Travel benefits are available through the COE Program for members and their care companions*. Your benefits will vary depending on:
- Where you live
- What mode of transportation you choose (driving or flying)
- How many nights you stay in the hotel as a patient of your COE
In general, to qualify for travel benefits, you need to live more than 60 driving miles from Virginia Mason COE.
After your spine evaluation has been scheduled, Premera will partner with you to create a travel itinerary around your appointment at the COE. If you are approved for surgery, Premera will contact you to make travel arrangements. You can always contact the concierge desk at 855-784-4563 (TRS: 711), weekdays, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time.
The program offers the following travel benefits:
- Flights: You must depart from a Washington state airport or Portland International Airport. All flights must be to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
- Ground transportation: Car service between Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and your hotel.
- Mileage: Reimbursement for car travel is based on current IRS medical mileage rates. Standard Mileage Rates
- Parking: Parking expenses at your departing airport and at your chosen COE will be reimbursed.
- Lodging: To be covered by the plan, all lodging must be arranged through Premera.
If the hotel is at capacity, alternate lodging will be arranged through Premera.
The program does not cover the following benefits:
- Mileage under 60 miles from your chosen COE
- Daily meals
- Hotel room upgrade costs
- Hotel cancellation fees, for cancellations within your control
- Sightseeing costs (including mileage or parking)
Questions?
Call our concierge desk at 855-784-4563 (TRS: 711), weekdays, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time.
*A care companion is a family member or friend who will care for you before and after your surgery. The concierge will explain what is required for a person to be designated as care companion.