Agenda - 09-15-2009 - 6c - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: September 15, 2009 1 Action Agenda Item No. (o - G SUBJECT: Emplo ee Benefits Recommendation and Update DEPARTMENT: Human Resources PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N) No ATTACHMENT(S): 1. Health Plan Participation and Rate History 2. Health Insurance Current and Renewal Costs 3. Health Insurance Option 2 Detail 4. Dental Insurance Table of Allowances with Recommended Changes INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael McGinnis, HR Director, 245-2552 Diane Shepherd, Benefits Manager, 245-2558 ruKF'VSE: To approve the County Manager's 2010 employee benefits recommendations becoming effective January 1, 2010, and to provide the Board with an update on employee benefits. BACKGROUND: The County provides employees with a comprehensive benefits plan including health, dental and life insurance, an employee assistance program, flexible compensation plan and supplemental retirement plans. Annually staff reviews the County employee benefits package and advises the Manager regarding a recommendation to the Board on benefit plans that become effective for the next calendar year. Presentations and discussions have been held throughout the year with the Employee Relations Consortium (ERC) and its Pay and Benefits Committee to solicit their opinions regarding employee benefits. In August 2009, the ERC distributed a benefits survey to employees. Over 32% of permanent employees responded. The results indicated employees want to be rewarded for participating in healthy behaviors, and employees highly value the no cost component of the County health insurance coverage. Employees are willing to engage in healthier activities to minimize the increases in their health insurance costs. Survey responses included the following: • 73% of respondents believe their benefits are similar or better than those offered by other employers. • 85% understand the basics and/or details of their current health benefit options. • 77% rate the overall communication of health benefits as good or excellent. • Over 75% of respondents use the preventive services available through the County Health Plan. • The most important benefit feature of the options provided is low office visit co-pays ($25 or less for primary care and $50 or less for specialists) • The least important of the features listed in the survey is the ability to use out-of-network providers.