Coordination of Benefits and Newborns

[Guest Lori Townsley]

In the state of Pennsylvania a law was enacted in 1975 making newborn coverage mandatory for the first 31 days of life. Can any one tell me if Coordination of Benefits would start on the 32 day or immediately within that 31 days. I have a newborn that we are unable do determine which carrier is primary due to this law.

[KIP KRAUS]

Lorie:

I don’t know what the state law mandates specifically, but if you are in fully-insured medical plans the insurers will determine COB. Give them a call. Your Summary Plan Descriptions should also give you the information. In my opinion, it shouldn’t be a problem in fully-insured plans because. As I said, the insurers will make the determination.