1 - How does Avenue H expand choice for employees?

Avenue H puts employees - not employers - in control of health plan decisions. Employees can pick the coverage that best suits their own needs, preferences, and budget. Avenue H lets them compare plans from multiple providers, calculate their premium contribution, and apply for coverage online.

2 - Do defined contribution plans available through Avenue H preserve the tax benefits of traditional employer-sponsored plans?

Yes. Health insurance plans available on Avenue H preserves the tax benefits of traditional employer-sponsored plans. Premium contributions are made with pre-tax dollars, reducing the employee's tax liability. Certain plans available on Avenue H may also allow pre-tax contributions to a Health Savings Account (HSA) which the employee owns.

3 - Does Avenue H allow for plan portability?

In the near future, this is a possibility.  As employer participation increases, employees will no longer have to switch their health plan if they switch their job, providing that both employers participate in a define contribution plan via Avenue H.

4 - What is premium aggregation?

Premium aggregation is a mechanism to pay insurance premiums with contributions from multiple sources. The unique feature of Avenue H allows employees aggregate the defined contribution from your employer, your premium contribution, and contributions from other sources, such as second employer, a spouse's employer, state assistance programs, etc.

5 - Can coverage be denied if my employer sponsors a plan through Avenue H?

No. Plans available to employees through Avenue H are guaranteed issue. Employees cannot be denied coverage for pre-existing conditions.