Learn How To Handle Requests From Religious Groups Wanting to Change Their Contraceptive Coverage

You may receive questions from groups inquiring about contraceptive benefits or how to remove contraceptive benefits from their plan.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan wants you to know:

•    What needs to happen to change a group’s contraceptive coverage
•    How you can assist groups wanting to make those changes

Note: The effects of the Burwell v. Hobby Lobby decision, which involved a closely held, for-profit corporation, are not final. Tell these types of groups that inquire about their status and contraceptive coverage under “Hobby Lobby” to contact their legal adviser.

At this time we can only accept requests from nonprofit religious groups to remove contraceptive coverage from their plan.

What types of groups do not have to offer contraceptive coverage?
There are two types of groups that can remove contraceptive coverage from their plans. At the minimum, they must be nonprofit and religiously affiliated. See the table below for more information and details.

How does a group remove contraceptive benefits from its plan?
• The group must first determine if it is an eligible religious organization.
If the group is not sure about whether it is a religious organization, the group should consult its legal adviser on the group’s status.

• The group must fill out, sign and submit one of the following forms to the group’s managing agent to begin the process of having contraceptive coverage removed from the group’s plan. This table shows the form that a religious group or religiously accommodated group must complete and submit.

After submitting the forms listed above, you’ll  receive approval through your managing agent. This will be your confirmation to do the new business request. By waiting for approval, we can avoid making retroactive changes to the group’s benefits and bills.

Please note: If a group has a court order related to these benefits, we will handle those situations on a case-by-case basis.

Where can I get more information about religious accommodation?
Click here to refer to this frequently asked questions document.

Questions? Contact your Blues sales representative or managing agent.