In an effort to address employees’ concerns about using social security numbers to access health and welfare benefits, UC has been working closely with its health plan carriers to identify alternative options. To date, most carriers have transitioned away from using full social security numbers for identification purposes.
Sykes Health Plan Services (SHPS)
SHPS is in the process of developing identification alternatives for members. For employees who visit the SHPS website, identification information is highly protected, as the company uses Secure Sockets Layer technology to encrypt the data submitted through the site. In addition, plan members are not required to provide their social security number when speaking with an SHPS Customer Service representative; SHPS is able to locate the member's records by searching the name, address and other personal data.
Vision Service Plan (VSP)
Now, VSP providers can check member eligibility using the last four digits of a member's social security number, first and last name, and date of birth. Additionally, members who do not want to provide the last four digits of their social security number can request that their doctor contact VSP to obtain an authorization using only the employee's last name, first name, date of birth and group name (UC). The use of the alternate method is optional and UC employees and their covered family members are not required to use the alternate method to receive services.
If you have any questions about identification options for obtaining information about health and welfare benefits, contact Benefits Services.
Campus Human Resources, Benefits Services
Phone: (310) 794-0830 | Fax: (310) 794-0835
