We want to share an important update regarding the contract negotiations between Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) and Memorial Hermann.

An agreement was not reached, and as a result, the contracts between BCBSTX and Memorial Hermann expired effective April 1, 2026. Memorial Hermann hospitals and providers are no longer in‑network with BCBSTX medical plans as of that date.

Please know that this outcome was outside of the District’s control. We have actively communicated with both BCBSTX and Memorial Hermann and strongly encouraged a resolution in an effort to minimize disruption to our employees.

Continuity of Care (COC) – Action May Be Required

As we prepare for multiple possible outcomes, it is important that you have access to the BCBSTX Continuity of Care (COC) / Transition of Care Form:

🔗 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas – Continuity of Care Form

Submission Instructions

Medical Care

Fax: 866‑739‑4093
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
PO Box 660044
Dallas, TX 75266‑0044

Behavioral Health

Fax: 877‑361‑7646
Attention: Transitional Care Request
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
PO Box 660044
Dallas, TX 75266‑0044

This form may be necessary if you are currently receiving ongoing medical treatment from a provider who may become out‑of‑network due to the termination. Depending on the situation, BCBSTX may allow you to continue care at the in‑network benefit level for covered services for a limited time.

The form:

• May be completed by you or your physician

• Must be signed by you

• Must be submitted via fax or mail

We strongly encourage timely submission, especially for situations such as:

• Pregnancy

• Ongoing cancer treatment

• Transplant services

• Surgeries already scheduled for early April

• Other ongoing or complex medical care

Please review and submit the form as soon as possible to allow BCBSTX adequate time for review and determination.

Alief ISD Employee Clinic Availability

The Alief ISD Employee Clinic remains available to all employees enrolled in an Alief medical plan. You may continue to see Dr. Momin and Dr. Thomas; however, they will no longer be available for selection as Primary Care Providers (PCPs).

Our Commitment to Support You

We will continue advocating for a resolution and will do all we can to help you navigate this situation. Please do not hesitate to contact Risk Management with any questions or concerns.

Additional Resources

🔗 BCBS Microsite: https://www.bcbstx.com/memorialhermann

🔗 BCBS FAQ: https://www.bcbstx.com/memorialhermann/questions

🔗 Memorial Hermann Microsite: https://memorialhermann.org/about-us/bcbstx-negotiations

PCP Assignment Updates

🔗Find a Provider

• PCP reassignment was completed last week due to Memorial Hermann providers being terminated from the BCBS system.

• If you change your PCP before April 1, the new PCP will be effective April 1.

• If you change your PCP on or after April 1, the new PCP will be effective May 1.

At Alief ISD, we recognize that our staff are our greatest asset. That’s why we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your overall well-being and help you thrive—both in your role and in life beyond the district.

Our offerings include:

• Full-service medical, dental, and vision coverage

• Programs that promote district-wide wellness

• Resources to enhance your physical, emotional, and financial health

We’re committed to providing benefits that empower you to live well and work well.

✅ Access Your Benefits Anytime, Anywhere!

Manage your benefits 24/7 through our secure portal:

Portal: https://unum.benselect.com/alief or call 1-877-203-6349 Monday - Friday | 8am - 5pm, CST
Username: Full Social Security Number (no hyphens)
PIN: Last 4 digits of SSN + last 2 digits of birth year
(Example: SSN 123-45-6789, birth year 1980 → PIN = 678980)

🔒 Keep your login details confidential.

📌 General Information

Who is Eligible?

• Regular, full-time employees

• Coverage begins first day of the month following your hire date

Who are My Eligible Dependents?

• Spouse: Legally married (including common-law and same-sex)

• Children:

  • Biological

  • Stepchildren

  • Legally adopted

  • Children under legal guardianship

Child Age Limit:

• Covered up to age 26, regardless of student or marital status

• Coverage may extend beyond 26 if child is disabled and dependent (documentation required)

Documentation Required:
Marriage certificate, birth certificate, or legal guardianship/adoption papers

🗓 Enrollment Requirements

• Enroll during Open Enrollment (October) or within 31 days of hire or QLE

• Coverage effective January 1 – December 31

🔄 Changing Coverage

• Changes allowed only during Open Enrollment or after a Qualified Life Event (QLE)
  

• Examples of QLE:

• Marriage or divorce

• Birth, adoption, or legal custody of a child

• Death of a dependent or spouse

• Employment status change for you or spouse

• Loss/gain of other coverage (CHIP, Medicaid)

Notify Risk Management within 31 days of QLE.

👶 Newborn Coverage Reminder

• Newborns are NOT automatically covered

• Must enroll within 30 days of birth

• Pay any additional premium within the same period
  Failure to meet these requirements = loss of coverage

💰 Taxes and Your Benefits

• Choose before-tax (Cafeteria Plan) for tax savings on premiums

🏁 Resignation Policy

• Work at least 2 days in the month to keep coverage through end of that month

• If not, coverage ends last day of previous month