Sisters and Brothers,

Please be aware that we, as Bargaining Unit employees in Florida, are not subject to the Spine and Joint Program of Excellence that is required for others by United Healthcare. This was not negotiated in Florida and was actually withdrawn by the Duke Energy Bargaining Committee during the Wages and Benefits negotiations in 2018. 

Should you receive a letter similar to this, or should you be contacted by a nurse or a representative of United Healthcare instructing you to enroll in the program, please advise them politely that you, as an IBEW SCU-8 represented employee, are not subject to this requirement and have the option of choosing your own doctor. If you are unable to resolve this matter on the phone, please contact your Local Union leadership or my office immediately. Thank you.

Fraternally yours,

Phillip