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).

Group Term Life Plans No Longer Mandatory on Small Group Plans

We’re making it easier for small groups to customize their plan offerings. QualChoice no longer requires small groups to include life insurance in their plans, providing greater flexibility and savings.

To meet the needs of a diverse workforce, we continue to offer a full range of integrated products, including basic supplemental, and dependent term life insurance, as well as accidental death and dismemberment benefits. 

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.