June 3, 2014: The Western Region and Local 177 Health Plan has issued a two-page summary of “talking points” to all local unions and union representatives, so that they can answer members’ questions.

We are making the summary available to members, to help everyone learn the basics of coverage under the plan.

The new health plan covers UPS Teamsters in much of the West and in New Jersey Local 177. Some members have expressed concern about the fact that eligibility will be determined on a weekly basis (see page 2 of the summary) instead of monthly. This means that if you are off work for one full week due to being injured off the job or other uncompensated reasons, you will temporarily lose coverage. Note that you will be covered for FMLA absences, as required by the FMLA.