By Vic Cox

Changes to UC employees’ health and welfare benefits for 2005 could be initiated as early as 8 o’clock this morning. To do that, go to <http://atyourservice.ucop.edu> and have your PIN and password handy.

The traditional month of Open Enrollment will end on Nov. 30 at midnight. Between now and then, it is prudent to review the “Open Enrollment for 2005” brochure sent by mail to every employee and, if considering a major change in health plans, check out the Web site for comparison information.

Contrary to earlier information from Human Resources and the UC Office of the President, PacifiCare of California decided against raising employees’ health care premiums in 2005. It will hold members’ premiums at the 2004 level, according to an Oct. 18 announcement from UCOP.

Maintaining PacifiCare’s 2004 rates in 2005 is reflected in the UCOP brochure mailed late last month to employees, said Tricia Hiemstra, benefits manager at UCSB. “This includes the brochures sent to active and retired employees,” she added.

With dental and vision plan premiums being absorbed by UC, and premiums keyed to the same four salary categories introduced in 2003, not much has changed in health care costs. There are tweaks in a number of things, however, including drugs covered by various HMOs and expanded eligibility for some family members.

As for other benefits, the ARAG legal plan is open to new enrollees this month and premiums and benefits are unchanged. Costs will decrease for the supplemental disability and life insurance plans for currently enrolled employees, but no new members will be accepted.

While no employee Benefits Fair will be held during Open Enrollment this year, the UCSB Benefits Office will host educational presentations this month, said Laura Morgan, health care facilitator.

The benefits staff-run meetings will be held at various times on Nov. 5, 17, and 23 in the HR Learning Center (3101 SAASB). Special Definity Health plan meetings are set for Nov. 10 and 18. Go to <hr.ucsb.edu/benefits/openenrollment.php> to see the schedule of events.

Departments seeking Open Enrollment presentations should contact India Morgan (x2186) to coordinate a meeting. For assistance, contact the office at x2489 or x2042.