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To support your health and wellbeing, Western Governors University provides valuable benefits that help you and your family stay well. Your benefits ensure that you are covered.

Transparency in Coverage Final Rules

The Transparency in Coverage Final Rules require certain group health plans to disclose on a public website information regarding in-network provider rates and historical out-of-network allowed amounts and billed charges for covered items and services in two separate machine-readable files (MRFs). Find the Cigna MRFs for the Western Governors University medical benefit plans offered under the Western Governors University Cafeteria Plan as of July 1, 2022.

 

Overview

Take an active role in your healthcare coverage with one of WGU’s available medical coverage options:

  • High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)
  • Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP)

Our benefits program includes medical plan options with a range of coverage levels and costs so you can choose the one that’s best for you. These plans are administered by Cigna. You can enroll as a new hire, during Open Enrollment, or if you have a qualifying life event. You may also view your premiums.

2024 Medical Plans

High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)

Administered by: Cigna

Take charge of your spending through lower premiums, higher deductibles, and a tax-free Health Savings Account (HSA) with contributions from Western Governors University that you own for life.

Details
Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP)

Administered by: Cigna

Consider this plan if you prefer the predictability of office visit copays and lower deductibles, but with a significantly higher paycheck deduction.

Details
Key Words to Know
Deductible:

The amount you pay before the plan begins to pay

Out-of-Pocket Costs:

Expenses you pay yourself, such as deductibles, copays, and the remaining amounts after plan coinsurance is paid

Out-of-Pocket Maximum:

The maximum amount you pay for covered services in a year (you may need to pay additional amounts if coverage is received from an out-of-network provider)

Copay:

An amount you pay for a covered service each time you use that service, which usually does not apply toward the deductible

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Get to Know Your Plan
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Save Money

Use these tips to reduce your health care costs.

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Access Health Resources

Get help from a variety of programs and services.

 

Plan Comparison

How the WGU Medical Plans Compare

Before choosing which medical plan to enroll in, it's important to understand how they compare. The table provides a high-level comparison.

High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP)
What is different?
Premiums, Deductibles, Prescription Drugs
  • Lower premiums
  • Higher deductible
  • Prescription drug benefits available for a fixed coinsurance amount, after you meet deductible
  • Deductible waived for certain prescription medication classified as preventive
  • Higher premiums
  • Lower deductible
  • Prescription drug benefits available for a fixed coinsurance amount
HSA and FSA
  • Eligible for a Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Change your HSA contribution at any time during the year
  • Generous WGU matching contributions to your HSA
    • Employee-only: $1,000 per year ($38.46 per check)
    • Family: $2,000 per year ($76.92 per check)
  • Qualify for up to $750 in additional WGU contributions to your HSA through WGU Wellbeing program
  • Limited Purpose FSA available for dental and vision expenses
  • Healthcare FSA can be used for eligible medical, dental and vision expenses; generally may elect FSA contributions only during Open Enrollment, new hire window or qualifying life event
  • The LDHP is eligible for lower premiums for employees that participate in wellness activities
What is the same?
  • 100% coverage with no deductible for in-network preventive care
  • Cigna network-contracted fees for covered healthcare expenses
  • Comprehensive medical coverage, including access to a national network of doctors and hospitals
  • After you reach the annual out-of-pocket maximum, most covered in-network expenses are paid by the plan at 100% for the remainder of the calendar year
  • Critical Illness, Hospital and Accident Insurance options available as supplemental coverage
Behavioral Health Enhancement: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Support

Western Governors University is proud to offer enhanced Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and behavioral health (BH) support, including coverage for Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and treatment of disorders that have been diagnosed as organic mental disorders associated with permanent dysfunction of the brain.

Visit the Cigna website or call 800-244-6224 to learn more.

 

Medical Plans At-a-Glance

  High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP)
Choice of Providers Cigna OAP network. You can choose in-network or out-of-network providers. Referrals are not needed.
Health Savings Account (HSA) ($4,150 Employee Only or $8,300 for Family annual limit.) If you are over age 55, you are able to contribute an additional $1,000. Available with this plan. Refer to Health Savings section for details. Not available
Healthcare FSA Not available Available for medical, dental, and vision
Limited Purpose FSA Available for dental and vision expenses only Not available
In-Network Out-of-Network In-Network Out-of-Network
Calendar Year Deductible
Individual
(Note: only applies to Employee Only coverage under HDHP.)		 $2,000 $3,000 $750 $1,500
Family $3,500 $6,000 $1,500 $3,000
Calendar Year Out-of-Pocket Maximum (Includes Deductible)
Individual $4,000 $8 ,000 $3,000 $6,000
Individual Within a Family $7,000 $14,600 N/A N/A
Family $8,000 $16,000 $6,000 $12,000
You Pay You Pay
Coinsurance
Preventive Care $02 40%1 $02 40%1
Physician Office Visits 20%1 40%1 $15 Regular
$30 Urgent or Specialist copay		 40%1
WGU Virtual Care $55/visit until deductible is met; 20% thereafter $5 per visit
Emergency Room 20%1 20%1 $250 copay $250 copay
Inpatient Hospital Care 20%1 40%1 20%1 40%1
Outpatient Surgery3 20%1 40%1 20%1 40%1

1 After deductible.
2 Deductible does not apply to in-network preventive services. (Deductible applies for out-of-network preventive services.)
3 Out-of-network treatment for dialysis is not covered.

WGU Virtual Care

With advancements in technology, we have become comfortable with managing activities remotely – including virtual healthcare, primary care behavioral, and dermatology support. Whether you’re dealing with a routine illness or injury, or need access to counseling or mental health providers, WGU’s expanded virtual care options deliver cost-effective, around-the-clock access to consultations with board-certified providers via video, phone or app with our partners at MDLIVE.

We often think of virtual healthcare for fast access to a physician, but you can use MDLIVE for primary care appointments, too. MDLIVE board-certified doctors can help identify any potential health issues, discuss ways to improve your health, and even recommend follow-up care, if necessary. MDLIVE primary care helps you skip the drive and waiting to see a physician for your preventive care and wellness screening visits. Connect from just about anywhere via video or phone — 7 days a week, 365 days a year, including flexible hours.

MDLIVE – What You Pay

With MDLIVE, employees and family members covered under the Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP) only pay a $5 copay per visit. Employees and covered dependents that are enrolled in the High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) will have a $55 cost per exam. Once your deductible is met, you begin paying 20% of the $55 for an exam.

WGU medical plan members will have access to telehealth services exclusively through MDLIVE. Pre-registration is recommended before you need to use services.

Here’s some of the benefits of virtual care:

  • Choose when: Day or night, weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
  • Choose where: Home, work, or on the go.
  • Choose how: Phone or video chat.

If you are enrolled in a WGU medical plan, you and your enrolled dependents can get treatment for general illnesses, prescriptions for a range of medical conditions (subject to applicable state laws), dermatology support, primary care, and advice by live computer video or phone consultations for conditions such as:

  • Sore throats
  • Headaches
  • Stomach aches
  • Fevers
  • Colds and flu
  • Allergies
  • Rashes
  • Acne
  • Shingles
  • Bronchitis
  • Urinary tract infections and more
Registration is simple either via the web or over the phone

MDLIVE (for employees with WGU medical coverage)

*Availability may vary by location and plan type and is subject to change. See vendor sites for details.

Keep your Insurance ID Cards Digitally

You have immediate access to your Cigna ID cards and proof of coverage anytime via myCigna.com or the myCigna mobile app. You can view your cards on your device and digitally share it with your providers.

Need Help Deciding?

WGU has partnered with HealthEquity to provide an easy-to-use online tool to help you identify the medical plan option that may be best for you. Answer a few simple questions about your likely medical needs for the coming year and the tool will calculate estimated outcomes for each medical coverage option. Give it a try now! Go to comparemyhsa.com/wgu.

If you have further questions and would prefer to speak with someone over the phone, you may contact Health Advocate. Our partners at Health Advocate are extremely knowldegable in all of WGU’s benefits and will be able to help you dial in which plan may work best for you and your family. You may contact Health Advocate at 866-695-8622.

Find an In-Network Provider

You’ll save money when receiving care from an in-network provider.

  • Download the myCigna app to find in-network doctors, labs, and hospitals or visit the Cigna website. Get cost estimates for care, compare prescription prices, manage and track claims, and access your ID cards to print, fax, or email. The app also allows you to build your custom health team, a personal list of the in-network doctors, dentists, and facilities you use so you can easily keep track of their information all in one place.
  • Not currently enrolled in medical?
    • Go to www.Cigna.com
    • Select "Find a Doctor, Dentist, or Facility"
    • Select "Employer or School"
    • Enter your ZIP code
    • Select "Doctor by Type" or "Doctor by Name"
    • Continue as a guest
    • Search the "Open Access Plus, OA Plus, Choice Fund OA Plus" network for the provider of your choice
    • Use Cigna’s Brighter Match program to find high-quality, affordable medical and dental providers. Cigna’s proprietary Brighter Match algorithm will help you find providers with the best ratings for quality, cost, and patient satisfaction. Look for the Brighter Match provider designation on the Cigna website.
Important: Certain Medications at No Cost

Certain preventive medicines on Cigna’s ACA preventive drug list are covered under both the HDHP and Traditional Plan at no cost. Examples: contraceptives, select vaccines, folic acid, and breast cancer prevention. For a complete list of medications covered under this list, visit the Cigna website. In addition, some diabetic supplies, such as needles, lancets, and test strips are available to members at no cost when purchased on the same day as injectable insulin.

Covered by the HDHP?

Don’t forget — certain other common medications for chronic conditions are covered the same as they are under the Traditional Plan. Examples: antidepressants, medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, osteoporosis, and respiratory conditions. Under the HDHP, plan coverage for certain medications will apply right away, even if you have not met the plan deductible yet. To view these medications, refer to myCigna.com and access the “Prescriptions” section. Find a participating pharmacy, check drug coverage, arrange for home delivery, and compare prices at Cigna.

 

High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)

The High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) plan pairs low-premium, high-deductible coverage with a tax-free Health Savings Account (HSA) that helps you save money and plan ahead for future medical expenses. This combination gives you more control over your money and rewards you for making healthy, cost-conscious choices.

Higher Deductible, You’ve Got This

Under the HDHP, on an annual basis, WGU contributes up to $1,000 for Employee Only coverage and up to $2,000 for Employee plus Dependents coverage, as long as you are contributing at least that much over the year. This means you will need to contribute a minimum of $38.46 per paycheck for an employee only plan and $76.92 per paycheck for employee plus dependent(s) plan.

  • You can also earn up to $750 to your HSA by completing Preventive Activities in the Sonic Boom portal. Use or save your HSA contributions at your discretion.
  • Lower per-paycheck costs allow you to redirect money you would pay in premiums to your HSA instead, so you have more money to use when you need care.
  • Think of your HSA as a reserve to help cover your deductible. The 2024 in-network individual deductible is $2,000, and the in-network family deductible is $3,500. When you factor in all available WGU HSA contributions, your in-network deductible is pretty well covered!
  • If you have a year with few medical expenses, then the accumulated HSA funds stay in your account for the future.
  • Your overall out-of-pocket risk in any given calendar year is always limited by the out-of-pocket maximum. 
How the High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) Works

You pay the plan premium from your paycheck to have coverage.

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HSA

You can set aside tax-free money from your paycheck and receive company contributions to help cover your costs — now, or in the future.

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Deductible

You pay 100% of your medical and prescription costs until you meet the annual deductible.

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Coinsurance

After meeting the deductible, you and the plan share the cost of covered medical care and prescriptions, with the plan paying the majority.

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Out-of-Pocket Maximum

You’re protected by an annual limit on costs — the plan pays 100% of any further covered expenses for the rest of the year.

Keep in mind: You pay nothing for in-network preventive care — it’s covered in full.

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Use your HSA to save money and plan ahead!

Contributing to your HSA is a great way to budget for deductibles and other out-of-pocket expenses while also saving money — your HSA contributions are tax-free!*

Keep in mind:

  • The High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) costs you less from your paycheck, so you may have extra money available to put in your HSA.
  • You can only spend HSA money that’s actually been deposited into your account. If you don’t have enough money in your HSA when you need it, you can pay another way and reimburse yourself later so you take full advantage of your HSA’s tax savings.
  • You will never forfeit any money left in your HSA — it rolls over year after year. If you know about future expenses or want to save for your health care costs in retirement, set aside a little extra each paycheck so your balance can grow over time.
  • You can change your HSA contribution amount throughout the year as needed to keep up with any changes in your situation.

*Contributions are not subject to federal income tax. However, HSA contributions are currently subject to state income tax in CA and NJ. Consult with your tax advisor to understand the potential tax implications of enrolling in an HSA. Money in an HSA can be withdrawn tax-free as long as it is used to pay for qualified health-related expenses. If money is used for ineligible expenses, you will pay ordinary income tax on the amount withdrawn, plus a 20% penalty tax if you withdraw the money before age 65.

 

Traditional Low Deductible Health Plan (LDHP)

Have a chronic condition that requires regular doctor’s visits or expensive prescription medications? Planning on becoming pregnant or having a major surgery? Expecting to visit your doctor more than usual this year? If so, you might want to consider enrolling in the Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP).

Lower Deductible, Stay Prepared

  • Enrolling in the Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP) medical plan would require you to pay higher premiums, but it can help you save on your health care expenses in the long run — it may be easier to pay a little bit more every month instead of a large bill all at once when you receive medical care.
  • The Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP) plan has higher premiums than the High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP), but lower deductibles and out-of-pocket costs to account for reduced financial risk.
  • Higher per-paycheck costs allow you to have a greater predictability of your health care expenses, which puts you more in control of your health care spending.
  • If you have a year with many medical expenses, the lower deductible through the LDHP means you'll pay less out of your pocket before the plan starts to pay for your medical services.
  • To help with health care expenses, you can also enroll in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) if you are enolled in a Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP).
What Happens When I Reach My Deductible?

Once you meet the annual deductible for the Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP), the plan begins to pay for the cost of covered services, including doctor and specialist visits, lab work, scans, and more.

How the Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP) Works

You pay the plan premium from your paycheck to have coverage.

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Copay

You pay a small fee at the time of service for doctor visits and generic prescriptions. (Copays do not count toward your deductible.)

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Deductible

For certain medical services, such as inpatient hospital care or outpatient surgery, you pay 100% of your medical costs until you meet the annual deductible. (The deductible does not apply to office visits, prescriptions, and ER treatment.)

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Coinsurance

You and the plan share the cost, with the plan paying the majority. Coinsurance applies after you've met the deductible for inpatient hospital care and outpatient surgery. Coinsurance applies without a deductible for certain prescriptions.

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Out-of-Pocket Maximum

You’re protected by an annual limit on costs — the plan pays 100% of any further covered expenses for the rest of the year.

Keep in mind: You pay nothing for in-network preventive care — it’s covered in full.

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Save Money With an FSA!

A Health Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA) lets you take advantage of tax-free savings when paying for qualified health care expenses. But be sure to plan your FSA contributions carefully — you may carry over up to $610 in unused funds at the end of the year. Anything over that amount will automatically be forfeited. You must incur expenses on or before December 31, and submit those expenses for reimbursement by March 31 of the following year.

 

Prescription Drugs

When you enroll in a Western Governors University medical plan, you automatically receive prescription drug benefits through Cigna.

Prescription Drug Coverage At-a-Glance

High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP)
PharmacyIn-NetworkOut-of-NetworkIn-NetworkOut-of-Network
Retail Rx (up to a 30-day supply)2
Generic$10140%1$1040%
Preferred35%140%135%40%
Non-Preferred50%140%150%40%
Mail Order Rx (up to a 90-day supply)2,3
Generic$101Not covered$10Not covered
Preferred35%135%
Non-Preferred 50%150%

1 After deductible.
2 Your prescription may require step therapy, prior authorization, or a dispensing quality limit. Contact Cigna for additional details specific to your medications.
3 Prescription coverage is available through both in-network and out-of-network pharmacies. However, all specialty pharmacy prescriptions for rare and complex health conditions are dispensed and delivered to your home by Accredo (Cigna’s specialty pharmacy team).

Drug tiers

The cost of your prescription drugs under each medical plan depends on the tier of the medication — generic, preferred, or non-preferred. All prescription carriers have a formulary, or list of preferred drugs based on effectiveness and cost.

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Generic drugs

Same active ingredients as brand-name equivalents and meet the same standards for quality and effectiveness, but usually cost much less.

You pay: $

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Preferred drugs

Brand-name medications included on the formulary and favored by your prescription carrier.

You pay: $$

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Non-preferred drugs

Brand-name medications not preferred by your carrier. They may still be covered, but may require prior authorization and cost more.

You pay: $$$

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Check the formulary

See how medications are covered by logging in to your prescription account on the Cigna website.

Save Money on Prescriptions

The cost of prescription drugs is rising faster than many other health care services and supplies. But there are ways for you to save.

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Ask your doctor about generic medications.

Generic medications are generally just as effective as brand-name medications, but they typically cost between 80% and 85% less.

Use the home delivery feature.

If you take maintenance medication to treat a chronic condition — such as an allergy, heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes — the convenience and cost savings of the home delivery prescription programs through Cigna will save you time and money.

Take advantage of Cigna's Saveon Rx Specialty Drug Coupons.

If you are enrolled in a Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP), you have access to Cigna’s Saveon Prescription Specialty Coupons.

Why use home delivery?
  • Prescriptions are shipped to you for free — no waiting in line at the pharmacy.
  • You save money with a reduced cost for a three-month supply.
  • You can set up automatic refills.
Generic vs. Brand Name

Learn the facts and save money with generic drugs

Accredo Specialty Pharmacy through Cigna

Specialty medications are used to treat rare and complex conditions like cancer, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Like the conditions, these medications are complex and require close supervision and adherence to treatment to help achieve the best health outcomes. Cigna’s specialty pharmacy team (known as Accredo) will work directly with you and your physician to authorize and dispense all specialty medications under WGU medical coverage. The use of this dedicated specialty pharmacy features personalized assistance and home delivery of specialty medications. If you would like more information, contact Cigna at 800-244-6224.

Cigna’s Saveon Prescription Specialty Coupons

If you are enrolled in a Traditional Low Deductible Plan (LDHP), you have access to Cigna’s Saveon Rx Specialty Drug Coupons. This program works in conjunction with your prescription coverage to help you find the best price for your prescription medication. Learn more and activate your free account at Cigna.

 

Programs & Resources

Take advantage of these valuable programs and resources to better manage your health and financial well-being.

Omada® Diabetes Prevention Support

If you are enrolled in a WGU medical plan, you and your eligible dependents have access to Omada® (a Cigna Partnership) Diabetes Prevention Support.

Omada® is a personalized program designed to help you reach your health goals—whether that’s losing weight or improving your overall health. It combines real human support with the latest technology so you can make lasting changes, one step at a time.

With Omada®, you will …

Eat healthier

Learn the fundamentals of making smart food choices.

Increase activity

Discover easy ways to move more and boost your energy.

Overcome challenges

Gain skills that allow you to break barriers to change.

Strengthen habits

Zero in on what works for you, and find lasting motivation.

Stay healthy for life

Continue to set and reach your goals with strategies and support.

All at no additional cost to you:
If you or your covered adult dependents are enrolled in WGU medical plan offered through Cigna, are at risk for type 2 diabetes or heart disease, and are accepted into the program, you’ll receive the program at no additional cost.

Travel Reimbursement Benefits

To ensure that WGU employees have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare, regardless of where they live, we have expanded the travel reimbursement benefit to apply to all healthcare services covered under the WGU Medical Plan. This travel reimbursement benefit is currently available to those enrolled in a WGU medical plan who live more than 50 miles from a contracted provider* as well as those who live in states where a covered service is limited. In addition, broader coverage for abortion care has been added to WGU's Medical Plan.

This Travel and Lodging benefit covers up to $2,500 in total travel expenses for employees and/or their covered dependents. It also includes a $50 daily lodging cap for an individual and a $100 daily lodging cap for employees traveling with a companion. For additional details on these enhanced travel and lodging benefits as well as instructions on how to file a claim for reimbursement, please contact Cigna at 800.244.6224.

*Travel & lodging benefit available for in-network providers only

Whatever ‘healthy’ means to you, Omada® helps you get there by providing:

  • An interactive program
  • A wireless smart scale
  • A personalized plan created for you
  • A dedicated care team to help answer all your questions
  • Weekly online lessons
  • A professional health coach

See If You’re Eligible:

Visit omadahealth.com/omadaforcigna.

Additional Support

Employees with WGU medical coverage have access to Cigna support resources for conditions like diabetes, COPD, asthma and other chronic health matters. One-on-one assistance is available to help you with:

  • Locating online resources for your condition
  • Understanding your condition, diagnoses, medications, triggers, and warning signs
  • Establishing and following a personal care plan
  • Setting health goals and improving healthy habits
  • Hospital admissions
  • Comparing treatment options

Log in to the myCigna app or the Cigna website to learn more about their diabetes management program, available to medical plan members who have been diagnosed with diabetes. Receive a smart touchscreen glucose meter that automatically uploads readings and provides personalized tips, as well as unlimited test strips and support from coaches.

Cigna Gender Affirmation Program

Receive high level support from a team of Cigna experts called the Gender Affirmation Support Champion Team regarding eligibility and other questions during a gender affirmation journey.

The Gender Affirmation Support Champion Team are experienced with gender transitioning and can help:

  • Partner with you and your providers to make informed decisions
  • Help locate the right medical and behavioral professionals
  • Help you to understand your eligibility and WGU benefits
  • Assist with getting you to the right team when you need support
  • Help you answer questions that may arise along the way

Learn More

Call Cigna at 800-244-6224 or visit the Cigna website.

Medical Plan Tools

Visit your medical plan website to find a doctor, compare costs, manage claims, and more.

Prescription Tools

Visit your prescription plan website to order or refill prescriptions, sign up for home delivery, and more.

HSA and FSA Tools

Visit your tax-advantaged account website to manage your HSA or FSA accounts online, use calculators, and more.

 

Find a Doctor

Using in-network providers saves you money. If you are enrolled in a Western Governors University medical plan, here’s how to find doctors in your plan network. .

Cigna

  • Visit the Cigna website.
    • Go to myCigna.com
    • Enter your username & password. If you’re a first time user take this opportunity to ‘Register’
    • Select ‘Find Care & Costs’
    • Enter your zip code
    • Search for a provider by type, name, reason for visit, health facilities etc.
  • Know before you go. Before you visit any provider or facility, we recommend you call ahead to be sure they are in your plan’s network, as well as confirm their address, office hours, and that they are accepting new patients.
  • Meet the provider in person. Ask to schedule an introductory appointment. This appointment can help you decide if the provider is a good fit for you.\
  • Expanded Travel and Lodging Benefits: When providers are not available within a 50-mile radius of your home location for medical services, our Cigna medical plans will cover up to $2,500 in total travel expenses (which includes a $50 daily lodging cap for an individual and up to $100 daily lodging cap if traveling with a companion) for employees and their dependents requiring travel for all procedures, including those related to reproductive and gender-affirming care. For more information and assistance filing a claim, contact Cigna at 800-244-6224 or chat with a representative online at myCigna.com.
Don’t have a personal doctor? You should. Here’s why.
  • Better health. Getting the right health screenings each year can reduce your risk for many serious conditions. Preventive care is free under both the LDHP and the HDHP.
  • A healthier wallet. Having a doctor you can call helps you avoid costly trips to the emergency room and decide when you really need to see a specialist.
  • Peace of mind. Advice from someone you trust ... it means a lot when you’re healthy, but it’s even more important when you’re sick. Your personal doctor gets to know you and your health history and can help coordinate any care you need.
 

Money-Saving Tips

When you carefully consider the financial impact of your health care choices, you can help lower costs for yourself and the entire company. Get the most from your medical benefits by following these tips to be well and buy smart:

  1. Use in-network providers. They’ve agreed to charge only up to negotiated rates and bill your insurance company directly, which saves you money and time. Also, check with your insurance company to ensure that a service is covered before you receive care.
  2. Keep up with preventive care. It’s covered in full by all of our medical plans and can help detect and prevent potentially costly health issues early. You pay nothing for annual physicals, recommended immunizations, routine cancer screenings, and more when you see in-network providers.
  3. Use tax-free money to pay for eligible health expenses. Contributing to a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Health Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is easy and saves you money. You can set aside before-tax dollars from your paycheck to use for out-of-pocket costs. Keep in mind that with an HSA, you can only spend contributions that have actually been deposited into your account. And with an FSA, you can only carry over up to $610 of unused money in your FSA to the next year; you will forfeit amounts above $610.
  4. Shop smart for prescriptions. Using generic alternatives will almost always save you money — and they’re just as effective as brand-name prescriptions. Also, try calling a few local pharmacies to compare prices before deciding where to fill a prescription. For your ongoing prescriptions, use the home-delivery service to save money and time.
  5. Take advantage of the Western Governors University Wellbeing program. It offers valuable resources to help you improve your health, which could prevent the need for costly care. Plus, if you are enrolled in either the LDHP or the HDHP, you will have an opportunity to receive medical plan incentives! Not only that, you will have an opportunity to earn Boomer Bucks that you can redeem for merchandise in the Sonic Boom online store. If you are not enrolled in either of WGU’s medical plans, you can still participate and earn Boomer Bucks!
  6. Use your medical plan’s website. Log in to the Cigna website to see how much of your deductible you’ve met, review claims, find in-network providers, use helpful cost-estimating tools, and more.
  7. Choose the right place to get care. Facilities charge different amounts for the same services, so think about your options when you or a family member needs medical attention. Use the guide below to help you save money and choose the most appropriate care for your situation.
Telehealth Doctor’s office Urgent care clinic Emergency room
Use it for
A common, non-emergency medical issue that can be diagnosed by phone or online A condition that doesn’t need immediate attention and can wait until the next day A condition that needs immediate care but is not life- or limb-threatening A life-threatening or potentially crippling condition that needs immediate attention
Examples
  • Colds and allergies, flu/cough
  • Ear infections, pink eye
  • Behavioral health
  • Sore throat, fever
  • Routine exam, screening
  • Checkup, vaccine, prescription refill
  • Broken bone, severe sprain or strain
  • Cut requiring stitches
  • Anxiety attack
  • Sudden weakness, dizziness, or loss of consciousness
  • Uncontrollable bleeding
  • Chest pain, difficulty breathing
Cost
You pay: $ You pay: $ You pay: $$ You pay: $$$
Find it
Visit MDLIVEforCigna.com to get started Call your regular doctor or search for an in-network provider on your medical plan carrier’s website Search for urgent care clinics near you at https://www.solvhealth.com/urgent-care Call 911 or search online for the nearest hospital