University Health Plan Review Winding Down

The Benefits Committee is evaluating proposed changes to the University’s current health insurance and pharmacy plans in preparation for program modifications for the 2011-2012 benefit plan year, which begins on July 1, 2011. This strategic review is based upon input from employees who responded to the online medical benefits survey, the University Benefits Committee members, mandated government health care reform legislation and guidance from Mercer, a national health and benefits consulting firm. Mercer compared Duquesne’s health plans to programs offered by other employers, both locally and nationally, as well as to programs offered by other Catholic universities.

“While contributions for employees and the University will increase, Duquesne will continue to pay for a substantial portion of our employees’ medical plan premiums. Our comprehensive benefit program will remain competitive and focused on disease management as well as preventive care and wellness,” said Mary Ellen Baney, director of the Office of Human Resource Management.

Suggestions under consideration for the 2011-2012 benefit year include:

  • Maintaining Highmark and UPMC as healthcare providers but changing the number of plan options
  • Maintaining the current rate tiers for employee, employee plus spouse and family
  • Maintaining the existing prescription pharmacy plan with CVS/Caremark
  • Maintaining a waiver option for employees who do not utilize University medical benefits
  • Providing a new financial wellness incentive for covered employees, tied to completion of health assessments and screenings
  • Requiring a working spouse contribution for employees whose spouses are eligible for medical coverage through their own employer but elect Duquesne health insurance coverage instead.

The University Budget Committee is expected to review the possible plan options and forward comments and recommendations to the administration by the end of February.

Once the 2011-2012 health insurance plan is approved, the benefits office will provide a more detailed overview of the changes and available choices.