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District outlines 2026 health‑plan timeline and advises employees about Covenant/Blue Cross negotiations
Summary
Lubbock ISD staff presented 2026 health‑plan bidding updates, premiums projections, wellness program costs and contingency scenarios, and advised employees about a possible Covenant Health–Blue Cross Blue Shield contract disruption that could affect certain members.
Lubbock ISD staff briefed the board on planning for the district’s 2026 employee health plan, including ongoing bids for medical, dental and prescription coverage, a separate clinic bid, proposed premiums, wellness program costs and potential exposures. Staff also provided guidance to employees about an unrelated contract dispute between Covenant Health and Blue Cross Blue Shield that could affect access to some providers if not resolved.
Staff reported claims and loss‑ratio trends through May, noting a claims loss ratio of about 84.1% (staff said a target is under 87%) and described bid activity that produced lower administrative fees after a best‑and‑final round. Wellness credits that reduce premiums were described as roughly $1.2–$1.3 million in aggregate credits to employees. Final recommendations for plan design and premiums will come to the board in August for approval.
On the Covenant/Blue Cross matter, staff cautioned employees that a provider contract between Covenant Health and Blue Cross Blue Shield could lapse on Aug. 1 if the parties do not reach agreement. The district advised employees who have Covenant as their primary care provider to consult care coordination resources and noted a process for temporary coordination for members with ongoing, time‑sensitive care. Procurement and benefits staff said they have communicated via email and would provide additional targeted outreach to affected members.
Staff identified the number of employees with Covenant listed as their primary care provider as 208 and said they are prioritizing targeted communications to that group. Board members asked staff to provide comparative district premium materials at the August meeting and to consider text alerts or other non‑email outreach for employees who may not check district email during summer.
Staff will present final premium and plan recommendations at the board workshop and request approval in August.
