APWU Health Plan FAQ

Medicare coordination requires certain Medicare-eligible Postal Service annuitants to enroll in Medicare Part B in order to maintain their PSHB coverage in retirement. Enrollment in Medicare Part B does not cancel your PSHB coverage or reduce the benefits that are available to you under your federal health insurance plan. The idea is to coordinate your PSHB and Medicare coverage when you become eligible for Medicare.  

Yes, there are a few exceptions to the requirements to enroll in Medicare Part B. As a Postal Service annuitant, these exceptions will also apply to your covered family members. 

Family members may also be eligible for their own exception, even if the annuitant is required to enroll in Medicare Part B. Postal Service annuitants and family members may be responsible for providing proof of eligibility for the applicable exceptions. These exceptions are: 

• Residing outside of the United States and its territories. (You are required to follow the policy and procedures set forth by USPS to be eligible for this exception.)  
• Enrolled in health care benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs. 
• Eligible for health services provided by the Indian Health Service. 

Yes, you may qualify for an exception if you: 

• Demonstrate that you reside outside the United States and its territories  
• Are enrolled in health care benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs  
• Are eligible for health services from the Indian Health Service 

Covered family members may have their own exception, even if you do not, if they can demonstrate meeting any of these exceptions. Individuals will be responsible for providing proof of eligibility for the applicant exception(s) to the designated agency.