Frequently Asked Questions

Who can enroll in the MHBP?

The Mail Handlers Benefit Plan is open to everyone - federal and postal employees and annuitants alike.

Is MHBP a PPO or a HMO?

MHBP is a national PPO plan. So you are covered no matter where you live, work or travel nationwide. You have complete freedom of choice and flexibility with MHBP.

Do you coordinate benefits with Medicare?

Absolutely! MHBP makes having Medicare hassle-free for you . You need only provide us with some basic information and we will take it from there. You won't have any paperwork to manage and our helpful service representatives will be there for you 24/7.

Why should I choose MHBP?

The MHBP has proudly served the federal population for over 45 years. We have a solid track record of delivering value for your money and unparalleled 24/7 customer service. Our health plans cater to the needs of single, married or retired persons. Whatever your stage of life or health status you can count on MHBP to be there for you - making things easier!

What area(s) does your network cover?

Our nationwide network covers all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. We have over 590,000 health care providers and 4,600 hospitals participating in our network. You're even covered outside the U.S. - your PPO benefits go wherever you are.

Is enrollment with a primary care physician (PCP) required?

No. You can see any physician you choose. PCP enrollment is not required.

Are referrals required to see a specialist?

No. MHBP does not require referrals to see a specialist.

Are non-network benefits available?

Yes. With MHBP you can see non-network providers and receive benefits for covered care. However, you get the highest level of benefit when you use network providers. Some benefits (e.g., annual physicals) may require the use of network providers. Refer to the official plan plan brochure for more details.

Who is responsible for filing claims?

When you use network providers they will file your claims for you. When using non-network providers you may be required to file your own claims.

Do the copayments for specialists and PCPs differ?

No. Whether you see a specialist or primary care physician the copayment remains the same.

Can I switch to your plan if I expect to retire soon?

Yes. The federal government requires that you are enrolled in any FEHBP plan for five consecutive years prior to retiring to take your health benefits into retirement with you. However, you are not required to stay with the same health plan during this five-year period. You are completely free to switch to MHBP without compromising your eligibility for benefits for retirement.

What level of coverage is provided for maternity services?

You get 100% coverage for maternity care services, including room and board at a network hospital. And pre and postnatal care is covered 100%. See the official plan brochure for more details.

Is well-child care covered?

Yes. PPO Well-child care is covered 100% for dependents up to age 18. There is no dollar limit or deductible that applies to this benefit.

Is an annual physical exam covered under you plan?

Yes. An annual physical exam for adults (age 18 and up) is covered 100% when you use a participating PPO provider. See the official plan brochure for more details.

Are preventive screenings like mammograms and cholesterol screenings covered?

Preventive screenings are covered 100%. See the official plan brochure for more details.

What are your benefits for emergency care?

You would pay a $50 copayment for emergency care received at an urgent care center or $150 copayment if at a hospital (the hospital copayment is waived if you are admitted). No deductible applies to accidental injury emergencies. See the official plan brochure for more details.

Is coverage available for chiropractic care?

Yes, for a low copayment of $15 and there is no deductible. A combined annual maximum of $2,500 applies to alternative, chiropractic and rehabilitative services.

Does your prescription benefit require a copayment, coinsurance or deductible?

You pay only predictable low copayments for your prescription medications and there is no deductible to meet first. Our copayments are as low as $10 (generic medications). And, you have the option of using our mail order pharmacy for even greater savings and convenience.

What are the out-of-pocket costs when Medicare Parts A & B are primary?

When you have Medicare Parts A & B as your primary coverage with Standard Option you have little to no out-of-pocket expenses. MHBP waives your medical copayments and deductibles—even those required by Medicare. Doctor visits, hospitalizations and surgeries are covered 100%. And, you pay only low copayments for your prescription medications. See our Official Plan Brochure for more details.

How much is a doctor visit? Is there a deductible to meet first?

You pay only a low copayment of $20 for an adult doctor office visit and $10 for dependent children under age 22 and no deductible applies.