Significant enhancements to employee benefits now available
New vision care, paramedical benefits among the changes
As of April 1, 2024, University of Manitoba benefits plan members can enjoy expanded benefits coverage, with significant enhancements for both full-time and part-time employees.
These enhancements come thanks to the hard work of the Staff Benefits Committee, who worked tirelessly on behalf of all UM employees to further improve benefits and expand coverage for the UM community and its families.
A full list of changes and details on each plan item can be found on the Benefits enhancements 2024 Intranet page. Some highlights include:
• Mental health: $1,000 annual coverage for full-time staff and $700 for part-time.
• Paramedical: Four paramedical categories each with a $500 FT /$350 PT annual limit.
• Vision: 100% reimbursement for vision, including eye exams and eyewear (limits apply).
• Drug plan: Removal of deductibles and annual limits; added diabetic supplies and insulin.
• Health Care Spending Account: Annual limits increasing by $40.
“We’re thrilled to share these expanded benefits with all plan members at UM,” said Jamie Gerlach, Director, Total Compensation and HR Systems. “These benefits enhancements reflect UM’s commitment to the whole health of all employees, and we hope they provide even more opportunities for our community members to prioritize their well-being.”
Benefits changes are reflected in the full-time, part-time and geographic full-time staff benefits booklets. Information sessions will also be held throughout April if anyone has questions. Keep an eye on your inbox for an invitation.
Employee-paid premiums will slightly increase to cover the costs of these enhancements, but, as before, can be reimbursed through your Health Care Spending Account (HCSA).
Open enrollment
Normally, those who have waived the Supplemental Health Plan must undergo a review prior to enrolling should they change their mind. Due to the substantial changes to our plan, however, Canada Life is allowing those employees to enroll during an open enrollment period of April 1 to April 30, 2024.
If you previously waived coverage and would like to enroll, send an email to benefits [at] umanitoba [dot] ca with the subject line “OPT IN: OPEN ENROLLMENT” prior to April 30, 2024.