rates remaining at 2016 levels , there is a possibility that if your dentist raises rates in 2017 , you may see an increase in out-ofpocket expenses .
ARTA will be reviewing all of the services offered through our dental care plans in 2017 to ensure that we continue to offer the best possible benefits to our covered members .
2 . The motion to empower the ARTA CAO / executive director , ARTA benefits consultants , and legal counsel to enter into a contractual agreement for emergency travel insurance coverage with Allianz Global Assistance means that the ARTA Board has approved a new ARTA partner effective November 1 , 2016 . As of that date , Allianz Global Assistance Canada has begun providing our members with emergency travel assistance services , with the new underwriter of the emergency travel plan being CUMIS General Insurance Company . Allianz is known for their efficient and world-renowned claims service through their emergency travel provider assistance team . This change improves service and enhances benefits , while positioning the benefit plan for better long-term stability .
With so much at stake — your health and wellness and the overall long-term sustainability of our plan for our members — ARTA makes it a priority to ensure that the ARTA Retiree Benefits Plan provides a competitive plan at a competitive cost .
3 . The motion to enter into negotiations to acquire a ten-year leasehold agreement for building space to house our offices , including leasehold improvements , furniture , moving costs , and other added costs required to move our offices into a new space is a big step for ARTA and its members . ARTA has grown to a size where we require more space in order to carry out our business and we also need to look at developing a home that we can call our own . The space we are developing will take care of our short-term as well as long-term operational needs and will provide ARTA the opportunity to show what a formidable association we have become . With the current shape of the economy , we are finding that there are spaces available that can be procured for a reasonable cost , in turn , saving us money . We will update you on the progress of the development of our new space and announce our grand opening soon .
4 . And finally , the motion that the ARTA president and the executive director express our thanks to the ATA for the generosity and support given to ARTA over the past years and that we look forward to a continued positive working relationship is really a motion that puts on record our thanks for the professional , compassionate and dedicated support we have received from the ATA over the years . As ARTA was developing , the ATA gave us encouragement and opportunities that allowed us to flourish into the association we are today . I think of ARTA today like a young adult ready to leave their parents ’ home , ready for a new challenge , thankful of the guidance they have received , and ready to make their own mark in the world . To our parents at the ATA , thank you for your support .
As always , we are proud to serve our members and to continue to provide the best programs , services and opportunities to support engaged lifestyles after retirement through membercentred services , advocacy , communication , wellness and leadership . news & views WINTER 2016 | 9