Network Provider Considerations
We are working closely with all our provider network partners to monitor the impact to their participating providers that are rapidly adapting to emerging federal, state and local mandates. We fully expect that we will continue to see some provider offices closing temporarily or limiting office services or hours. Because of the continuous volume of changes, the Provider Locator tools of our provider network partners may not reflect the current status of each provider office. As a result, we strongly encourage you to contact the provider directly prior to any appointments to verify office hours and appointment status.
Vision Benefits through EyeMed®
Members with vision insurance through Nippon Life Benefits will still have access to those benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic. As some provider offices may be closed, it is recommended that members contact their local provider to ensure their hours haven’t changed. To reduce contact, we encourage members to utilize online benefits. Please note that online sites will require a valid prescription (within the last 24 months for eyewear and within the last 12 months for contact lenses). Online, in-network options include Glasses.com, ContactsDirect, Ray-Ban.com, LensCrafters.com, and TargetOptical.com
If a member has an eyewear emergency but is unable to visit a provider, they are encouraged to visit the EyeMed Customer Care Center to discuss benefit options. For customers who are unable to leave their home, are having difficulty locating an open provider, and do not have a valid prescription, they may be eligible to receive an emergency pair of replacement temporary emergency Adlens Adjustable Glasses at no cost (subject to availability). Likewise, if an emergency pair is needed, please visit the Customer Care Center on the member portal.
Short Term Disability Eligibility
COVID-19 related illnesses are handled the same as any other illness and will be considered according to the applicable plan provisions.
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) requires certain employers to provide employees with paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19. Nippon Life Benefits’ short term disability benefits will be coordinated accordingly, as long as the employee meets the disability requirements as designated by their plan coverage.
In order to prevent delays in claims processing, Nippon Life Benefits asks for a completed Disability Claim form which can be found at https://www.nipponlifebenefits.com/member-service/
Changes to FSA/HSA Eligible Expenses
The CARES act includes a permanent change that allows for purchase of over-the-counter medications and feminine hygiene products using your flexible spending account (FSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA), or health savings account (HSA). A prescription is no longer needed for reimbursement. This change is effective for expenses incurred on or after January 1, 2020. Please allow time for these changes to be reflected at local retailers. If you have difficulties at time of purchase, you can manually submit your claim(s) for reimbursement by using the www.nipponlifebenefits.com link, or mail to:
FSA/HRA claims,
Nippon Life Benefits
P.O. Box 2968
Clinton, IA 52733
Phone: 1-800-374-1835
Fax: 1-866-514-8287
Email: fsa-hra@nipponlifebenefits.com