Change in Extended Health Care Plan carrier from Group Medical Services to Great West Life
Questions and Answers
Effective January 1, 2016 the Extended Health Care benefit plans for SGEU, CUPE and Out-of-Scope employees will be moving from Group Medical Services (GMS) to the Great-West Life Assurance Company.
1. Are my benefits changing?
No. There will be no change to the existing level of benefit coverage for employees or their dependents provided by the plan or eligibility rules.
2. When do my health care claims for 2015 have to be submitted to GMS?
All claims incurred prior to January 1, 2016 must be submitted to GMS by January 30, 2016.
3. Will I receive a new health card?
Yes. A Great-West Life benefits card will be mailed to you in mid- to late-December.
4. What should I do if I don’t receive my new health cards?
If you have not received your health card by December 31, 2015, please contact the Employee Service Centre (ESC) via email at or by calling the ESC at 306-798-0000.
5. Do I need to know the policy number for the plan in order to submit claims?
The policy number for your plan will be on your health card and is pre-printed on the claim forms.
6. My home address has changed. How do I update this information?
Address updates can be made using PSC Client or by emailing the Employee Service Centre (ESC) at or calling the ESC at 1-877-852-5808 or 306-798-0000.
7. Do I need to complete new forms or submit any medical information that I’ve previously submitted to process claims?
No forms are required for this change. An employee’s history (e.g., exceptional drug status, maximums for plan coverage, etc.) is being transferred from GMS to GWL.
8. I am travelling out-of-country in January. How do I contact Great-West Life in the event of any health issues while I am away?
The contact information, booklet and claims form will be posted on the ESC Knowledge Centre in late December.
9. Does the change in carrier to Great West Life impact my current dental coverage?
No. The change in carrier for health coverage has no impact on dental coverage. Great-West Life is already the current carrier for dental coverage.
10. Where are health care claims adjudicated?
Health claims will be adjudicated in the Great-West Life Regina Benefit Claims Office.
11. I am on a leave of absence or seasonal layoff and have heard there is going to be a change in carrier for the Extended Health Care Plan. Will I receive any information on this change or new cards?
Yes. A letter is being sent the week of November 30, to all employees on leave of absence or seasonal layoff, who are currently enrolled in the Extended Health Care Plan, with information regarding the change in carrier and new benefit cards.
12. My spouse does not work for Executive government, but has health coverage through Great-West Life. Will my benefits be impacted?
No. There is no impact on your coverage or the way you submit claims.