New York, NY (June 3, 2005) - WellChoice HMO of New Jersey has introduced new plan designs that allow members open access to medical specialists, eliminating the need for a referral from their primary care physician. Effective June 1, 2005, these new WellChoice Accesssm HMO plans are available to all group sizes, including small groups from 2 to 50 members and larger groups, with 51 or more members.

In addition, WellChoice HMO of New Jersey is now offering an expanded choice of HMO co-payment options for medical and hospital care, giving employers more flexibility in managing their healthcare costs.

"Having more options and greater flexibility adds to the overall value of the health plans we offer New Jersey businesses," said Christopher Fallon, vice president, sales, for WellChoice HMO of New Jersey. "Customers tell us they want the freedom to choose their doctor. And, we know that businesses want to be able to choose health plans that are right for their employees at prices that fit their budgets. These new options are designed to successfully meet those needs."

WellChoice HMO of New Jersey offers an array of HMO plans with office visit and outpatient hospital service co-payments as low as $5 and as high as $50. Inpatient hospital co-payments vary from $0 to $500 per day or $0 to $2,500 per admission. Employers interested in finding out more about the options offered can contact their insurance broker or the company directly at (888) 476-6986. WellChoice HMO of New Jersey offers a variety of high-quality, customer centered health plans to small and large employer groups located in the 16 counties of central and northern New Jersey. WellChoice HMO of New Jersey is a subsidiary of Empire HealthChoice Assurance, Inc.