PREFERRED was recently informed that effective October 31, 2003, One Health Plan of California, Inc. changed its name to Great-West Healthcare of California, Inc. Products and services sold by One Health Plan HMO/HCSC companies, Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance Co. and Alta Health & Life Insurance Company will do business under the brand name Great-West Healthcare. New member ID cards are being issued to new members and renewals. Please keep in mind that during this one year conversion period providers may continue to accept One Health Plan ID cards.

Beginning January 1, 2004, Great-West Healthcare began expanding their membership by contracting directly with several employer groups and benefit administrators to provide services to employees. Great-West Healthcare will provide provider network services, medical management services, claims processing support and stop loss insurance for these contracts, while the benefit administrators will perform all other services. Members will be given a provider directory and the Great-West Healthcare logo will be located on the member ID card and EOB.

PREFERRED is contracted with Great-West Healthcare only in California.