Md. Code Regs. 31.11.14.03

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 12, June 14, 2024

Section 31.11.14.03 - Components of a Wellness Benefit

A. Each wellness benefit shall include:

(1) A health risk assessment that is:

(a) Available at no cost to all employees covered under the small employer's wellness benefit; and

(b) Completed by each employee on a voluntary basis;

(2) Written feedback to each employee who completes the health risk assessment, with recommendations for lowering risks identified in the completed health risk assessment; and

(3) A financial incentive to promote:

(a) Preventive care;

(b) Healthy behavior and lifestyle choices; or

(c) Participation in a disease management program or case management program.

B. The financial incentive described in §A(3) of this regulation may be in the form of:

(1) A direct reward of financial value given to the employee, such as a monetary reward or a gift card; or

(2) A reduction in the employee's copayments, coinsurance, or deductible that would otherwise be payable under the small employer's health benefit plan.

C. A carrier shall be considered to have satisfied the requirement of §A(3) of this regulation, if the wellness benefit offered by the carrier eliminates the deductible for preventive services only.

Md. Code Regs. 31.11.14.03

Regulations .03 adopted as an emergency provision effective April 1, 2008 (35:9 Md. R. 896); adopted permanently effective July 17, 2008 (35:14 Md. R. 1248)