Health Republic Insurance of New York

[redacted] 
[redacted]...

[redacted]Dear Sir/Madam:Thank you for your inquiry in connection with the captioned complaint, Health Republic Insurance of New York (“Health Republic”) hereby responds to complaint ID [redacted] received by the Revdex.com (“Revdex.com”), which Revdex.com relayed to us on March **, 2015. The member enrolled for a policy of insurance with Health Republic, through the New York State of Health (“Exchange”), effective, March *, 2014. According to the Complainant, she had a premium payment allocated towards January, 2014, although, she was previously informed that her January coverage had been cancelled, because her initial premium payment was not received prior to December **, 2013. The complainant then filed a new application with the Exchange to start her policy, effective, March *, 2014, and made the required premium payments. However, the complainant was notified on November, **, 2014, in a letter from Health Republic that her coverage was terminated as of October *, 2014 despite the fact that she had made premium payments through the end of the year. As Health Republic had partially refunded the member on February **, 2015 in the amount of $496.78, the complainant is seeking a refund for her additional payment in the amount of $745.18.Having completed our investigation, Health Republic can advise that the complainant is owed $745.18. The refund was issued on April *, 2015, and outreach has been made to the member to advise her on the status of the refund. Health Republic sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience experienced by the member. However, we trust the foregoing adequately addresses the concerns raised by the complainant. Respectfully, [redacted]

Thank you for your correspondence concerning premium payments remitted for health insurance coverage. Health Republic Insurance of New York (“Health Republic”) hereby responds to the complaint filed...

by the member via the Revdex.com (“Revdex.com”), which the Revdex.com relayed to Health Republic on January **, 2016. Health Republic can confirm that a refund of premium payments totaling $ 1609.04 was issued to the member by check on January **, 2016, to the [redacted] address listed on file. If the member fails to receive the refund check within (15) business days, they are advised to contact [redacted] referencing the captioned Revdex.com case number. Respectfully, Member Solutions Health Republic Insurance of New York

Review: I have enrolled in Health Republic Insurance as a member since 2014. I had an amount of $5000 dollars bill claim from my doctor on November 2015. I have spent a tremendous amount of time to call and talk to them when they are going to pay this claim. Their agents have kept telling the claim has been processed and need two weeks to pay. The health republic insurance has not paid the claim yet until today Feb, ** 2016. I am unemployed. I am not able to pay this amount to my doctor. Can you please tell me what to do to claim $5000 from Health Republic insurance? What is your suggestion that any legal actions can take to force them to pay the claim? Thanks a lot.

Best regards,Desired Settlement: Health Republic Insurance has to pay the claim $5000 to my doctor as soon as possible.

Business

Response:

This is in response to the member complaint filed under ID# [redacted] regarding status of claims for services received in November 2015. Health Republic Insurance of New York ceased operations on November **, 2015. The organization is currently in wind down of its operations with the full cooperation and involvement of its regulators. At this time, claim payment processing is on hold as we coordinate with our regulators during this wind down phase. We expect additional guidance to be made available in the near future regarding payment status of outstanding claims. Sincerely,Health Republic Insurance of New York

Review: For the year 2014, I was insured with health republic insurance through the marketplace and I was eligible for a subsidy according to my income, my yearly deductible was $250. The marketplace made a mistake in their computer system and informed health republic that I am not eligible for any subsidy and my yearly deductible should be $2,500. The issue was resolved with the marketplace at which point they updated their system and also sent the corrected information to health republic. Health republic has failed to updated the information received from marketpkace. The enrollment department has the correct information and they are not sending this information over to the billing department so that they readjust the claims. Currently I am being billed for services with incorrect amount and I have tried to resolve it with the insurance for 6 months with no luck. The medical providers are sending bills with late payments and plan to put me on collection. They are ruining my credit history.Desired Settlement: I want the update on my account and the billing department to readjust the medical claims as soon as possible and for them to pay the providers the correct amount.

Business

Response:

[redacted] Dear Sir/Madam: Thank you for your inquiry in connection with the above referenced complaint ID. Health Republic Insurance of New York (“Health Republic”) hereby responds to complaint ID [redacted], received on June **, 2015 by the Revdex.com (“Revdex.com”). The member enrolled with Health Republic, through the New York State of Health (“Exchange”), effective, January *, 2014. The member states she was eligible to receive an Advanced account to reflect the receipt and Premium Tax Credit (“subsidy”) for plan year 2014. The member requests an update of her allocation of a subsidy during plan year 2014. Since enrollment and enrollment changes are done directly with New York State of Health, we can confirm that the Exchange has knowledge of the member’s subsidy issue and is working diligently to ensure that her account is updated to reflect the receipt of an apportioned subsidy from January *, 2014 through November **, 2014. After we receive the correct transaction file, we will reconcile the member’s account; and reprocess all of her eligible claims. Health Republic apologizes to the member for the inconvenience experienced. Respectfully, [redacted]

Review: Jan 2014: I enrolled in a health insurance plan with Health Republic of New York.

Dec *: I enrolled in a competing Health Insurance plan with another company.

Dec **: I was charged $390.64 by Health Republic, for a new plan beginning Jan 2015, despite having asked them to close the account.

Jan **, 2015: Called and asked for refund for Jan, since I was enrolled with a new insurance company and was being billed twice for the same month (Jan 2015). Health Republic said they would issue a refund. None came.

Feb *: Called and spoke to [redacted] and [redacted]. She gave me a reference number and said the matter would be resolved in 5-7 business days. It was not.

Feb **: 2:30pm Called and spoke to [redacted]. She said despite all my attempts to get a refund and close the account my account was “still active”. I told her that despite multiple calls and spending almost 2 hours on the phone attempting to resolve the issue, I still did not have my refund. She told me she needed to speak to a supervisor and promised to call me back right away. She never called back.

My girlfriend has had the exact same experience as me, above, and she doesn’t have her refund yet either.

Judging by all the complaints on the Revdex.com, and the way attempts to get refunds vanish when they reach supervisors, it appears that Health Republic is improperly billing and holding on to refunds as a matter of POLICY. The company admits that I am owed a refund but refuse to give it back. I’m tired of dealing with these criminals.Desired Settlement: An immediate refund of the $390.64 direct deposited in my bank account (they have my details on file).

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted]. Please note that the company's response during the months prior to my complaint was nonexistent. I am disappointed that the company did not treat this matter as a priority until the Revdex.com was contacted, and one wonders how many people, who may be unaware of the Revdex.com, are waiting for the same refund, and how much of this money the company currently holds. This resolution is satisfactory to me and the matter has been resolved.

Sincerely,

Review: I enrolled in automatic payments with this company in 2014. The automatic payments come from my sons checking account. In December of 2014, this company stated they had a computer glitch so they cancelled our automatic payments without our knowledge. I was not alerted to this issue neither was my son.

Recently I received a huge bill which they are totally unsympathetic for due to their error. They stated that as the customer I should've been aware that they had a computer issue which is totally insane. They asked to make a monthly payment and to try to pay the bill whenever we could.

Last week I received a threatening letter that my health insurance would be canceled if the bill was not paid in full due to a past due bill. The purpose of automatic payments is to provide a peace of mind so that this situation would not occur. This is totally their fault and they have offered any solutions to fix the problem they have created. Also, I simply do not have $1700 to give them in one lump some. Again the auto payments were supposed to avoid such an error.

In conclusion, several options should've been offered to this customer. Instead this poor company wants to cancel my insurance for their admitted error.

I am seeking assistance so I can continue my health insurance for the remainder of the year until I can switch to a better organized and considerate company.

[redacted]Desired Settlement: This business in the very least could offer a credit and/or a payment plan for their admitted error. To place blame on the customer and cancel their insurance is egregious.

Consumer

Response:

At this time, my complaint, ID [redacted] regarding Health Republic Insurance of New York has been resolved.

(By clicking "OK", your complaint will be closed as Resolved.)

Sincerely,[redacted]

Review: I cancelled my health insurance plan with Health Republic through the New York State of Health website. However, through the automatic debit program, I was erroneously charged $428.64 on December [redacted]. I called on December [redacted] to correct this problem and then again on January [redacted], January [redacted], and January [redacted].Desired Settlement: Refund of premium amount that I was wrongly charged.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me and the matter has been resolved.

Sincerely,

Review: I voluntarily chose to cancel my health insurance policy with this company a few monthg ago. I am getting bills that say I owe the past due amount of $307.12. I read all the paperwork I recieved from this company, and it clearly states the following "on time payments- you are billed monthly, one month in advance, for your coverage. if payment is not recieved by the due date your coverage may be suspended (payment of claims is put on hold) or terminated. if the payment was never received, and the above is true, then why was the coverage still being billed? it should have been terminated.Desired Settlement: seeking refund of premium payment for cancelled health insurance policy

Consumer

Response:

At this time, my complaint, ID [redacted] regarding Health Republic Insurance of NY has been resolved.

(By clicking "OK", your complaint will be closed as Resolved.)

Sincerely,

Review: My broker submited and requested a Name change and marital status change because somehow the person that receive the papework change them. I am paying for a medical healthplan and I can 't use it. As of today nothing has been done and I have a condition that requires treatment.Desired Settlement: Make the required changes inmediately.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID[redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me and the matter has been resolved.

Sincerely,

Review: I am not able to contact anyone at Health republic for a refund of an automatic premium that was sent to them. my bank was unable to stop payment on the $500. payment that was sent in error in december 2015. There s no way to speak to an actual person at health republic regarding a refund of my premium.Desired Settlement: Please if you have a way of contacting them to file a complaint to get my refund would be greatly appreciated.

Business

Response:

Thank you for your correspondence concerning premium payments remitted for health insurance coverage. Health Republic Insurance of New York (“Health Republic”) hereby responds to the complaint filed by the member via the Revdex.com (“Revdex.com”), which the Revdex.com relayed to Health Republic on January **, 2016. Health Republic can confirm that a refund of premium payments totaling $500.49 was issued to the member by check on January **, 2016, to the Riverhead address listed on file. If the member fails to receive the refund check within (15) business days, they are advised to contact [redacted] referencing the captioned Revdex.com case number. Respectfully, Member Solutions Health Republic Insurance of New York

Review: Broadly speaking, this company does nothing to process claims unless paying customers reach out repeatedly, and even then it is drawn out well beyond a reasonable amount of time (or the amount of time that they claim to process). I submitted a gym reimbursement claim on January **, 2015 (for a time period of July 2014-Dec 2014). Their gym reimbursement claim form states that "Reimbursement will be processed approximately 45 days after it is received and will be mailed to your address on record." On March **, 2015, I contacted Health Republic to find a status of the gym reimbursement claim - the first response I received was that the claim wasn't received and there was nothing on record. It wasn't until I pushed and insisted that I had sent in a claim that they somehow miraculously discovered my claim. I was then told that the paperwork I originally provided was not readable in the format provided and I needed to re-submit a document, which I did immediately via email. I called again for the same claim to obtain a status around end of April 2015, and the automated system was not working and it was impossible to reach any customer service representative. I then sent an email to any email addresses available to me regarding my claim, and a representative reached out to me around May *, 2015 in response, and asked that I re-submit some of the same paperwork. This particular representative was very responsive and made a note of following up with me weekly until the claim was processed. I was notified that on May **, 2015 my claim was sent to the proper department for processing, and the check was sent out on May **, 2015. On July *, 2015 I called again as the check was never received. I was told that they have to do a checktrack to ensure that the check was not cashed, and this same information was repeated to me on July [redacted], 2015. As of today July **, 2015, I have no status of this supposed checktrack and I have no check for a claim that was originally submitted on January **, 2015, well beyond the approximate 45 days they list in the claim form itself. Additionally, it is time to submit the same claim for the first half of 2015 at this time and I fear I will be spending a ridiculous amount of time going through this same process again times two. I don't believe this concern is unsubstantiated - last year I submitted the same claim and it required that I call three times to follow-up on the claim before it was properly and completely processed. This appears to be a pattern of behavior on their end.

In addition to the gym reimbursement claim, I have an additional medical claim that was submitted via fax on July *, 2015. When I called Health Republic on July [redacted], 2015 regarding my gym reimbursement, I also inquired as to the status of this claim to confirm receipt on their end. I was told that no paperwork had been registered regarding my medical claim, even though it had already been two weeks. Again, I insisted that I faxed the paperwork as instructed with the required information. The representative asked what number I faxed the documents to, and I indicated the fax number that is indicated on the Health Benefit Claim Form, the form that must be attached to any medical claims submitted (this is also the same fax number listed on the gym reimbursement claim form). The representative told me that the fax number I used is not valid, and provided me with a different fax number, which I faxed my medical claim documents to today. This fax number provided is not available on their website anywhere. I attempted to call today and use the automated system to find the status of the claim (in case it was processed from the July * submission), only to experience the automated system wasn't working and instead repeated the automated options over and over again even after making a selection.

In conclusion, this company does not provide access to customer service during the hours indicated, doesn't process claims when payment is due to customers (however, has no problem processing claims submitted my healthcare professionals as I am able to view all of these on my account online and they are current), and appears to use methods that delay and prolong the claims process so that customers have to invest an unreasonable amount of time to ensure that claims are properly processed, perhaps in hopes that customers give up. I pay my monthly bill on time, every month. And the level of service provided in return is not just terrible, it is in bad faith.Desired Settlement: I would like my claims processed immediately.

Business

Response:

[redacted]Dear Sir/Madam:Thank you for your inquiry in connection with the above referenced complaint ID. Health Republic Insurance of New York (“Health Republic”) hereby responds to complaint ID [redacted], received on July **, 2015 by the Revdex.com (“Revdex.com”).In review, the member’s claim was received by Health Republic in January 2015 for dates of service 7/*/2014-12/**/2014. In February and March 2015, the documents were received but could not be printed due to email formatting errors. In April 2015 the member was contacted and informed of this, in which she emailed again. The claim was processed in May 2015, and the member was informed a check has been sent. However the information provided was incorrect. Due to a processing error, the payment processed against the wrong account. In further review, the check issued was put on a stop pay, and the original claim in question dated 7/*/2014-12/**/2014 had denied due to timely filing in error. This claim has been sent for reprocessing. The member has been outreached and informed of this information on 8/*/2015. Health Republic will be in contact with the member upon completion of the claim. The recently submitted medical claim with various service dates, has been received and sent for processing as of 7/**/2015. Health Republic apologizes to the member for the inconvenience experienced.

Review: I was only insured by Health Republic from January - May thank goodness but in the 6 months I was paying a ridiculous premium I had 1 and only 1 claim that was an Emergency situation. I was on vacation and was having [redacted] so I did what anyone would do and what the Health Republic automated attendant tells you to do "If this is an emergency go to the NEAREST hospital". Since I was on vacation of course we were not familiar with the area and proceeded to the nearest hospital. Luckily all turned out well health wise but Health Republic is REFUSING to pay the entire claim because I went to an "Out of Network" hospital. They have left me with an $816.41 balance that I have called them several times about them paying in full but they are refusing because it was "Out of Network" . I have explained to them every time that this was an Emergency situation ([redacted] not a broken arm or finger) and that I was vacationing out of state and that In Network/Out of Network does not apply to an emergency. I paid my premium every month to be covered for situations like this and now they are refusing to pay.Desired Settlement: I would like them to pay the balance of the claim $816.41 to the hospital that they should be paying.

Business

Response:

[redacted]

Dear [redacted]:

Thank you for your correspondence concerning the above captioned member. Health Republic Insurance of New York (“Health Republic”) hereby responds to the complaint ID [redacted], which Revdex.com relayed to Health Republic on October **, 2014.

COMPLAINT SUMMARY

1. According to the complaint, while on vacation the member was admitted to the Emergency Room (“ER”) with [redacted].

2. The member states that the claims for services rendered have since been denied by Health Republic as the provider of service is out-of-network (“OON”).

3. The member has been balanced billed in the amount of $816.41, which Health Republic refuses to pay.

4. Based on the foregoing the member filed the captioned complaint with DFS.

RESPONSE

1. On October **, 2014 Health Republic received the complaint from the Revdex.com.

2. On the foregoing date the complaint was forwarded to the claims department for further investigation. The claims department later confirmed that the claim in question was correctly paid in accordance to the member’s certificate of coverage.

3. As the provider is not participating with Health Republic’s MagnaCare Extra network it is within their purview to balance bill the member. As a consumer oriented and operated plan, Health Republic strives to provide quality service that serves our members best interests. As such Health Republic is committed to working with the provider’s office to learn if any further assistance is available for the member. We believe that this issue has been satisfactorily investigated and addressed.

6.3.3 Payments Relating to Emergency Services Rendered

The amount We pay a Non-Participating Provider for Emergency Services will be the greater of: (1) the amount We have negotiated with Participating Providers for the Emergency Service received (and if more than one amount is negotiated, the median of the amounts); (2) 100% of the Allowed Amount for Services provided by a Non-Participating Provider (i.e., the amount We would pay in the absence of any Cost-Sharing that would otherwise apply for services of Non-Participating Providers); or (3) the amount that would be paid under Medicare. The amounts described above exclude any Copayment or Coinsurance that applies to Emergency Services provided by a Participating Provider.

You are responsible for any Deductible, Coinsurance, or Copayment.

Review: I had automatic payment set up for Health republic for the last few years for my family health insurance. A check ([redacted]) for $1,609.04 was accidentally sent on December [redacted] 2015 and was cashed on December [redacted] 2015.Even though health republic hasn't been in business since November [redacted]. I called them Immediately and was told someone from the billing department would call me back as soon as possible because this was out of their hands. They asked when would be the best time to call and I said "anytime at all, they can call me at midnight if they need to because I really need this money back in my account as soon as possible so that I can pay for my new family insurance." I didn't hear anything for days. I called my broker who said for me to give it another 48 hours. Which I did. Still no call. So I called again on 1/**/16. After being on hold for 45 minutes the first person I talked to said that there was nothing he could do and no one else to speak to and I could try sending an email to the state. So I asked to speak to a supervisor. The supervisor apologized that someone told me I would be called because "[redacted] "

So at this point I have no other phone number to call or address to send an email. I just don't understand how the billing department existed in December long enough to cash my check for insurance that was cancelled in November but now theres no one to contact or email.Desired Settlement: I would like the money returned to my bank account or a check mailed back to me.

Business

Response:

Thank you for your correspondence concerning premium payments remitted for health insurance coverage. Health Republic Insurance of New York (“Health Republic”) hereby responds to the complaint filed by the member via the Revdex.com (“Revdex.com”), which the Revdex.com relayed to Health Republic on January **, 2016. Health Republic can confirm that a refund of premium payments totaling $ 1609.04 was issued to the member by check on January **, 2016, to the [redacted] address listed on file. If the member fails to receive the refund check within (15) business days, they are advised to contact [redacted] referencing the captioned Revdex.com case number. Respectfully, Member Solutions Health Republic Insurance of New York

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

I will wait to see if the check arrives by mail and keep the Revdex.com updated with the situation.

Sincerely,

Review: Health Republic was supposed to still have service in NY till the end of December. At the beginning of November I was informed that they were pulling out at the end of November. I inadvertently paid the December premium scheduled with auto debit at my bank after my service was canceled. I immediately contacted them to inform them of this on December * right after we saw the withdrawal on the bank statement. I was able to speak to a representative and they said they would take my information and pass it to billing.

I have since called every day or so and have been told that they would take my information and someone would return my call. That was over a month ago. I have not received a phone call or my money back.

Each time I have called, it has been more difficult to navigate the answering service and today there was no live phone attendant only voice recordings.

The amount is $319.78 on 12/*/15Desired Settlement: Return my $319.78 immediately

Business

Response:

Thank you for your correspondence concerning premium payments remitted for health insurance coverage. Health Republic Insurance of New York (“Health Republic”) hereby responds to the complaint filed by the member via the Revdex.com (“Revdex.com”), which the Revdex.com relayed to Health Republic on January *, 2016. Health Republic can confirm that a refund of premium payments totaling $319.78 was issued to the member by check on January **, 2016, to the [redacted] address listed on file. If the member fails to receive the refund check within (15) business days, she is advised to contact [redacted] referencing the captioned Revdex.com case number. Respectfully, Member Solutions Health Republic Insurance of New York

Review: On January **, 2015, as part of my well-woman visit, I received a test at [redacted] a branch of [redacted] Hospital. I was assured before and after this by Health Republic representatives that this was routine, and covered by my plan. Certainly not much is covered by my plan, but this was. However, I find myself still receiving bills for this event and still pleading on the phone with Health Republic and the facility billing department. However, I will plead no longer, nor will I pay this $235.00, since that is Health Republic’s responsibility. I am paying $148 a month for an insurance plan with an extremely high deductible. The least my insurance company can do is to meet their few obligations to me. I haven spoke on the phone repeatedly to HR reps on this matter. Health Republic's excuse for not paying is that my provider used the 'wrong code.' I don’t know who was using the right code, nor do I care! I have faithfully paid my monthly deductible to this uncaring, unorganized, and irresponsible company that is Health Republic. Perhaps Health Republic should also pay me for the 30+ hours I have spent trying to resolve this issue!Desired Settlement: I have already paid the co-pay for this event. Now Health Republic must pay the balance for this service that they stated to me was "covered." I will not accept their excuse that someone used the wrong code!

Business

Response:

July **, 2015The Revdex.com VIA WEB: http://newyork.Revdex.com.org/respond[redacted]Re: Member Complaint Revdex.com Complaint ID: [redacted]Dear Sir/Madam:Thank you for your inquiry in connection with the above referenced complaint ID. Health Republic Insurance of New York (“Health Republic”) hereby responds to complaint ID [redacted], received on July *, 2015 by the Revdex.com (“Revdex.com”).On January **, 2015 the member states she received a test in which she was advised by a Health Republic customer service representative, would be covered as routine. Thereafter, the member was informed she had a balance owed from her visit. Per our review, the claim was originally processed in error on 3/**/2015, leaving the member a balance. The claim has since been reprocessed and paid in full on 7/*/2015, with no balance owed by the member. Health Republic apologizes to the member for the inconvenience experienced. Respectfully, Stacey B[redacted] Vice President, Operational Policy ImplementationHealth Republic Insurance of New York

Review: Prior to August, 2014, I received insurance from Health Republic Insurance of New York. I cancelled this insurance in August 2014 and enrolled in a Florida insurance carrier ([redacted], the local chapter of [redacted]) upon moving from New York State to Florida. Nevertheless, I continue to be billed by Health Republic of New York.

I tried to resolve this with Health Republic but could not, although I explained to them that I have proof of my residence in Florida since August 2014 (including Florida driver's license, utility bills, taxes, etc.). In addition, I can provide proof of enrollment in a new insurance carrier ([redacted]) in the state of Florida since September 2014.

Please note that we've had several conversations over the past few months during which we were assured that this problem would be resolved. Unfortunately, not only has it been unresolved but apparently, we have been mistakenly re-enrolled for 2015 coverage.Desired Settlement: My wife and I need to have my balance adjusted to zero dollars owed to Health Republic of New York.

Business

Response:

Dear Sir/Madam: Thank you for your inquiry in connection with the captioned complaint, Health Republic Insurance of New York (“Health Republic”) hereby responds to complaint ID [redacted], received by the Revdex.com (“Revdex.com”) on January **, 2015. Health Republic received a transaction from the New York State of Health (“NYSOH”) enrolling the member for coverage effective, April *, 2014. Health Republic has since coordinated with NYSOH to cancel the member’s policy, effective September **, 2014 as per his request. The billing associated with his account shows a zero balance. On February *, 2015, we contacted the member and advised him of the current status of his account to which he expressed satisfaction with steps taken to resolve the matter. Health Republic apologizes for the inconvenience experienced by the member and we trust this solution satisfactorily addresses the member’s concerns. Sincerely, Health Republic Insurance of New York

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me and the matter has been resolved.

Sincerely,

Review: I signed up for Health Republic Insurance of New York at the end of 2013 for service to begin January *, 2014, in order to comply with the federal health care mandate of the recently enforceable Affordable Care Act. I promptly paid my first bill upon its receipt. I never actually utilized the product that I was paying for, but that is often the case with insurance of all types, and was glad to have insurance should I ever actually need it. I began work at my current job on January **, 2014. I was informed that my new employer would be providing health insurance that met the criteria of the federal health insurance mandate, and that I would be able to cancel my privately purchased insurance without being penalized by taxes for those who don't meet the standards of the federal mandate.

Membership ID: [redacted] I called Health Republic Insurance of New York Member Services at ###-###-#### at some point between January ** and January [redacted] in order to cancel membership effective February *, 2014. The Health Republic representative I spoke to was the rudest customer service representative I've ever had the misfortune of speaking to. She seemed annoyed from the moment she took my call, she frequently interrupted me, and raised her voice twice, despite my own courteousness and desire to not upset her.

Regardless of this terribly unpleasant experience, I was told (in the foulest manner possible) that I must fax Health Republic Insurance of New York Member Services with a signed request to cancel service, alongside a copy of state driver's license, social security card, and my Health Republic Insurance of New York Membership Card. Despite this seeming incredibly excessive, I obliged and faxed over the necessary material on January **, 2014. I did so via the free web-based telefax website [redacted], as I did not have access to a fax machine, and I've used there service for years without issue. I have an e-mail confirmation of the fax being sent, as well as a second confirmation of the fax being successfully received, available at your request.

Despite my wish in the request of termination of services effective February *, 2014, for my cancelation to be confirmed via telephone, e-mail, or business mail, I received no contact from Health Republic Insurance for nearly two (2) months. On Saturday, March **, 2014, I received an envelope from Health Republic. I assumed it was the confirmation I had requested nearly two months prior. I was incorrect, however, as the envelope contained a bill for three (3) months of service: February, March, and April. Needless to say the bill, totaling $1,162.42 ($387.14/month), came as quite a surprise to me. Not only had Health Republic not canceled my insurance per my explicit request on January **, 2014, they had continued to bill me in the interim. Furthermore, I had not been made aware of this via mail, e-mail, or telephone, for this entire time.

Invoice Number: [redacted] I have proof of my attempts to fax the necessary cancelation information to Health Republic, and I'm sure they have records of my attempts to call to cancel back in January. I have received no contact for nearly two months from the company, and I have made no attempt to use their services in any way, shape, or form. Since February *, 2014, I have proof that I have had much better coverage via United Healthcare through my employer, so I would have no need to use their services. I have acted in good faith since Day One and have nothing to show for it but a $1200 bill. I request full retroactive cancelation of any and all membership and services. I request a removal of any all charges from my bill. I request confirmation of all of this in writing.Desired Settlement: I request full retroactive cancelation of any and all membership and services. I request a removal of any all charges from my bill, including but not limited to the $1,161,42 on my current bill. I request confirmation of all of this in writing. I request an explanation as to what exactly happened, as well as an apology for all of the mistakes they have made.

Business

Response:

Good Afternoon,

I am trying to respond to a complaint filed against Health Republic Insurance of NY. I just want it to be known that the member’s coverage was terminated by Health Republic on 3/**.

Thanks,

Review: I attained insurance from Health Republic of NY for 2014. As of December I notified them that I would not be continuing coverage with them and attained [redacted] via the [redacted]. In addition to my request over the phone they ask me to send a fax which I did, requesting to cancel my policy. I have not used their insurance for the entire 2015 plan year and have not made any payments but I continue to receive notice of balance each month. Now the amount is $3000.00. I afraid this will be sent to collections. I don't understand, with any insurance company to ask not to reenroll and don't pay the premium and that's all!! Its simple, but not for Health Republic of NY its like they want to make your life miserable and lose customers. If I knew this before, I would've never attained coverage with them...warning...you will never be able to leave this company once you enroll even if you fax them the request twice!! I have enough things to do in the day than to worry about something else. They don't accept emails either, it has to be a fax. Seriously get with the times. [redacted] is quick and easy, you pay-your covered, you don't-your termed.Desired Settlement: Dis-enroll me as a member and stop billing me. I requested cancellation effective 2015.

Business

Response:

Dear Sir/Madam:Thank you for your inquiry in connection with the above referenced complaint ID. Health Republic Insurance of New York (“Health Republic”) hereby responds to complaint ID [redacted], received on June *, 2015 by the Revdex.com (“Revdex.com”). The member enrolled with Health Republic, effective January *, 2014. The member states, in December 2014 she requested to terminate coverage effective January 2015 and continues to receive premium invoices. The member’s complaint includes reference of Health Republic requesting coverage terminations be submitted via fax and she believes Health Republic needs to consider more progressive ways to terminate coverage. Health Republic immediately terminated the member’s coverage retroactive to January 2015 and reconciled the account balance to zero, upon receipt of this written complaint. Since Health Republic continues to be dedicated to the mission of providing affordable healthcare to all New Yorkers we appreciate the suggestion of considering other methods to terminate coverage. Health Republic apologizes to the member for the inconvenience experienced. Respectfully, [redacted]Health Republic Insurance of New York

Review: So on march **, 2014 this company took money out of my bank account totaling $436.56. I did not authorize or select recurring billing plus my bill for one month should have been $218.45. I wasn't behind on any payments and they should have only taken 218.45 out. it has been 12 days that I have been negative in my bank and with $233.00 in over draft fees. I have talk to several different people and they all have given me different answers. Nobody has been helping me get my money back it been 12 days I have a six year old that need to be feed and I can do anything about this cause I have NO MONEY. I am so frustrated cause it seem that they don't think it is urgent to send my money back to me asap. They say they will call back will a solution but they never did. All it seems that they care about is them self's and not there customers that they have screwed I have bills and I don't know how I'm going to get out of the negative in my bank.Desired Settlement: I would like to see all the money that they have taken out and that's including all over draft fees that I had to pay because of their negligence. totaling $612.00 and I would like to see it done by Monday april [redacted],2014 it has been 12 day and I need an outcome asap.

Business

Response:

Freelancers Health Service Corporation, d/b/a Health Republic Insurance of New York (the “Respondent”) hereby responds to the complaint filed by [redacted], (the “Complainant”) received by the Revdex.com (“Revdex.com”), which Revdex.com relayed to the Respondent on April **, 2014.

COMPLAINT FACTS

1. According to the complaint, Health Republic debited the Complainant’s account on March **, 2014, in the amount of $436.56. The Complainant maintains that he did not authorize automatic deductions from his account;

2. The Complainant has asserted that the amount deducted by Health Republic was excessive, in that, the Complainant’s monthly premium for March is $218.45, and the amount debited from Complainant’s account was twice the amount that ought to have been taken;

3. The Complainant avers that as a direct result of Health Republic’s actions, his account went into overdraft, thereby triggering the interest which accrues when the facility is utilized. The Complainant alleges that as at the date that he registered his complaint, his overdraft fees were $233.00;

4. The Complainant has spoken with several member services representatives to resolve his complaint, all without avail;

5. The Complainant has been assured of a call back by a Supervisor, the Complainant has yet to receive this call; and

6. As a result of the matters raised in paragraphs 1 through 5 hereof, the Complainant filed this complaint with the Revdex.com (“Revdex.com”).

RESPONSE

The following is a timeline with references to supporting documentation describing the matter and the steps Respondent took to ensure satisfactory resolution and communication thereof.

1. On April **, 2014 Respondent received the Complaint from [redacted]).

2. On April **, 2014, Respondent began its internal review and escalated this Complaint with Respondent’s Enrollment Specialist team, which confirmed that member enrolled in the Essential Care Bronze plan, effective January [redacted], 2014, through to termination on March **, 2014;

3. On April **, 2014, Health Republic’s Billing and Enrollment Team confirmed that member was showing a net due amount of $218.45, representing the amount that was wrongfully deducted from the member’s account for April, 2014;

4. Health Republic’s Billing Department also confirmed that on March **, 2014, the Complainant’s account was debited in the amount of $436.56, which was allocated against the Complainant’s invoice for March and April, 2014;

5. Based on the foregoing, Health Republic determined that the Complainant’s account ought not to have been debited for the month of April, 2014, and consequently initiated the refund process. On April **, 2014, the Billing Department confirmed that the Complainant was issued a refund for April in the amount of $218.45;

6. Regarding the overdraft fees: between, April **, 2014 through to April **, 2014, Health Republic made a total of five (5) requests directed to the Complainant, urging him to furnish proof in the form of redacted Bank Statements to support the claim. Health Republic remains ready and willing to consider said claim, upon receipt of required documentation

Review: Due to the requirements of the Affordable Care Act, my current health insurance plan is set to terminate on April [redacted]. In order to maintain continued coverage I enrolled online for a platinum plan from Health Republic Insurance of New York on March [redacted]. They told me an invoice for $494.49 would be generated in 1-2 days. I received no invoice.On March [redacted], a customer service representative told me an invoice was forthcoming, but if I wanted my cards processed sooner, I could pay my premium right away. I paid one months premium by bank draft. The representative told me I would receive confirmation of payment and temporary cards shortly.I received no confirmation of payment and no invoice. Over the next few days I called several times and always got the same responseit would be 1-2 more days. The telephone hold times are as long as 90 minutes; if you ask for a [redacted], they tell you someone will call you back within 24 hours. On March [redacted] I learned that the company erroneously charged $4,904.49 to my bank account. In all of the conversations I had with their staff, no one noticed this error until March [redacted]. It was too late to stop the charge.My bank rejected the amount and I was charged a $35 NSF fee. On March [redacted], despite knowing about this gross error, Health Republic went back into my bank account; this time my bank paid them the inflated amount. The company says they will return my $4904.49, correct the billing error, and reimburse all fees, but I am skeptical as they dont even return phone calls when promised. Since March [redacted], they have not even been able to generate an invoice. Why would anyone believe they will process my refund?I would call their corporate offices, but I cannot locate any contact information. I filed a complaint with the NYS Department of Financial Services, but I have no idea how long it takes for a review.As of March [redacted], they still have my money and have stopped communicating with me. I was working with a [redacted], ###-###-#### xt. [redacted]Desired Settlement: I want the incorrect payment refunded to me immediately, the CORRECT payment applied immediately, an written invoice immediately, and proof of insurance (insurance cards) before April *, 2014.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted].

After additional intervention on my end, my problem has been satisfactorily resolved by the company. Thanks for your assistance.

Sincerely,