Open Enrollment

As healthcare costs continue to rise nationwide, UofL remains committed to offering competitive, high quality benefits and investing in the well-being of its employees. For 2027, employee medical contributions will increase by 5%, while the university’s contribution will increase by 19%, reflecting the institution’s ongoing commitment to sharing the cost of coverage and maintaining a strong, competitive benefits package for faculty and staff.

Health plans will limit coverage of GLP-1 medications. These medications will remain covered for the treatment of diagnosed medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes but will not be covered when used for weight loss or weight management alone. 

If You Currently Take a GLP-1 for Weight Loss

If you are currently taking a GLP-1 medication for weight loss and do not qualify for continued coverage based on another covered diagnosis, you may still have options be able to obtain the medication; however, it will not be covered as a plan benefit.

Option 1: Continue With Your Current Prescriber and Local Retail Pharmacy

• The prescription may continue to be submitted through the pharmacy claims system, but the member cost will be comparable to manufacturer direct-to-consumer self pay prices. This is only available through the local retail pharmacy.
• The amount paid will not count toward the plan deductible or out-of-pocket maximum because the purchase is outside the covered benefit.
• Members may use available FSA or HSA funds to pay for eligible prescription expenses, subject to applicable account rules.
• Prices may change if manufacturers or pharmacies revise their terms.

Option 2: Use a Self-Pay or Direct-to-Consumer Program

• Members may explore self-pay services available in the open market, including Good Rx or manufacturer direct-to-consumer programs. Availability, eligibility, clinical services, dispensing arrangements, and pricing vary by program.

• Introducing a new dental carrier: Delta Dental of Kentucky will be the university’s new dental carrier in 2027. The Basic and Enhanced plan options will remain the same, but dental premiums will increase for 2027.
• Health Savings Account (HSA): The 2027 IRS contribution limits are $4,500 for employee-only coverage and $9,000 for family coverage. The $1,000 catch-up contribution for individuals age 55 and older remains unchanged.

What Members Should Do

• Members can contact KYRx Pharmacy Coalition at 855-218-5979 or kyrx@uky.edu and speak with a pharmacist. They can confirm your current coverage status and what options can be pursued for 2027.
• Talk with your prescriber before January 1, 2027, to confirm whether your diagnosis may meet the plan’s coverage criteria. If coverage may apply, ask your prescriber to submit the required prior authorization.
• If coverage does not apply, compare the full cash price and service terms before choosing a pharmacy, telehealth provider, or manufacturer program.

The vision plan and rates will remain the same for 2027.

Coverage will remain the same unless you move to a new age band or elect additional coverage. If you are currently enrolled in Additional Term Life Insurance, you may increase your coverage by one level without providing Evidence of Insurability (EOI). If you are not currently enrolled in Additional Term Life Insurance, Evidence of Insurability (EOI) will be required to enroll.

To have FSA coverage in 2027, you must enroll during Open Enrollment, October 12–30, 2026. If you do not enroll in coverage during this time, you will not have coverage in 2027.