The Death Benefit for active members only has been increased from $10,000 to $20,000 for death by natural causes, and from $20,000 to $40,000 in the case of accidental death.

Coverage for Chiropractic care has been increased from $1,000 per family per year, to $1,200 per family per year. Members should contact the Fund's Office for a listing of preferred participating providers, in order to save out-of-pocket costs.

As of April 1, 2002, Dental coverage for Level #3 members was increased from $1,500 per family per year, to $2,000 per family per year.

Coverage for Orthodontic care (braces, retainers, etc) has been increased, effective April 1st, from $1,500 per person(member or family member) per lifetime, to $2,500 per person per lifetime.

The trustees approved participation with an additional 300 dentists, bringing the total number of dentists participating in our provider network to more than 700 in New Jersey and several out-of-state locations(New York, Pennsylvania & Florida).

Vision coverage has been improved in several ways. Under the Spectera Vision Plan, the $15 frame handling fee, and the $15 fee for additional contact lenses have both been eliminated. Members are also now able to get 12 pairs of select types of contacts on the Spectera approved list. Also under the Spectera Plan, the wholesale frame allowance has been increased from $40 to $50. The new $50 wholesale allowance means that members can purchase approximately 75% of all frames now being manufactured, with no out-of-pocket expense. If members decide to go outside the preferred Spectera network for their vision care, the Fund has increased its $40/$40/$40 coverage on exams, frames and lenses to $50/$50/$50. THe $150 allowance for exams and contact lenses purchased out of network remains the same.

"These new improvements in the health care benefits offered by the NJ Carpenters Health Fund demonstrates once again that our members are receiving the most comprehensive health care coverage provided by any union within the state's building and construction trades." said Health Funds Administrator George R. Laufenberg.

"It's also a further indication that the trustees are absolutely committed to providing our membership with the highest quality care. We can all help to ensure that the Fund remains financially secure by utilizing health care providers who are part of our Preferred Provider Network."