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County approves move to Ameritas/Emeritus for dental and vision administration starting Jan. 2025
Summary
Nevada County authorized a three‑year contract to switch dental and vision administration to Ameritas/Emeritus beginning Jan. 1, 2025; staff said coverage amounts for in‑ and out‑of‑network care remain unchanged and Ameritas will increase out‑of‑network payments and recruit local dentists.
The Board approved a three‑year contract on Aug. 20 to transition the county’s dental and vision administration to Ameritas (with Emeritus administering benefits). Human Resources Director Steve Rose said the change does not alter benefit levels for in‑ or out‑of‑network care; Ameritas will pay most out‑of‑network claims directly (reducing participant delays) and will actively recruit local dentists to join the network. Staff estimated administrative savings of about $60,000 per year to the county’s self‑funded accounts and said plan ID cards will be mailed in mid‑December ahead of the Jan. 1, 2025 effective date.
HR staff said the change was briefed to the budget subcommittee and bargaining units; they plan multiple information sessions, in‑person health fairs and ‘lunch and learn’ events for employees and retirees during open enrollment. The board unanimously approved the contract following brief discussion and no public comment.
What’s next: HR will coordinate rollout, mail plan ID cards in December and host enrollment and outreach sessions for employees and retirees.
