UPMC opens Health Plan Connect Center in Westmoreland Mall

UPMC customers now can receive health care and insurance information at Westmoreland Mall.

A UPMC Health Plan Connect Center is now open across from Kay Jewelers on the lower level. It’s the first such center in Westmoreland County.

Health plan members can use the center to make monthly payments, learn about coverage options and benefits, ask questions about billing and claims and locate participating providers. Those searching for new health care coverage can learn about plan options and Medicare and enroll children in the Children’s Health Insurance Program.

UPMC has other Health Plan Connect Centers in Monroeville Mall, Ross Park Mall, South Hills Village, the Mall at Robinson and at malls in Erie, Altoona, Wyomissing and Williamsport.

Highmark Health similarly has health insurance stores in the Pittsburgh area, although not in Westmoreland County. These stores offer support for choosing individual, family or group health insurance.

According to an online map, Highmark has stores in Monroeville, North Hills, North Fayette and South Hills.

UPMC and Highmark have been battling for the region’s top health insurance spot. In February, UPMC said it secured 37 percent of the market share and has about 50,000 more seniors and people with disabilities than Highmark enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans.

Highmark recently announced it took in $515 million more in revenue last year than the previous year and has plans for 200 new construction projects.

The UPMC Health Plan Connect Center at Westmoreland Mall is open 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Appointments aren’t required but can be made by calling 412-266-0527 or 1-855-306-8834.