Stay updated on all things Nova with our latest news and happenings.
February 25, 2025
Nikki R. Honored as Nova's 10th Steward of the Year
Each February, one Nova associate is honored with our prestigious Steward of the Year award. The annual award recognizes an an associate who has gone above and beyond to embody our core values (Act with Passion, Work Together, Be Accountable and Build Trust), while contributing to the success of Nova and our High-Performing Team culture as we deliver self-funded health benefit solutions to employers across the country.
Nikki R., advocate, operations, does all that and more, according to the two separate nominations submitted on her behalf. The nominations reflect Nikki's commitment to communicating, teaching and ensuring members receive the best possible experience.
"Her approachable nature and willingness to support her colleagues have fostered a positive and collaborative work environment," noted one of her nominations. "Nikki’s ability to balance technical tasks with interpersonal interactions has earned her the respect and admiration of her peers, making her a standout leader within our organization."
April 11, 2025
Nova Honored Among Best Companies to Work for in New York for Eight Years Running
Nova has once again been named one of the Best Companies to Work for in New York—marking its eighth consecutive year on this distinguished list.
The statewide awards program honors top workplaces that contribute positively to New York’s economy, workforce, and business community. Winners were recognized at an awards ceremony in Albany on April 11.
At Nova, a strong workplace culture extends beyond day-to-day work. Whether meeting a client deadline or gathering for a Nova Navigators hike, associates are encouraged to connect, collaborate, and have fun.
January 9, 2025
Nova Re-Accredited by URAC for Case Management
Nova is proud to announce it has earned URAC accreditation for Case Management. URAC is the independent leader in promoting health care quality by setting high standards for clinical practice, consumer protections, performance measurement, operations infrastructure, and risk management. By achieving this status, Nova demonstrates commitment to quality care, enhanced processes, patient safety and improved outcomes. Coupled with URAC accreditation in Health Utilization Management, receiving re-accreditation for Case Management reflects Nova’s adherence to rigorous clinical and operational standards, including excellence in care coordination, improved patient engagement, service access and utilization and transitions of care.
Nov 13, 2024
Ever wondered why a quick ER visit or ambulance ride can lead to startling bill? In our latest podcast episode, "The Price of Panic: What You Need to Know about ER Expenses," experts from Nova’s medical management and customer service departments share insights on emergency services costs and proactive ways to protect yourself from unexpected charges.
Nov 6, 2024
If you’ve ever dealt with a serious health situation, then you know the sense of frustration, fear and stress that comes with trying to navigate care, insurance and finances. The latest episode of "Under the Coverage," Nova’s educational podcast, highlights just how impactful a case management nurse can be in this type of scenario.
Oct 30, 2024
The latest episode in Nova's educational podcast series, "Under the Coverage," walks listeners through the world of preventive services—packed with vital screenings and the perks of zero-dollar copays.
Oct 23, 2024
Ever wonder why your medical benefits cost an arm and a leg? The latest episode of Under the Coverage, Nova’s educational podcast, breaks down the reasons behind the high cost of insurance premiums in the United States.
Oct 16, 2024
Have you ever had a health care service reviewed or denied by your insurance with the explanation that it wasn’t “medically necessary”? Nova’s latest Under the Coverage podcast episode dives into what medical necessity really means in the world of health insurance.
Oct 10, 2024
Oct 9, 2024
Whether it’s you or a loved one leaving the hospital, discharge is often a welcome relief—but it can also bring new worries. Absorbing all the instructions and notes you receive before heading home can be overwhelming. While most people know they can call their doctor for follow-up questions, many aren’t aware that their insurance company might also reach out—specifically through a post-discharge call from a nurse. But why?
Oct 2, 2024
Nova’s latest episode of its “Under the Coverage” podcast dives into the often-confusing world of durable medical equipment (DME), prosthetics, and appliances. In “Medical Gear Decoded: DME, Prosthetics and Appliances Explained,” Lorene Barulich and Stefanie Watt from Nova’s medical management team, share expert insights on the differences between these critical categories of medical devices.
Sep 25, 2024
Navigating health insurance can often feel like solving a complex puzzle, but Nova is here to help you crack the code with our latest Under the Coverage podcast episode, which demystifies the world of out-of-network benefits.
Sep 18, 2024
Nova is excited to release the newest episode of our educational podcast, Under the Coverage, which dives into the world of COBRA. Leaving a job often means losing your employer-sponsored health insurance, a daunting prospect for many. However, the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) offers a crucial safety net, allowing individuals to temporarily continue their health coverage during this transitional period.
Sep 11, 2024
This week’s episode of “Under the Coverage” breaks down key insurance terms and how they can help you get the most out of your health plan. In “Jargon Jungle: Medical Insurance Benefit Terms to Know,” hosts and insurance industry veterans Sara Fluskey, Nova’s chief marketing and communications officer, and Jolene Myers, Nova’s manager of marketing, take a whirlwind tour through the surprisingly fascinating world of insurance lingo.
Sep 4, 2024
Wish you understood how to better navigate the health care system? We do too. That’s why Nova is excited to launch the third season of “Under the Coverage,” a podcast featuring people who spend their working days focused on health benefits and health care, to share their insider tips on information they wish every health care consumer knew. The new season premiered this week with its latest episode, “An EOB is Not a Bill,” available on SoundCloud, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Amazon Music and TuneIn or via digital assistants like Alexa, Google and Cortana.
Sep 3, 2024
Jul 10, 2024
Jun 17, 2024
Jun 3, 2024
May 14, 2024
Nova was recently revalidated through the Validation Institute for 2024 in the common chronic condition management category. The validation comes after a thorough data analysis that confirms Nova’s clinical protocols drive measurable improvements in health plan trend.
Apr 19, 2024
Nova was recently named one of the 2024 Best Companies to Work for in New York for the seventh year in a row. Nova ranked 13th among 27 finalists in the medium size company category.
Apr 15, 2024
Apr 5, 2024
Mar 6, 2024
Jan 18, 2024
Nova Healthcare Administrators, Inc. (Nova) is proud to announce it has earned URAC accreditation for Health Utilization Management (HUM). URAC is the independent leader in promoting health care quality by setting high standards for clinical practice, consumer protections, performance measurement, operations infrastructure, and risk management. By achieving this status, Nova demonstrates commitment to quality care, enhanced processes, patient safety and improved outcomes.
Sep 6, 2023
Achieving a work-life balance can be a challenge. Nova’s new Innovations Lifestyle Benefits can help employers expand their company culture and promote employees’ mental and physical well-being. Lifestyle benefits, also referred to as Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA), are provided in addition to a traditional health plan, allowing employees the option to spend funds on eligible products and services to best meet their needs. Employers can choose the products, services, and activities they want to cover.
Aug 23, 2023
Understanding health insurance benefits is stressful and you often find out you’re learning about them at the most vulnerable time – when you or one of your dependents are hurt or sick. This week’s episode of “Under the Coverage” highlights how to get in front of that problem by understanding what’s covered, now.
Aug 16, 2023
Lower levels of literacy, English as a second language, transitioning to the United States from a foreign country – all these factors make it more difficult to understand and use medical benefits. This week’s “Under Coverage” podcast focuses on the unique challenges the U.S. health care system poses for individuals who are new to our country.
Aug 9, 2023
When you picture a nurse, you might envision a hospital or physician’s office. But nurses also work in a clinical capacity for health plan administrators and insurers. One of Nova’s registered nurses, Lorene Barulich, wants the world to know she and her team and other nurses in the industry work hard to walk with members on their journey to better health. In this episode of our “Under the Coverage” podcast, she discusses how nurses help members overall, as well as patients who may face barriers to care, and why she what she does.
Aug 2, 2023
Congratulations, you’re hired! When you get a job offering health benefits it’s important to understand the basics. How much does the health coverage cost? What’s covered under the plan? Which physicians are in-network and what does that mean? Our latest “Under the Coverage” episode dives into what people should know and consider about health benefits when they get a new job offer.
Jul 26, 2023
If there was a course in high school or college to help us understand how medical benefits work and what the terms mean, maybe we’d be better equipped to navigate health care systems. That’s the premise behind Nova’s latest podcast episode, “Medical Benefits 101.”
Jul 19, 2023
When you think of behavioral health and substance use services, you most likely don’t think of calling your health insurance company. Here’s a secret: You can. And you should! This week’s “Under the Coverage” podcast lets listeners in on an important but little-known fact: there is a team of people working at your health insurance company who can help link you to in-network resources if you’re in need of mental health guidance and support.
Jul 12, 2023
The average consumer is not trained to shop for health care. Stephan Casi, a sales executive with on-demand health care navigation platform HealthJoy, shares his personal experience navigating a health care event on the latest episode of “Under the Coverage.”
Jun 28, 2023
High deductible health plans with health savings accounts (HSAs) can feel overwhelming. On one hand, the plan cost is usually less than that of a traditional copay plan but then you remember you may have to lay out a lot of money up front before your plan’s copays kick in. During this episode of “Under the Coverage,” we discuss health expenses and how to build funds in your HSA over time.
Jun 21, 2023
You head to the doctor for a routine appointment. A claim is born! But what happens between the time of your medical service and when you receive a bill or explanation of benefits (EOB)? This week’s episode of “Under the Coverage,” discusses a medical claim’s journey in the health care delivery system.
Jun 14, 2023
We know health care is a significant expense for most people – one that only seems to continue to rise. If you want lower out-of-pocket costs for health care, getting familiar with your health plan’s benefit summary and ID card can help. During this week’s “Under the Coverage” podcast, Nova client account manager Alicia Campos discusses the value of these materials and walks through three common medical network-related situations.
Jun 7, 2023
Imagine having the ability to evaluate medical providers and services based on quality, cost, and location. Nova’s latest podcast discusses how price transparency tools work and how they will benefit us as consumers of health care.
May 31, 2023
Do you know what medical network you use through your health plan and how to find an in-network provider? Do you have more than one network you can use? In this week’s episode of “Under the Coverage,” Nova’s chief sales officer, Todd Martin, joins the podcast to share how you can answer some common questions about your health plan network just by looking at your medical ID card.
May 24, 2023
Wish you understood how to better navigate the health care system? We do too. That’s why Nova Healthcare Administrators (Nova) launched “Under the Coverage,” a podcast featuring people who spend their working days focused on health benefits and health care, to share their insider tips on information they wish every health care consumer knew. Back for its second season, two new episodes of the podcast dropped this week.
May 11, 2023
Apr 20, 2023
Nova Healthcare Administrators was recently named one of the 2023 Best Companies to Work for in New York. Recognized for the sixth year in a row, Nova ranked 12th out of 28 finalists in the medium size company category.
Apr 11, 2023
Mar 21, 2023
Nova Healthcare Administrators is excited to be named a finalist in the "Best Companies to Work for in New York program for the sixth straight year.
Nov 1, 2022
Sep 30, 2022
Sep 29, 2022
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) may be considered a “sleeper benefit” – in a world where the price of everything seems to be increasing before our eyes, a medical FSA can save you money on items you’re buying anyway. Michael Heimdal of FSA Store, an online resource and marketplace for FSA-eligible products, joins the latest episode of Nova’s “Under the Coverage” podcast to help listeners understand what’s eligible so they can take advantage of the savings with as little frustration as possible.
Sep 8, 2022
Most health plan members are accustomed to understanding which providers are in-network and out-of-network based on a logo on their medical insurance ID card. But the marketplace is changing, with some plans offering alternatives to traditional provider networks. It’s important to understand which providers are covered with your plan to get the most from your health care benefits. But perhaps even more vital is the access and relationship you have with your provider – particularly your PCP.
Jul 28, 2022
Have you ever had coverage for a medication, benefit or medical visit denied by your health plan? While this is frustrating, learn more about what actions you may be able to take on Nova’s latest podcast episode, “I Don’t Want a New Drug.”
Jul 21, 2022
Do you pay a deductible, copays or coinsurance under your health plan? Not quite sure what each of those terms means? You’re not alone. Nova’s latest podcast episode, “Deductible, Copay, Coinsurance and Out-of-Pocket Maximums – 50 Shades of Health Insurance Grey” helps dissect the health plan math involved with your medical expenses.
Jul 14, 2022
Nova’s director of marketing and communications, Sara Fluskey, joins a panel of experts to discuss challenges and opportunities in delivering marketing performance in “Fireside Chat: Disruption, Digital & Dollars, How Much Drama Can We Survive?” This recent webinar was led by Goose Digital, a strategic marketing support services agency, and WilsonHCG, a provider of human resource services.
Jun 9, 2022
Like so many others, our colleague Kim wasn’t excited to get bloodwork or visit a primary care doctor (PCP) annually because needles (ugh) and she’s generally healthy. But one of her biggest lessons from working in health care for more than 20 years has been the importance of staying up-to-date with preventive care services, which she discusses in this week’s episode, “You See Your PCP? Yeah, You Know Me!”
May 26, 2022
Precertification and prior authorization. What is it? When is it needed? Who is responsible for obtaining it? This week’s podcast, “These Boots Are Made for Walking… and they May Have Required Precertification,” answers some of these confusing questions.
May 12, 2022
Pro: Your employer provides a benefit plan that offers a reimbursement account and you want to participate. Con: Sometimes the rules on using health reimbursement plans can make the benefit feel less beneficial and more problematic. Who needs that?
May 5, 2022
There is so much to unpack when it comes to deciding if health reimbursement benefits are right for you – and which option to choose.
Apr 28, 2022
Life gets real when you welcome a bundle of joy to your world. Part of this new reality also includes assessing health plan coverage and benefits. This week’s podcast, “Babies and Benefit Plans,” covers what happens to your benefits when you’re planning for a new addition to the family.
Apr 21, 2022
Managing a new health diagnosis involves a steep learning curve, as anyone who has been through this knows. In our latest episode, “Navigating the Perfect Storm,” we’ll discuss this topic and offer guidance for those managing a new health issue or chronic condition.
Apr 14, 2022
Requesting your medical records, copies of scans, and test results should be a common occurrence. Armed with this information you can save yourself from unnecessary duplication of services and improve the quality of your medical care, explains this week’s “Under the Coverage” guest Dr. Adnaan Sheriff of Amherst Medical Group in Buffalo, NY.
Apr 14, 2022
Apr 7, 2022
Our latest podcast, “Feelin’ 23,” covers this question, which was submitted by one of our dedicated listeners. Guest Carey Krieger, who leads the self-funded account management team at Nova’s parent company, Independent Health, joins “Under the Coverage” once again to help listeners figure out if and when younger adults should change benefit plans.
Apr 1, 2022
Mar 31, 2022
Having conversations around end-of-life planning is not easy and the paperwork that accompanies them doesn’t make it any easier. In this week’s episode, “The Dirt on Health Care Proxy and End of Life Conversations,” our guest shares her unique perspective on the importance of preparing for end-of-life – regardless of your age and state of health.
Mar 24, 2022
When at the doctor’s office, it can feel like a lot of information is thrown at you in a short time. You may have questions but hesitate to ask for various reasons. But asking questions can save you some money, as Al Lewis, CEO and co-founder of Quizzify, shares on Nova’s latest podcast, “Pregnancy and ER Bills.”
Mar 17, 2022
Have you ever considered Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) as an alternative to crowns or fillings? There may be a silver lining to this dental treatment. Listen to learn why from Al Lewis, CEO of Quizzify, who joins Nova’s latest podcast, “There’s More Than One Way to Fill a Tooth.”
Mar 10, 2022
In this week’s episode of “Under the Coverage,” Nova’s director of health plan performance management, also a former practicing nurse, discusses the many experts available at your insurance company to help guide you through your health care journey. This includes registered nurse case managers. These case managers not only have a clinical background, but by the nature of their role have access to claims and medical quality data that can be immensely valuable in counseling members.
Mar 9, 2022
The NextGen Benefits Network has awarded the prestigious NextGen Benefits Solution Provider Certification to Nova Healthcare Administrators (Nova). NextGen Certification recognizes adherence to a stringent set of principles and validated performance results.
Mar 3, 2022
Feb 24, 2022
“No news is not always good news. You have to be an advocate of your own health.” This message is emphasized throughout this week’s episode of “Under the Coverage,” aptly titled “No News is Not Always Good News.” The podcast features a nurse from Nova’s medical management team who shares how she advises patients as part of her workday
Feb 17, 2022
Though it may seem daunting, you should read your medical bills like you would any other bill. And if you’re in a high deductible health plan, you should or will become keenly aware of the cost of billed services. Stream Nova’s next podcast episode, “Bonfires & Medical Bills,” in their “Under the Coverage” series for an inside perspective on understanding medical charges.
Feb 10, 2022
Does your employer offer more than one health plan? Overwhelmed and need some direction? Stream Nova’s next podcast episode, “Choosing a Health Plan” for some guidance. Part of their “Under the Coverage” podcast series, this latest episode helps walk listeners through how to analyze their consumption of health care when selecting a plan.
Feb 3, 2022
Wish you understood how to better navigate the health care system? We do too. That’s why Nova Healthcare Administrators (Nova) has launched “Under the Coverage,” a podcast featuring people who spend their working days focused on health benefits and health care, to share their insider tips on information they wish every health care consumer knew.
Jan 27, 2022
Reducing pharmacy drug spend. This is typically an employer’s top priority when trying to control health plan costs. Struggling with how to develop an effective RFP while shopping for the right pharmacy benefits management (PBM) partner? How can you tell which PBMs are legit and who’s all talk?
Jan 19, 2022
Jul 25, 2021
Nova Healthcare Administrators, Inc. (Nova) announced Friday its latest partnership with HealthJoy, the on-demand personalized healthcare navigation platform, to bring HealthJoy TPA+ to current clients and new business prospects.
Jul 6, 2021
Finding a balance between offering a robust wellness program while remaining compliant with federal rules and regulations can be challenging. However, a targeted approach to wellness can spur plan participants to use their preventive care benefits.
May 28, 2021
May 20, 2021
Independent Health aims to fill 32 customer service representative positions and its affiliate company, Nova Healthcare Administrators, is hiring 25 care navigators, including several bilingual care navigators, in its customer service department. Independent Health and Nova are looking to fill these positions by late May or June.
May 5, 2021
Finding a balance between offering a robust wellness program while remaining compliant with federal rules and regulations can be challenging. However, a targeted approach to wellness can spur plan participants to use their preventive care benefits.
May 3, 2021
Nova Healthcare Administrators, Inc. (Nova) Nova's clinical protocols drive measurable improvements that help to mitigate year-after-year trend. Following a thorough data analysis, Nova was revalidated through the Validation Institute for 2021 in the TPA category.
Read the latest news coverage featuring Nova and our associates.
February 28, 2025 - Nova's chief sales officer discusses ways benefits can be strategically managed to reduce costs without compromising care.
December 1, 2024 - Nova's directory, service delivery and engagement, shares his insights on these consumer-directed accounts.
September 20, 2024 - Our chief marketing and communications officer shares strategies to help clients and their employees understand insurance terminology and maximize benefits.
June 11, 2024 - Leaders from our client services and customer service teams share how they connect with clients and members on a personal level to deliver an exceptional experience.
March 14, 2024 - Nova's chief sales officer gives his insights on level-funded health plans as a cost-savings solution for small to mid-sized businesses.
March 1, 2024 - Nova's VP strategic partnerships discusses supporting female health needs through benefits.
January, 29, 2024 - Learn how the clinical team at a TPA helps employers make strategic decisions on managing risk, costs and care outcomes.
October 30, 2023 - Nova's VP, strategic partnerships shares her tips for helping employees make informed choices on their health benefits.
May 1, 2023 - A leader from Nova's Medical Management team shares ideas on how plans can include holistic health care for better long-term outcomes.
November 4, 2022 - Nova was recognized in the Education & Communication category for this inaugural award.
November 1, 2022 - Nova's chief clinical officer shares insights on the value of genomic testing.
May 6, 2022 - Nova's Chief Sales Officer shares seven cost containment strategies to meet clients where they are.
March 2022 - Nova's rigorous vendor vetting strategies keep up with the changing health care landscape.
January 14, 2022 - Hear Nova’s Chief Sales Officer answer three questions about Nova in under three minutes.
September 16, 2021 - Nova prides itself on prioritizing associate well-being through flexible work arrangements and virtual wellness initiatives.
July 1, 2021 - The flexibility of choice in self-funding offers a variety of options to positively manage risk, cost and care outcomes.
Nova’s series of podcasts feature associates and external partners who share their insider insights on the health benefits industry. Their stories aim to provide information to help you navigate the complex health care system.
Breann Petro - Manager, Communications
(716) 932-5066 | bpetro@novahealthcare.com
Please contact us using the appropriate link on our Contact Us Page.
