The Elmhurst School District 205 Board of Education meeting on September 23, 2025, spotlighted a significant overhaul of the district's medical insurance plan, aimed at enhancing benefits while ensuring financial sustainability. The insurance committee presented a unanimous recommendation for a new "orange model," which includes critical changes to the current offerings.

Key among the proposed modifications is the introduction of a new pharmacy benefit manager, Bridal 1, which will manage pharmacy benefits for PPO and high deductible plan members. This change is expected to streamline services and reduce costs. However, the plan will also see the removal of certain benefits, including weight loss pharmacy coverage and district-funded biometric screenings, to achieve additional savings.

The committee emphasized three core interests guiding their recommendations: providing high-quality benefits, maintaining a sustainable insurance fund balance, and ensuring mutual agreement among stakeholders. The proposed changes will result in an overall premium increase of 8%, effective January 1, 2026, with adjustments to deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums for various plans.

The meeting underscored the collaborative effort of district leaders, school board members, and union representatives in navigating the complexities of healthcare benefits. As the district prepares to implement these changes, the focus remains on balancing quality care for staff with fiscal responsibility.