Kairos Benefits Director Jennifer Sherman outlines partnership enhancements with Higley Unified School District

In a recent meeting of the Higley Unified School District (HUSD) Governing Board, the spotlight was on the partnership with Kairos, a health benefits provider that has been working with the district since 2022. Jennifer Sherman, the Director of Account Services at Kairos, presented a comprehensive overview of the benefits and services available to HUSD employees, emphasizing the advantages of self-insured health plans over traditional fully insured models.

Sherman highlighted that the self-insured model allows for greater customization of health plans, enabling HUSD to tailor benefits to meet the specific needs of its employees. This flexibility is crucial in managing costs and improving health outcomes. The partnership with Kairos not only provides health insurance but also includes enhanced support services such as a dedicated account manager and a nurse navigator program, which has proven to be a valuable resource for employees navigating their healthcare journeys.

One of the key points discussed was the transparency of costs associated with the self-insured model. HUSD receives detailed monthly financial reports, allowing the district to track spending and identify potential savings. For instance, recent negotiations with pharmacy benefit managers resulted in significant cost reductions for prescription medications, showcasing the financial benefits of the self-insured approach.

The meeting also addressed the rising costs of healthcare, particularly in pharmacy claims, which have increased by 15% over the past year. To combat this trend, Kairos has implemented programs like Aware Health, a virtual physical therapy service aimed at reducing unnecessary surgeries and improving patient outcomes. This initiative has received positive feedback from employees, further enhancing the value of the health benefits offered.

In addition to health insurance, the district is expanding its ancillary benefits, including dental and vision plans, as well as new offerings such as identity theft protection and pet insurance. These enhancements reflect HUSD's commitment to providing comprehensive support for its employees.

As the meeting concluded, board members expressed appreciation for the efforts made to manage costs while still offering robust benefits. The ongoing collaboration between HUSD and Kairos aims to ensure that employees receive the best possible care while maintaining financial sustainability for the district. The discussions underscored the importance of adapting to the evolving landscape of healthcare and the need for innovative solutions to meet the needs of the community.