Co-pays, deductibles, and other areas may be affected. Employees are asking, in addition to their current benefits, for equal access for domestic partners and married spouses, alternative medicine options, a variety of providers, etc. One option being considered is a sliding scale for employees so that lower paid employees pay less for health care. This idea raises a number of other issues, so the idea will be considered cautiously. Reviews of the whole fringe structure will not take place for awhile, and all discussions at this time are very preliminary.
Tuition benefits for dependents.
Carrier said this is a non-issue for now due to increased health care costs. There is general support for the idea in administration. Regents okayed the most recent Academic Appointments document. Implementation is scheduled for July 2001. Units must have an implementation plan by July.