Helpful Resources
Important Contacts
Coverage Provider Phone Website/Email
Medical Assured Benefits Administrators
Pharmacy RxPreferred
Telemedicine Lyric
Medical Concierge Connect Benefit
Health Savings Account WEX
Dental Equitable
Vision Equitable
Life and AD&D Equitable
Disability Equitable
Accident, Hospital Indemnity, and Critical Illness Equitable
Employee Assistance Program Equitable/ ComPsych
Legal Plan LegalShield
800-247-7114 www.abadmin.com
888-666-7271 www.rxpreferred.com
866-223-8831 www.getlyric.com
855-624-SAVE (7283) info@connectbenefit.com
866-451-3399 www.wexinc.com
866-274-9887 www.equitable.com
866-274-9887 www.equitable.com
866-274-9887 www.equitable.com
866-274-9887 www.equitable.com
866-274-9887 www.equitable.com
833-256-5115 www.guidanceresources.com
800-654-7757 www.legalshield.com
401(k) Retirement The Standard 800-858-5420 www.standard.com/retirement Benefits/ Enrollment Higginbotham
866-419-3518 helpline@higginbotham.net
Employee Response Center
Employee benefits can be complicated. The Higginbotham Employee Response Center can assist you with the following:
z Enrollment
z Benefits information
z Claims and billing questions
z Eligibility issues
Call 866-419-3518 to speak with a representative Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT. If you leave a voicemail message after 3:00 p.m. CT, your call will be returned the next business day. You can also email questions or requests to helpline@higginbotham.net
Bilingual representatives are also available.
If you (and/or your dependents) have Medicare or will become eligible for Medicare in the next 12 months, federal law gives you more choices for your prescription drug coverage. Please see page 25 for more details.
We are pleased to offer a full benefits package to help protect your well-being and financial health. Read this guide to learn about the benefits available to you and your eligible dependents starting May 1, 2026.
Each year during Open Enrollment (OE), you may make changes to your benefit plans. The benefit choices you make this year will remain in effect through April 30, 2027. Take time to review these benefit options and select the plans that best meet your needs. After OE, you may only make changes to your benefit elections if you have a Qualifying Life Event (QLE).
Eligibility
You are eligible for benefits if you are a regular, full-time employee working an average of 30 hours per week. Your coverage is effective on the first of the month following 60 days of employment. You may also enroll eligible dependents for benefits coverage. The cost for coverage depends on the number of dependents you enroll and the benefits you choose. When covering dependents, you must select and be on the same plans.
Eligible Dependents
z Your legal spouse
z Children under the age of 26 regardless of student, dependency, or marital status
z Children over the age of 26 who are fully dependent on you for support due to a mental or physical disability and who are indicated as such on your federal tax return
When Should You Sign Up for Medicare?
Turning 65 does not mean you have to retire, despite being Medicareeligible. You may choose to keep working due to financial needs or because you enjoy it.
Regardless of why you choose to work past 65, not enrolling in Medicare during the right enrollment period could cost you in the form of Medicare premium penalties if you miss certain dates. Late enrollment penalties for Medicare Part B and Medicare Part D are permanent and can have a meaningful impact on your finances, so think carefully about what you do and when.
If you are approaching your 65th birthday, it’s important you know your options and implications for when to enroll for Medicare.
Questions to Ask Before Delaying Medicare
z Do you have employer health coverage?
z Does your employer have 20 or more employees?
z Is the coverage considered creditable?
If you answer “yes” to all of the above, you likely qualify for a Medicare Special Enrollment Period and can delay enrolling without penalty. If you are approaching Medicare eligibility and would like to discuss your situation in more detail, contact your Higginbotham representative: Luann Yarberry, Medicare Advisor
z 940-228-0338
z lyarberry@higginbotham.net
Qualifying Life Events
Your benefit elections remain in effect for the entire plan year until the following OE. You may only change coverage during the plan year if you have a QLE such as marriage, divorce, birth or adoption, loss of other coverage, etc. You must notify Human Resources in a timely manner if any of these events occur. Contact Human Resources for a full list of QLEs and the notification time frames required for requested changes.
How to Enroll
To begin the enrollment process, go to www.benefitsinhand.com . First-time users, follow steps 1-4. Returning users, log in and start at step 5.
If this is your first time to log in, click on the New User Registration link. Once you register, you will use your username and password to log in.
Enter your personal information and company identifier of ML2020 and click Next.
Create a username (work email address recommended) and password, then check the I agree to terms and conditions box before you click Finish
If you used an email address as your username, you will receive a validation email to that address. You may now log in to the system.
Click the Start Enrollment button to begin the enrollment process.
or update your personal information and click Save
Employee Response Center
Have questions about your benefits or need help enrolling? Call the Employee Response Center at 866-419-3518. Benefits experts are available to take your call Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT.
Need Plan Information?
Edit dependents or add dependents who need to be covered on your benefits. Once all dependents are listed, click Save &
Follow the steps on the screen for each benefit to make your selection. Please notice there is an option to decline coverage. If you wish to decline, click the Don’t want this benefit? button and select the reason for declining.
Once you have elected or declined all benefits, you will see a summary of your selections. Click the Click to Sign button. Your enrollment will not be complete until you click the Click to Sign button.
Scan this QR code to get all your benefit links and information in one place, which may include videos, employee benefits portal, current benefit guide, medical plan summaries, and more.
Medical Coverage
ML Healthcare contracts with Assured Benefits Administrators (ABA) to manage our medical plans. You have four medical plan options to choose from:
z MEC Plan - PHCS Network
y Before enrolling: The MEC plan is a limited benefit option and does not provide comprehensive medical coverage.
z Base PPO Plan - UHC Choice Plus Network
y A PPO plan with a $7,000 individual or $14,000 family in-network deductible.
z HDHP Plan - UHC Choice Plus Network
y An HDHP plan with a $6,000 individual or $12,000 family in-network deductible.
z Buy-up PPO Plan - UHC Choice Plus Network
y A PPO plan with a $3,500 individual and $7,000 family in-network deductible.
How Your Medical Plan Works
ABA administers your medical plan and processes and pays claims. ABA leases the UnitedHealthcare Choice Plus network for the Base, Buy-up , and HDHP plans, and the PHCS network for the MEC plan only. If your provider participates in the network that applies to your plan, they should be considered in-network. Have your provider verify eligibility and benefits with ABA and submit claims to ABA to ensure claims are processed correctly.
Find an In-Network Provider
Visit www.abadmin.com/find-a-provider
z Base PPO, HDHP, and Buy-up PPO Plans: Select UnitedHealthcare
z MEC plan: Select MultiPlan
Minimal Essential Coverage
The Minimal Essential Coverage (MEC) plan provides coverage for limited basic health care services, primarily preventive care received in-network, such as covered screenings, annual exams, and immunizations. Note that this plan does not function like a traditional major medical plan It does not cover most high-cost medical services, including things like hospital stays, outpatient surgeries, emergency care, or other significant treatments. If you choose this plan, you should know that you may have substantial out-of-pocket costs for medical services beyond basic preventive care.
High Deductible Health Plan
A High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) also allows you to see any provider when you need care, but you will pay less for care when you go to in-network providers. In exchange for a lower per-paycheck cost for medical benefits, you must satisfy a higher plan deductible that applies to almost all health care expenses, including prescription drugs. If you enroll in the HDHP, you may be eligible to open a Health Savings Account (HSA) (see page 13).
Preferred Provider Organization
A Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plan allows you to see any provider when you need care. When you see innetwork providers for care, you will pay less and get the highest level of benefits. You will pay more for care if you use out-of-network providers. When you see in-network providers, your office visits, urgent care visits, and prescription drugs are covered with a copay, and most other in-network services are covered at the deductible and coinsurance level.
Medical Coverage
Medical Plans Comparison
Year
y Individual
Visits
Primary Care Physician
Specialist
Diagnostic X-ray and Lab
Complex Imaging (CT/PET scan, MRI)
Urgent Care
Pharmacy – Retail
y Tier 1
y Tier 2
y Tier 3
Pharmacy – Mail Order
y Tier 1
y Tier 2
y Tier 3
Prescription Drugs – Specialty
$20 copay (3 visits maximum)
$50 copay (3 visits maximum)
$50 copay (3 visits maximum)
$250 copay (1 visit maximum)
$75 copay (3 visits maximum)
Find an In-network Provider
Visit https://www.abadmin. com/find-a-provider and select PHCS network (also called MultiPlan).
$10 copay $50 copay
covered
covered
Note: Benefits are limited to the services listed in this summary. Coverage under the MEC Plan is not the same as a traditional major medical plan.
Important: The MEC Plan provides limited coverage for certain in-network services only through the PHCS network . It does not provide catastrophic coverage and does not cover many high-cost medical services, including emergency room care, inpatient hospitalization, outpatient surgery, and many other major treatments and procedures. If you enroll in this plan, you may be responsible for the full cost of services that are not covered.
Medical Coverage
Medical Plans Comparison
1
Medical Coverage
Medical Plans Comparison
y
1 The amount you pay after the deductible is met.
Prescription Drugs
Carrier: RxPreferred Benefits
Your medical coverage includes prescription benefits for retail, mail order (home delivery), and specialty drugs through RxPreferred Benefits , your Pharmacy Benefit Administrator.
Once FountainRx receives the prescription, they reach out to the member within 24 hours to set up shipping.
Prescription Drug List
Your medical carrier controls prescription drug costs by negotiating discounts on medications. Covered drugs are listed in the Prescription Drug List. If you take maintenance medications, review the list with your doctor to see which ones are covered and available. If your medication is not listed, call the phone number on your member ID card.
Retail
Use any participating retail pharmacy to fill short-term, non-specialty medications. Retail pharmacies often fill or refill 30- to 90-day supplies.
Home Delivery
If you take medication on a daily basis, consider using home delivery. It is a convenient, low-cost option that delivers up to a 90-day supply right to your home. You will need to set up an online pharmacy account and/or download the app to easily manage your prescriptions.
Specialty
If you need a specialty drug to treat a complex or chronic condition, you will be asked to enroll in a specialty drug program. It offers support to ensure the medication works well for you and costs as little as possible. If you do not enroll in the program, the specialty drug may not be covered. Certain exclusions and limitations apply.
We fill your prescription through one of our partners: Postal Prescription Services, FountainRx, AllianceRx, or Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company depending on the medication. FountainRx fills all specialty medications, while AllianceRx Pharmacy is used for medications with supply chain limitations.
Sign Up for Home Delivery
z Visit www.rxpreferred.com
z Call 888-666-7271.
z Email support@rxpreferred.com
Save Money. Buy Generic Drugs!
Generic drugs are a safe and effective option to brand-name drugs – and they cost much less! They have the same active ingredients, strength, and dosage form as brand-name drugs, and they also meet the same rigorous quality and safety standards set by the Food and Drug Administration.
RxPreferred Member Portal
The Member Portal is your goto resource for managing your pharmacy benefit, where you can:
z View your pharmacy claims
z Track PA approvals, including start and expiration dates
z Search for covered medications and in-network pharmacies
z See your Plan and Member ID
z Review copays, coinsurance, deductibles, and out-ofpocket maximums
z Access helpful tools and resources, including:
y The complete formulary (please note this may not reflect plan-level customizations)
y A list of brand-name drugs newly available as generics
y Paper claims form for reimbursement requests
Visit https://mp.rxpreferred.com/ memberportal/login
Assured Benefits Administrators Member Portal
Register for an account on the Assured Benefits Administrators (ABA) member portal or download the app to:
z Access to claim statements/Explanations of Benefits
z Digital ID cards
z View expenses applied to your deductible and out-of-pocket maximums
z Find links to your provider locator websites
z And more.
To create a user account, complete the following steps:
1. Register at https://portal.abadmin.com/logon
2. Click on Register Now to continue the registration process.
3. Fill out the Registration Form .
4. Click Submit
Get the MyABA app to make it even easier and more convenient to access your account. For assistance, call ABA Customer Service at 800-247-7114 Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT.
Contact ABA
z Visit www.abadmin.com
z Call 800-247-7114.
z Email customerservice@ abadmin.com .
Telemedicine
Your medical coverage offers telemedicine services through Lyric. Connect anytime day or night with a board-certified doctor via your mobile device or computer for free or for the same or lower cost than a visit to your regular physician.
When to Use Lyric
While telemedicine does not replace your primary care physician, it is a convenient and cost-effective option when you need care and:
z Have a non-emergency issue and are considering an after-hours health care clinic, urgent care clinic, or emergency room for treatment
z Are on a business trip, vacation, or away from home
z Are unable to see your primary care physician
Use telemedicine services for minor conditions such as:
z Sore throat
z Headache
z Stomachache
z Cold/flu
z Allergies
z Fever
z Urinary tract infections
Do not use telemedicine for serious or life-threatening emergencies.
Registration is Easy
Register with Lyric so you are ready to use this valuable service when and where you need it.
z Online – www.getlyric.com .
z Phone – 866-223-8831
z Download – Lyric Health app
Health Savings Account
An HSA is more than a way to help you and your family cover current medical costs — it is also a tax-exempt tool to supplement your retirement savings and to cover future health costs.
An HSA is a type of personal savings account that is always yours even if you change health plans or jobs. The money in your HSA (including interest and investment earnings) grows tax-free and spends tax-free if used to pay for current or future qualified medical expenses. There is no “use it or lose it” rule — you do not lose your money if you do not spend it in the calendar year — and there are no vesting requirements or forfeiture provisions. The account automatically rolls over year after year. WEX is our HSA administrator.
Maximum Contributions
Your HSA contributions may not exceed the annual maximum amounts established by the Internal Revenue Service. The annual contribution maximums for 2026 are based on the coverage option you elect:
z Individual – $4,400
z Family – $8,750
You decide whether to use the money in your account to pay for qualified expenses or let it grow for future use. If you are age 55 or older, you may make a yearly catch-up contribution of up to $1,000 to your HSA. If you turn 55 at anytime during the plan year, you are eligible to make the catch-up contribution for the entire plan year.
Opening an HSA
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you may open an HSA administered by WEX. You will receive a debit card to manage your HSA account reimbursements. Keep in mind, available funds are limited to the balance in your HSA. To open an account, go to www.wexinc.com or call 866-451-3399 for more information.
HSA Eligibility
You are eligible to open and contribute to an HSA if you are:
z Enrolled in an HSA-eligible HDHP (HDHP Plan)
z Not covered by another plan that is not a qualified HDHP, such as your spouse’s health plan
z Not enrolled in a Health Care Flexible Spending Account
Important HSA Information
z Always ask your health care provider to file claims with your medical provider so network discounts can be applied. You can pay the provider with your HSA debit card based on the balance due after discount.
z You, not your employer, are responsible for maintaining ALL records and receipts for HSA reimbursements in the event of an IRS audit.
z You may open an HSA at the financial institution of your choice, but only accounts opened through WEX are eligible for automatic payroll deduction and company contributions.
Scan this QR code to get more information on opening an HSA.
z Not eligible to be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return
z Not enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, or TRICARE
z Not receiving Veterans Administration benefits
You can also use HSA funds to pay health care expenses for your dependents, even if they are not covered by the HDHP.
Health Care Options
Becoming familiar with your options for medical care can save you time and money.
NON-EMERGENCY CARE
Access to care via phone, online video, or mobile app whether you are home, work, or traveling; medications can be prescribed
VIRTUAL VISITS/ TELEMEDICINE
DOCTOR’S OFFICE
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Generally, the best place for routine preventive care; established relationship; able to treat based on medical history
Office hours vary
Usually lower out-of-pocket cost than urgent care; when you can’t see your doctor; located in stores and pharmacies
• Allergies
• Cough/cold/flu
• Rash
• Stomachache
• Infections
• Sore and strep throat
• Vaccinations
• Minor injuries/sprains/ strains
RETAIL CLINIC
Hours vary based on store hours
When you need immediate attention; walk-in basis is usually accepted
URGENT CARE
EMERGENCY CARE
Generally includes evening, weekend, and holiday hours
• Common infections
• Minor injuries
• Pregnancy tests
• Vaccinations
• Sprains and strains
• Minor broken bones
• Small cuts that may require stitches
• Minor burns and infections
HOSPITAL ER
FREESTANDING ER
Life-threatening or critical conditions; trauma treatment; multiple bills for doctor and facility
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Services do not include trauma care; can look similar to an urgent care center, but medical bills may be 10 times higher
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe bleeding
• Blurred or sudden loss of vision
• Major broken bones
• Most major injuries except trauma
• Severe pain
15-20 minutes
Minimal
Note: Examples of symptoms are not inclusive of all health issues. Wait times described are only estimates. This information is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions, please call the phone number on the back of your medical ID card.
Connect Benefit
Connect Benefit is your medical concierge service and your main contact for help finding the lowest-cost option for your health care needs. Call Connect Benefit for assistance locating the most cost-effective providers and facilities for care. In many instances, you may have the opportunity to pay $0 out of pocket for the services you receive.
Personal health care advocates are available to answer your questions and help guide you to the most cost-effective option for your care. They can assist with most health care issues so you and your family get the right care at the right time. You always have a choice of providers, but using a Connect Benefit preferred provider and/or facility may give you access to the greatest savings, including opportunities for $0 out of pocket care.
Concierge Services
z Get one-on-one help finding the right providers from the start
z Make informed decisions with expert guidance
z Simplified care coordination
z Shorter wait times and faster appointments
z Helps you find the best care at the lowest cost
Direct Contracts
z Direct contracts with reputable physicians and facilities
z No surprise billing – $0 for you and your covered dependents
z Get seen sooner with direct referrals to providers
Let Connect Benefit Find Care
Step 1. Ask your doctor if you require testing or a specialist for your care for any of the following:
Step 2 . Call the Connect Team and request a medical voucher.
Step 3. Make an appointment when a Connect Benefit provider calls you. If approved, your claims will be paid in full – you will not receive a bill or pay anything.
If you choose not to use the Connect Benefit provider or facility, you can use the provider or facility of your choice and pay the copay per your plan. See the medical summary for details.
Dental Coverage
Our dental plans help you maintain good oral health through affordable options for preventive care, including regular checkups and other dental work. Coverage is provided through Equitable
Two levels of benefits are available with the DPPO plans: in-network and outof-network. You may see any dental provider for care, but you will pay less and get the highest level of benefits with in-network providers. You could pay more if you use an out-of-network provider.
Dental Benefits Summary
Preventive Care
Exams, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants, space maintainers
Basic Restorative Care
Fillings, simple extractions, periodontal maintenance
Major Restorative Care
Anesthesia, endodontics, oral surgery, periodontics, dentures, crowns, bridges, implants, inlays, onlays
1See your plan for details about out-of-network coverage.
Vision Coverage
Our vision plan offers quality care to help preserve your health and eyesight. Regular exams can detect certain medical issues such as diabetes and high cholesterol, in addition to vision and eye problems. You may seek care from any vision provider, but the plan will pay the highest level of benefits when you see an in-network provider. Coverage is provided through Equitable through the VSP vision network.
Vision Benefits Summary
Exam
Lenses
y Single vision
y Lined bifocals
y Lined trifocals
y Lenticular
Plan
$25 copay $25 copay $25 copay
$25 copay
Frames $130 allowance2
Contacts
In lieu of frames/lenses
y Fitting and evaluation
y Disposable
y Medically necessary Up to $60
Benefit Frequency
Exams
Lenses or contacts1
Frames
to $70
$130 allowance Covered in full after $25 copay
Once every 12 months
Once every 12 months
Once every 24 months
1 You may choose lenses or contacts once every 12 months.
2 20% discount on any amount over allowance.
Vision ID Card
Employees can verify coverage with their provider using their Social Security number
To download a member vision card, visit EB360 or VSP anytime.
Access your Member Vision Card on the VSP Vision Care’s website by following the instructions:
1. Go to www.equitable.com/employeebenefits and click Sign in
2. Enter the User ID and password you set up during registration.
3. Click Visit Website to the right of the details of your vision policy. The VSP website will open up in a separate tab in your browser.
4. Create an account and log in at www.vsp.com/register
5. Access and print your Member Vision Card.
Life and AD&D Insurance
Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance through Equitable are important to financial security. With Life insurance, you or your beneficiary(ies) can use the coverage to pay off debts such as credit cards, loans, and bills. AD&D coverage provides specific benefits if an accident causes dismemberment (e.g., the loss of a hand, foot, or eye). If death occurs from an accident, 100% of the AD&D benefit would be paid to you or your beneficiary(ies). Life and AD&D coverage amounts reduce by 35% at age 65, and 50% at age 70.
Basic Life and AD&D
Basic Life and AD&D insurance are provided at NO COST to you by ML Healthcare. Your benefit amount can be found in BenefitsInHand.
Voluntary Life and AD&D
You may purchase Voluntary Life and AD&D insurance for you and your eligible dependents. If you do not elect Voluntary Life and AD&D insurance when first eligible or if you want to increase your benefit amount at a later date, you may need to show proof of good health. You must elect coverage for yourself before you may elect coverage for your spouse and children. Voluntary Life benefits reduce by 50% at age 75.
Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
Designating a Beneficiary
A beneficiary is the person or entity you elect to receive the death benefits of your Life and AD&D insurance policies. You can name more than one beneficiary, and you can change beneficiaries at anytime. If you name more than one beneficiary, you must identify how much each beneficiary will receive (e.g., 50% or 25%).
Portability
If you leave the company, you may be able to take your Voluntary Life insurance with you.
Employee
Spouse
Child(ren)
y Increments of $10,000 up to a maximum of $500,000, not to exceed five times your annual salary
y Guaranteed Issue: $100,000
y Increments of $5,000 up to a maximum of $250,000, not to exceed 100% of the employee election
y Guaranteed Issue: $25,000
y Birth to 14 days: $500
y 15 days to 26 years: $1,000 increments up to a maximum of $10,000
y Guaranteed Issue: $10,000
Disability Insurance
Disability insurance provides partial income protection if you are unable to work due to a covered accident or illness. We offer Short Term Disability (STD) and Long Term Disability (LTD) insurance for you to purchase through Equitable.
Voluntary Short Term Disability
STD coverage pays a percentage of your weekly salary if you are temporarily disabled and unable to work due to an illness, non-work-related injury, or pregnancy. STD benefits are not payable if the disability is due to a job-related injury or illness. If a medical condition is job related, it is considered Workers’ Compensation, not STD.
Voluntary Short Term Disability
1 Benefits may not be paid for any condition treated within 12 months prior to your effective date until you have been covered under this plan for 12 months.
Voluntary Long Term Disability
LTD insurance pays a percentage of your monthly salary for a covered disability or injury that prevents you from working for more than 180 days. Benefits begin at the end of an elimination period and continue while you are disabled up to Social Security Normal Retirement Age (SSNRA).
Voluntary Long Term Disability
1 Benefits may not be paid for any condition treated within three months prior to your effective date until you have been covered under this plan for 12 months.
File a claim with Equitable:
Call (preferred): 866-274-9887. Select the prompt for employees then select the prompt for disability, or the form can be located in BenefitsInHand
Fax: 855-864-0530
Mail: Group Claims Dept . P.O. Box 14294
Lexington, KY 40512-4294
Supplemental Insurance
ML Healthcare offers you and your eligible family members the opportunity to enroll in additional coverage that complements our traditional health care programs. Health insurance covers medical bills, but if you have an emergency, you may face unexpected out-of-pocket costs, such as deductibles, coinsurance, travel expenses, and non-medical expenses. The plans are offered through Equitable and are portable. If you leave your employment at ML Healthcare, you can take these policies with you.
Accident Insurance
Accident insurance pays a fixed benefit directly to you in the event of an off-the-job accident, regardless of any other coverage you may have. Benefits are paid according to a fixed schedule for accident-related expenses including hospitalizations, fractures, dislocations, emergency room visits, major diagnostic exams, and physical therapy. Please refer to the SBC for benefit details.
Accident Insurance
Accidental
y
y
Ambulance (Ground/Air)
Hospital Admission
Hospital Confinement
ICU Admission
ICU Confinement
Specific Injuries
Dislocations, burns, fractures, lacerations, concussions, etc.
Dental Care
Wellness Screening Benefit
One per covered person per calendar year
$200/$1,500
$1,200 (once per year)
$250 (up to 365 days per covered accident)
$2,000 (once per year)
$500 (up to 15 days)
$100 - $25,000
$200 - $400
$50
Hospital Indemnity Insurance
Hospital Indemnity insurance provides financial assistance to enhance your current medical coverage. It helps you avoid using savings or borrowing money to pay out-of-pocket costs that health insurance does not cover.
Hospital Indemnity insurance can help with expenses related to meals and transportation for family members, childcare, or time away from work due to a medical issue that requires hospitalization.
Hospital Indemnity Insurance
Hospital Admission
Hospital Confinement
ICU Admission
ICU Confinement
Newborn Confinement
Daily Rehabilitation Unit Confinement
Wellness Screening Benefit
$1,000 (once per calendar year)
$200 per day (up to 31 days per year)
$2,000 (once per year)
$400 per day (up to 10 days per year)
$50 per day (up to 3 days)
$50 per day (up to 60 days per year)
One per covered person per calendar year $50
Supplemental Insurance
Critical Illness Insurance
Critical Illness insurance helps pay the cost of non-medical expenses related to a covered critical illness or cancer. The plan provides you a lump-sum benefit payment upon first and second diagnosis of any covered critical illness or cancer to help cover expenses such as lost income, out-of-town treatments, special diets, daily living, and household upkeep costs.
Critical Illness Insurance
y Increments of $5,000 up to a maximum of $30,000
Employee
Spouse
y Guaranteed Issue $30,000
y Increments of $5,000 up to a maximum of $30,000, not to exceed 100% of employee amount
y Guaranteed Issue $30,000
Child y 25% of employee’s elected amount
First Occurrence Benefit
Full Coverage
Invasive cancer, heart attack, stroke, end-stage renal failure, paralysis, benign brain tumor, coma, loss of sight/hearing/ speech, advanced Alzheimer’s disease, advanced multiple sclerosis, advanced Parkinson’s disease, advanced ALS, etc.
Partial Coverage
Coronary artery bypass, non-invasive cancer, hospitalized with infectious disease
Child Covered Benefits
Cerebral palsy, cleft lip or palate, cystic fibrosis, Down syndrome, spina bifida, sickle cell disease, type 1 diabetes mellitus, muscular dystrophy, complex congenital heart disease, autism, pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections (PANDAS)
Pre-existing Condition Limitation
Wellness Screening Benefit
One per covered person per calendar year
1 Benefits may not be paid for any condition treated within three months prior to your effective date until you have been covered under this plan for 12 months.
See BenefitsInHand for rates.
Equitable Value Adds
Equitable provides the following programs and services at no cost to you.
Employee Assistance Program
The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a confidential program to help you find solutions for personal and workplace issues. Benefits for you and your eligible dependents include unlimited telephone access to EAP professionals and up to three face-to-face sessions with a counselor. Professionals are available 24/7 to help with the following:
z Stress and depression
z Financial issues
z Family and relationship issues
z Addiction
z Grief issues
z Parenting and eldercare
z Legal services
z Financial services
z Other personal concerns
Visit www.guidanceresources.com (Web ID: EQUITABLE )
Call 833-256-5115.
Download the GuidanceNow app.
Worldwide Travel Assistance
AXA Assistance USA provides travel assistance for you and your dependents if you are traveling on any single trip more than 100 miles from home. Contact a representative to get trip planning assistance; translation, interpreter, or legal services; lost baggage assistance; emergency funds; document replacement; medical emergency help; and more. Services are available for business and personal travel.
For inquiries within the USA, call 855-327-1476
From outside the USA, call 312-356-5980.
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401(k) Retirement Plan
A 401(k) plan can be a powerful tool to help you be financially secure in retirement. Our 401(k) plan through The Standard can help you reach your investment goals.
How the Retirement Plan Works
If you are 21 or older and have completed two months of service, you are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan on the first day of the following month. Once you have completed 12 months of service, you are eligible to receive matching contributions from ML Healthcare the first day of the following month. We will make matching contributions in the amount up to 10%, not to exceed 5%, of your eligible compensation. To receive a matching contribution, you must contribute to the plan.
If you want to manage your retirement savings plan yourself, you must call 800-858-5420 and opt out of The Standard’s advisory service managed account. Information on each plan’s investment performance is available at www.standard.com/retirement in the Investment Options section.
Vesting
You are always 100% vested in your own contributions. You become 100% vested in matching profit sharing contributions after three years of service.
Questions?
For questions or assistance managing your retirement savings account, visit www.standard.com/retirement or call 800-858-5420 to speak to a representative.
Employee Contributions
Legal Notices
Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998
In October 1998, Congress enacted the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998. This notice explains some important provisions of the Act. Please review this information carefully.
As specified in the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act, a plan participant or beneficiary who elects breast reconstruction in connection with a mastectomy is also entitled to the following benefits:
z All stages of reconstruction of the breast on which the mastectomy was performed;
z Surgery and reconstruction of the other breast to produce a symmetrical appearance; and
z Prostheses and treatment of physical complications of the mastectomy, including lymphedema.
Health plans must determine the manner of coverage in consultation with the attending physician and the patient. Coverage for breast reconstruction and related services may be subject to deductibles and coinsurance amounts that are consistent with those that apply to other benefits under the plan.
Special Enrollment Rights
This notice is being provided to ensure that you understand your right to apply for group health insurance coverage. You should read this notice even if you plan to waive coverage at this time.
Loss
of Other Coverage or Becoming Eligible for Medicaid or a state Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
If you are declining coverage for yourself or your dependents because of other health insurance or group health plan coverage, you may be able to later enroll yourself and your dependents in this plan if you or your dependents lose eligibility for that other coverage (or if the employer stops contributing toward your or your dependents’ other coverage). However, you must enroll within 31 days after your or your dependents’ other coverage ends (or after the employer that sponsors that coverage stops contributing toward the other coverage).
If you or your dependents lose eligibility under a Medicaid plan or CHIP, or if you or your dependents become eligible for a subsidy under Medicaid or CHIP, you may be able to enroll yourself and your dependents in this plan. You must
provide notification within 60 days after you or your dependent is terminated from, or determined to be eligible for, such assistance.
Marriage, Birth or Adoption
If you have a new dependent as a result of a marriage, birth, adoption, or placement for adoption, you may be able to enroll yourself and your dependents. However, you must enroll within 31 days after the marriage, birth, or placement for adoption.
For More Information or Assistance
To request special enrollment or obtain more information, contact:
ML Healthcare Human Resources
4888 Loop Central Dr Suite 450 Houston, TX 77386 210-951-1900
Your Prescription Drug Coverage and Medicare
Please read this notice carefully and keep it where you can find it. This notice has information about your current prescription drug coverage with ML Healthcare and about your options under Medicare’s prescription drug coverage. This information can help you decide whether or not you want to enroll in a Medicare drug plan. Information about where you can get help to make decisions about your prescription drug coverage is at the end of this notice.
If neither you nor any of your covered dependents are eligible for or have Medicare, this notice does not apply to you or the dependents, as the case may be. However, you should still keep a copy of this notice in the event you or a dependent should qualify for coverage under Medicare in the future. Please note, however, that later notices might supersede this notice.
1. Medicare prescription drug coverage became available in 2006 to everyone with Medicare. You can get this coverage through a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers prescription drug coverage. All Medicare prescription drug plans provide at least a standard level of coverage set by Medicare. Some plans may also offer more coverage for a higher monthly premium.
Legal Notices
2. ML Healthcare has determined that the prescription drug coverage offered by the ML Healthcare medical plan is, on average for all plan participants, expected to pay out as much as the standard Medicare prescription drug coverage pays and is considered Creditable Coverage. The HSA plan is not considered Creditable Coverage.
Because your existing coverage is, on average, at least as good as standard Medicare prescription drug coverage, you can keep this coverage and not pay a higher premium (a penalty) if you later decide to enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan, as long as you later enroll within specific time periods.
You can enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan when you first become eligible for Medicare. If you decide to wait to enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan, you may enroll later, during Medicare Part D’s annual enrollment period, which runs each year from October 15 through December 7 but as a general rule, if you delay your enrollment in Medicare Part D after first becoming eligible to enroll, you may have to pay a higher premium (a penalty).
You should compare your current coverage, including which drugs are covered at what cost, with the coverage and cost of the plans offering Medicare prescription drug coverage in your area. See the Plan’s summary plan description for a summary of the Plan’s prescription drug coverage. If you don’t have a copy, you can get one by contacting ML Healthcare at the phone number or address listed at the end of this section.
If you choose to enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan and cancel your current ML Healthcare prescription drug coverage, be aware that you and your dependents may not be able to get this coverage back. To regain coverage, you would have to re-enroll in the Plan, pursuant to the Plan’s eligibility and enrollment rules. You should review the Plan’s summary plan description to determine if and when you are allowed to add coverage.
If you cancel or lose your current coverage and do not have prescription drug coverage for 63 days or longer prior to enrolling in the Medicare prescription drug coverage, your monthly premium will be at least 1% per month greater for every month that you did not have coverage for as long as you have Medicare prescription drug coverage. For example, if nineteen months lapse without coverage, your premium will always be at least 19% higher than it would have been without the lapse in coverage.
For more information about this notice or your current prescription drug coverage:
Contact the Human Resources Department at 210-951-1900
NOTE: You will receive this notice annually and at other times in the future, such as before the next period you can enroll in Medicare prescription drug coverage and if this coverage changes. You may also request a copy.
For more information about your options under Medicare prescription drug coverage:
More detailed information about Medicare plans that offer prescription drug coverage is in the “Medicare & You” handbook. You will get a copy of the handbook in the mail every year from Medicare. You may also be contacted directly by Medicare prescription drug plans. For more information about Medicare prescription drug coverage:
z Visit www.medicare.gov.
z Call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (see the inside back cover of your copy of the “Medicare & You” handbook for their telephone number) for personalized help.
z Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 877-486-2048
If you have limited income and resources, extra help paying for Medicare prescription drug coverage is available. Information about this extra help is available from the Social Security Administration (SSA) online at www.socialsecurity.gov, or you can call them at 800-772-1213. TTY users should call 800-3250778
Remember: Keep this Creditable Coverage notice. If you enroll in one of the new plans approved by Medicare which offer prescription drug coverage, you may be required to provide a copy of this notice when you join to show whether or not you have maintained creditable coverage and whether or not you are required to pay a higher premium (a penalty).
May 1, 2026
ML Healthcare Human Resources
4888 Loop Central Dr Suite 450 Houston, TX 77386 210-951-1900
Legal Notices
Notice of HIPAA Privacy Practices
This notice describes how medical information about you may be used and disclosed and how you can access this information. Please review it carefully.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) imposes numerous requirements on employer health plans concerning the use and disclosure of individual health information. This information known as protected health information (PHI), includes virtually all individually identifiable health information held by a health plan – whether received in writing, in an electronic medium or as oral communication. This notice describes the privacy practices of the Employee Benefits Plan (referred to in this notice as the Plan), sponsored by ML Healthcare , hereinafter referred to as the plan sponsor.
The Plan is required by law to maintain the privacy of your health information and to provide you with this notice of the Plan’s legal duties and privacy practices with respect to your health information. It is important to note that these rules apply to the Plan, not the plan sponsor as an employer.
You have the right to inspect and copy protected health information which is maintained by and for the Plan for enrollment, payment, claims and case management. If you feel that protected health information about you is incorrect or incomplete, you may ask the Human Resources Department to amend the information. For a full copy of the Notice of Privacy Practices describing how protected health information about you may be used and disclosed and how you can get access to the information, contact the Human Resources Department.
Complaints: If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you may complain to the Plan and to the Secretary of Health and Human Services. You will not be retaliated against for filing a complaint. To file a complaint, please contact the Privacy Officer.
ML Healthcare Human Resources
4888 Loop Central Dr Suite 450 Houston, TX 77386 210-951-1900
Conclusion
PHI use and disclosure by the Plan is regulated by a federal law known as HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). You may find these rules at 45 Code of Federal Regulations Parts 160 and 164. The Plan intends
to comply with these regulations. This Notice attempts to summarize the regulations. The regulations will supersede any discrepancy between the information in this Notice and the regulations.
Premium Assistance Under Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
If you or your children are eligible for Medicaid or CHIP and you’re eligible for health coverage from your employer, your state may have a premium assistance program that can help pay for coverage, using funds from their Medicaid or CHIP programs. If you or your children aren’t eligible for Medicaid or CHIP, you won’t be eligible for these premium assistance programs but you may be able to buy individual insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. For more information, visit www. healthcare.gov.
If you or your dependents are already enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP and you live in a State listed below, contact your State Medicaid or CHIP office to find out if premium assistance is available.
If you or your dependents are NOT currently enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP, and you think you or any of your dependents might be eligible for either of these programs, contact your State Medicaid or CHIP office or dial 1-877-KIDS NOW or www. insurekidsnow.gov to find out how to apply. If you qualify, ask your state if it has a program that might help you pay the premiums for an employer-sponsored plan.
If you or your dependents are eligible for premium assistance under Medicaid or CHIP, as well as eligible under your employer plan, your employer must allow you to enroll in your employer plan if you aren’t already enrolled. This is called a “special enrollment” opportunity, and you must request coverage within 60 days of being determined eligible for premium assistance. If you have questions about enrolling in your employer plan, contact the Department of Labor at www.askebsa.dol.gov or call 1-866-444-EBSA (3272)
If you live in one of the following States, you may be eligible for assistance paying your employer health plan premiums. The following list of States is current as of January 31, 2026. Contact your State for more information on eligibility.
Texas – Medicaid
Website: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/financial/healthinsurance-premium-payment-hipp-program
Phone: 1-800-440-0493
Legal Notices
To see if any other States have added a premium assistance program since January 31, 2026, or for more information on special enrollment rights, you can contact either:
U.S. Department of Labor Employee Benefits Security Administration www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa
1-866-444-EBSA (3272)
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services www.cms.hhs.gov
1-877-267-2323, Menu Option 4, Ext. 61565
Continuation of Coverage Rights Under COBRA
Under the Federal Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA), if you are covered under the ML Healthcare group health plan you and your eligible dependents may be entitled to continue your group health benefits coverage under the ML Healthcare plan after you have left employment with the company. If you wish to elect COBRA coverage, contact your Human Resources Department for the applicable deadlines to elect coverage and pay the initial premium.
Plan Contact Information
ML Healthcare Human Resources
4888 Loop Central Dr Suite 450 Houston, TX 77386 210-951-1900
Your Rights and Protections Against Surprise Medical Bills
When you get emergency care or get treated by an out-ofnetwork provider at an in-network hospital or ambulatory surgical center, you are protected from surprise billing or balance billing.
What is “balance billing” (sometimes called “surprise billing”)?
When you see a doctor or other health care provider, you may owe certain out-of-pocket costs, such as a copayment, coinsurance, and/or a deductible. You may have other costs or have to pay the entire bill if you see a provider or visit a health care facility that isn’t in your health plan’s network.
“Out-of-network” describes providers and facilities that have not signed a contract with your health plan. Out-of-network
providers may be permitted to bill you for the difference between what your plan agreed to pay and the full amount charged for a service. This is called “balance billing.” This amount is likely more than in-network costs for the same service and might not count toward your annual out-of-pocket limit.
“Surprise billing” is an unexpected balance bill. This can happen when you can’t control who is involved in your care—like when you have an emergency or when you schedule a visit at an in-network facility but are unexpectedly treated by an out-ofnetwork provider.
You are protected from balance billing for:
z Emergency services – If you have an emergency medical condition and get emergency services from an out-of-network provider or facility, the most the provider or facility may bill you is your plan’s innetwork cost-sharing amount (such as copayments and coinsurance). You cannot be balance billed for these emergency services. This includes services you may get after you are in stable condition, unless you give written consent and give up your protections not to be balanced billed for these post-stabilization services.
z Certain services at an in-network hospital or ambulatory surgical center – When you get services from an in-network hospital or ambulatory surgical center, certain providers there may be out-of-network. In these cases, the most those providers may bill you is your plan’s in-network cost-sharing amount. This applies to emergency medicine, anesthesia, pathology, radiology, laboratory, neonatology, assistant surgeon, hospitalist, or intensivist services. These providers cannot balance bill you and may not ask you to give up your protections not to be balance billed.
If you get other services at these in-network facilities, outof-network providers cannot balance bill you, unless you give written consent and give up your protections.
You are never required to give up your protections from balance billing. You also are not required to get care out-of-network. You can choose a provider or facility in your plan’s network.
Legal Notices
When balance billing is not allowed, you also have the following protections:
z You are only responsible for paying your share of the cost (like the copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles that you would pay if the provider or facility was in-network). Your health plan will pay outof-network providers and facilities directly.
z Your health plan generally must:
• Cover emergency services without requiring you to get approval for services in advance (prior authorization).
• Cover emergency services by out-of-network providers.
• Base what you owe the provider or facility (costsharing) on what it would pay an in-network provider or facility and show that amount in your explanation of benefits.
• Count any amount you pay for emergency services or out-of-network services toward your deductible and out-of-pocket limit.
If you believe you have been wrongly billed, you may contact your insurance provider. Visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises for more information about your rights under federal law.
New Health Insurance Marketplace Coverage Options and Your Health Coverage
PART A: General Information
Even if you are offered health coverage through your employment, you may have other coverage options through the Health Insurance Marketplace (“Marketplace”). To assist you as you evaluate options for you and your family, this notice provides some basic information about the Health Insurance Marketplace.
What is the Health Insurance Marketplace?
The Marketplace is designed to help you find health insurance that meets your needs and fits your budget. The Marketplace offers “one-stop shopping” to find and compare private health insurance options in your geographic area.
Can I Save Money on my Health Insurance Premiums in the Marketplace?
You may qualify to save money and lower your monthly premium and other out-of-pocket costs, but only if your employer does not offer coverage, or offers coverage that is not considered affordable for you and doesn’t meet certain minimum value standards (discussed below). The savings on your premium that you’re eligible for depends on your household income. You may also be eligible for a tax credit that lowers your costs.
Does Employment-Based Health Coverage Affect Eligibility for Premium Savings through the Marketplace?
Yes. If you have an offer of health coverage from your employer that is considered affordable for you and meets certain minimum value standards, you will not be eligible for a tax credit, or advance payment of the tax credit, for your Marketplace coverage and may wish to enroll in your employment-based health plan. However, you may be eligible for a tax credit, and advance payments of the credit that lowers your monthly premium, or a reduction in certain cost-sharing, if your employer does not offer coverage to you at all or does not offer coverage that is considered affordable for you or meet minimum value standards. If your share of the premium cost of all plans offered to you through your employment is more than 9.12%1 of your annual household income, or if the coverage through your employment does not meet the “minimum value” standard set by the Affordable Care Act, you may be eligible for a tax credit, and advance payment of the credit, if you do not enroll in the employment-based health coverage. For family members of the employee, coverage is considered affordable if the employee’s cost of premiums for the lowest-cost plan that would cover all family members does not exceed 9.12% of the employee’s household income.1, 2
Note: If you purchase a health plan through the Marketplace instead of accepting health coverage offered through your employment, then you may lose access to whatever the employer contributes to the employment-based coverage. Also, this employer contribution -as well as your employee contribution to employment-based coverage- is generally excluded from income for federal and state income tax purposes. Your payments for coverage through the Marketplace are made on an after-tax basis. In addition, note that if the health coverage offered through your employment does not meet the affordability or minimum value standards, but you accept that coverage anyway, you
Legal Notices
will not be eligible for a tax credit. You should consider all of these factors in determining whether to purchase a health plan through the Marketplace.
When Can I Enroll in Health Insurance Coverage through the Marketplace?
You can enroll in a Marketplace health insurance plan during the annual Marketplace Open Enrollment Period. Open Enrollment varies by state but generally starts November 1 and continues through at least December 15.
Outside the annual Open Enrollment Period, you can sign up for health insurance if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. In general, you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you’ve had certain qualifying life events, such as getting married, having a baby, adopting a child, or losing eligibility for other health coverage. Depending on your Special Enrollment Period type, you may have 60 days before or 60 days following the qualifying life event to enroll in a Marketplace plan.
There is also a Marketplace Special Enrollment Period for individuals and their families who lose eligibility for Medicaid or Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage on or after March 31, 2023, through July 31, 2024. Since the onset of the nationwide COVID-19 public health emergency, state Medicaid and CHIP agencies generally have not terminated the enrollment of any Medicaid or CHIP beneficiary who was enrolled on or after March 18, 2020, through March 31, 2023. As state Medicaid and CHIP agencies resume regular eligibility and enrollment practices, many individuals may no longer be eligible for Medicaid or CHIP coverage starting as early as March 31, 2023. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is offering a temporary Marketplace Special Enrollment period to allow these individuals to enroll in Marketplace coverage.
Marketplace-eligible individuals who live in states served by HealthCare.gov and either- submit a new application or update an existing application on HealthCare.gov between March 31, 2023 and July 31, 2024, and attest to a termination date of Medicaid or CHIP coverage within the same time period, are eligible for a 60-day Special Enrollment Period. That means that if you lose Medicaid or CHIP coverage between March 31, 2023, and July 31, 2024, you may be able to enroll in Marketplace coverage within 60 days of when you lost Medicaid or CHIP coverage. In addition, if you or your family members are enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP coverage, it is important to make sure that
your contact information is up to date to make sure you get any information about changes to your eligibility. To learn more, visit www.HealthCare.gov or call the Marketplace Call Center at 1-800-318-2596. TTY users can call 1-855-889-4325
What about Alternatives to Marketplace Health Insurance Coverage?
If you or your family are eligible for coverage in an employmentbased health plan (such as an employer-sponsored health plan), you or your family may also be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in that health plan in certain circumstances, including if you or your dependents were enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP coverage and lost that coverage. Generally, you have 60 days after the loss of Medicaid or CHIP coverage to enroll in an employment-based health plan, but if you and your family lost eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP coverage between March 31, 2023 and July 10, 2023, you can request this special enrollment in the employment-based health plan through September 8, 2023. Confirm the deadline with your employer or your employment-based health plan.
Alternatively, you can enroll in Medicaid or CHIP coverage at any time by filling out an application through the Marketplace or applying directly through your state Medicaid agency. Visit https://www.healthcare.gov/medicaid-chip/getting-medicaidchip/ for more details.
How Can I Get More Information?
For more information about your coverage offered through your employment, please check your health plan’s summary plan description or contact Human Resources.
The Marketplace can help you evaluate your coverage options, including your eligibility for coverage through the Marketplace and its cost. Please visit www.HealthCare.gov for more information, including an online application for health insurance coverage and contact information for a Health Insurance Marketplace in your area.
This brochure highlights the main features of the ML Healthcare employee benefits program. It does not include all plan rules, details, limitations, and exclusions. The terms of your benefit plans are governed by legal documents, including insurance contracts. Should there be an inconsistency between this brochure and the legal plan documents, the plan documents are the final authority. ML Healthcare reserves the right to change or discontinue its employee benefits plans anytime.
