CalPERS addresses Blue Shield contract expiration and Medicare concerns

The Retiree Town Hall meeting held on June 20, 2025, featured CalPERS Board Member Yvonne Walker addressing key concerns from retirees regarding health insurance and retirement benefits. The meeting provided crucial updates on the status of the Blue Shield supplemental health insurance contract, which is set to expire on July 9, 2025. Walker confirmed that negotiations are ongoing, but if an agreement is not reached, members may need to select alternative plans.

Walker reassured attendees that Medicare members enrolled in PERS Gold and PERS Platinum plans would not be affected by the potential contract termination. However, those in Blue Shield's Medicare Advantage PPO plan will receive notifications about the situation and can continue to seek care from any Medicare-accepting provider. She also outlined the hospitals impacted by the contract, including major UC facilities across California.

In response to questions about retirement adjustments, Walker encouraged retirees to contact CalPERS directly to verify their records regarding cost-of-living adjustments. She addressed concerns about substitute teachers in school districts, clarifying that CalPERS had not prohibited the use of retirees as substitutes but emphasized the need for proper coding under government regulations.

Walker also touched on broader issues, including inquiries about potential divestment from Chinese corporations and the status of retroactive payments for California State retirees. She noted that updates on these matters would be forthcoming and encouraged retirees to stay informed through official channels.

The meeting concluded with Walker urging attendees to advocate for the preservation of Medicare, highlighting the complexities and potential costs involved if significant changes were to occur. The session underscored CalPERS' commitment to keeping members informed and engaged in discussions about their benefits and health care options.