Quality Health Matters
News and Updates for Employer Groups

April 18, 2024

Member ID Card Issuance and Updates

We are making two changes to our current QualChoice ID card. As a result of these changes, members will receive a new ID card and a letter of explanation. This mailing will reach member mailboxes beginning the week of April 15, 2024.


  • The phone number indicated for out-of-area providers is changing to the QualChoice Customer Service line, 800.235.7111 or 501.228.7111. 
  • The “Stratose” logo will also be removed from the back of the ID card.


Neither of these changes will affect benefits or access to Arkansas In-Network providers, or out-of-state in-network providers while traveling or for students out of area.


If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your Account Service Representative (PDF).

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Is April 27, 2024, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a safe and easy way to dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs.


According to artakeback.org, Arkansas is ranked second in the nation for over-prescribing opioid drugs. Since 2000, deaths involving opioids have increased by 200% in the U.S. Most of these drugs come from family and friends. They often come from a home medicine cabinet.

 

Unused medicines should be disposed of properly, as soon as possible. That's why the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) is again partnering with local law enforcement for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on April 27, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Locate a Collection Site Near You

IRS Provides Clarification on Spending Accounts and Medical Expenses

On March 6, 2024, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released a news alert (IR-2024-65) reminding taxpayers and health plan spending account administrators that personal expenses for “health and wellness” are not medical expenses as defined by the Internal Revenue Code (IRC). These types of expenses are not reimbursable under health flexible spending accounts (FSAs), health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs).


To learn more about medical expenses related to nutrition, wellness, and general health, and to determine whether a food or wellness expense is a qualified reimbursable medical expense, visit the frequently asked questions page on the IRS website.

Updated Forms


To make sure you are using current QualChoice forms, please download from the Employer Forms page at QualChoice.com each time you need to use one. View Employer Forms.



In the Media


Three tips for creating nutritious, budget-friendly meals was recently featured in Southwest Arkansas Today. For more health tips and information, visit QualChoice.com/news.


QCA24-AR-H-221

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