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Health & Welfare

Health and Welfare History

Local Union 281 U.A. Health and Welfare fund established November 12, 1952.

The original agreement and Declaration of Trust entered into on the 12th day of November 1952 by and between National Automatic Sprinkler and Fire Control Association of New York and Chicago Journeymen Sprinkler Fitters and Apprentices Local Union 281 of the United Association, was established to provide health insurance for “eligible employees” under the Jurisdiction of the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

The term “eligible employee” shall include:

  1. All employees and dependents of employers
  2. Retired employees
  3. Union employees.

Our current officers and staff are:

John T. Zubricks Welfare Fund Trustee
Timothy Morrin Welfare Fund Administrator
Kelly Jo Lavko Assistant Administrator
Marion McInturff Welfare Fund Representative
Jean Kelly Welfare Fund Representative
Katie Hummer Welfare Fund Representative
Mary Mitchell Welfare Fund Representative
Erica Veugeler Welfare Fund Representative
Nancy Wakeham Welfare Fund Representative

At the time of the original agreement, there were 350 members, and the funding mechanism was 7-1/2 cents per hour for each man- hour of work.

To say we have come “a long way” would be an understatement. The current membership has grown to over 1550 members and the contribution rate is $8.50 per man- hours worked.

“The Fund” is totally self- insured and administered from our office at 11900 S. Laramie, Alsip, IL. “The Fund” includes medical, dental and eye care.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • "I went to the pharmacy and they would not accept the prescription card. Why?"
  • "When I submit my claims, how long until I will get reimbursed?"
  • "How much will I get reimbursed for eye care?"
  • "How much is the deductible for dental services?"
  • "I went to the pharmacy and they would not accept the prescription card. Why?"

    We are currently using Sav-Rx prescription company. If you do not have a Sav-Rx prescription card contact the Welfare Department at 708-597-1832.  In order to receive reimbursement for secondary prescription claims, you must use your Sav-Rx card.

    "When I submit my claims, how long until I will get reimbursed?"

    Reimbursement usually takes about 30 days from received date.  If the provider is in the Blue Cross Blue Shield network, simply present your Blue Cross Identification card.  If you do not have a card, or have a card that has your social security number on it, please contact the Welfare Fund for a new card.

    If the provider is out of network, your claim will be subject to an out-of-network deductible of $200.00 and your claim will be reimbursed at 80%.

    "How much will I get reimbursed for eye care?"

    Eye care is no longer handled through the Welfare Fund office.  It is still a calendar year plan (January to December) for each family member.  Local 281 is now contracted with Eye Med.  You can visit their web site for further information, and to find a provider near you. 

    www.eyemedvisioncare.com (Select plan)

    "How much is the deductible for dental services?"

    The deductible for dental is $25.00 per calendar year for each member, and then the remaining charges are paid at 90% of usual and customary up to $1500.00 per calendar year.


     

     
     

    © 2006 SPRINKLER FITTERS UA LOCAL 281. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.