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Board hears modest 2026 health‑plan copay increases, ER surcharge to curb non‑emergency use
Summary
Benefits staff proposed small member cost‑sharing increases for 2026 to help restore the district’s targeted employer/employee cost split. The board heard planned $5 co‑pay increases on many office visits, a rise in emergency‑room co‑pay from $100 to $175, a $10 diagnostic lab fee and a higher flexible spending account limit.
Charles County Public Schools presented proposed changes to its employee health benefits for calendar year 2026 at the Oct. 14 meeting, asking the board to note staff recommendations approved by the health‑insurance committee and to authorize next steps in employee communication.
Christina Warner, benefits manager, said the district aims to maintain an employer/employee cost split of roughly 75/25 under negotiated contracts. Based on claims projections from the insurer, Warner said the projected cost of medical claims this plan year was rising. Rather than raise premium rates district wide, the health‑insurance committee recommended a modest increase in several member cost shares:
- A $5 increase to most office co‑pays (all…
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