Open Enrollment period, will be automatically enrolled in UC Blue & Gold HMO effective January 1, 2020, along with their covered dependents. UC Blue & Gold HMO offers access to UC Davis Health primary care providers and is the UC plan most similar in design and features to WHA.
The UC Blue & Gold network is almost identical to the network of medical providers available through WHA, with the exception of NorthBay Health. At UC’s request, HealthNet will attempt to recruit NorthBay Health into its network. There is considerable overlap between the UC Blue & Gold/MHN behavioral health provider network and Optum’s network. You may be able to confirm your provider during Open Enrollment.
Changes in health insurance coverage can be quite an adjustment for individuals and their families. UC Systemwide Human Resources is working diligently to close any gaps in medical group and provider access to ensure a seamless transition in 2020. Please read your Open Enrollment materials for all of the details about your choices. In the meantime, refer to FAQs for more information about the transition.