Key Takeaways

• The Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program marks a significant shift for USPS workers and retirees, with Open Season running from November 11, 2024, to December 9, 2024.
• NALC and APWU are advocating tirelessly to ensure this transition protects postal workers’ interests while keeping their health care needs at the forefront.

---

Navigating health benefits can be overwhelming, and with the upcoming transition to the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program, it’s important to stay informed. Whether you’re an active postal worker, a retiree, or planning to retire soon, there are critical updates you need to know. The National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) and the American Postal Workers Union (APWU) have been deeply involved in protecting your rights throughout this transition, working closely with lawmakers to safeguard your healthcare coverage. As the January 1, 2025, PSHB launch date approaches, you’ll need to understand how this shift will impact your healthcare options, coverage, and overall costs. NALC and APWU have advocated for ensuring that no one is left behind, that retirees are protected, and that working postal employees maintain comprehensive access to the healthcare services they need.

What Is the Postal Service Health Benefits Program?

The Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program is a new healthcare initiative that will officially replace the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) for USPS workers and retirees starting on January 1, 2025. This program was born out of the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022 and is designed to offer healthcare coverage tailored specifically to the needs of postal employees and retirees. The transition to the PSHB represents a significant change, as all postal employees and retirees will need to make choices regarding their health plans. During the PSHB Open Season—set to take place from November 11, 2024, through December 9, 2024—eligible participants will have the opportunity to review and select the health benefits plans that best suit their needs.

How NALC and APWU Are Advocating for Postal Workers

The role of the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) and the American Postal Workers Union (APWU) cannot be understated in this monumental transition. These unions have been actively negotiating with lawmakers and advocating on behalf of postal employees to ensure that the PSHB shift is seamless and fair. Both NALC and APWU have worked diligently to guarantee that USPS employees and retirees will continue to have access to high-quality healthcare options under the new program. Here are some of the key ways they are protecting your interests:

1. Ensuring Smooth Transition for Retirees

One of the primary concerns during the PSHB transition is the effect on retirees who have relied on the FEHB for their health coverage. Retirees face unique healthcare needs, and both NALC and APWU have focused on ensuring that these individuals do not experience a disruption in their healthcare services. If you are a retiree or nearing retirement, the PSHB program will still offer a variety of health plan options. However, you will need to take an active role during the Open Season to make sure that your new health benefits align with your current needs. NALC and APWU have been advocating for plan continuity to minimize the impact of the transition on retirees, ensuring that you maintain comprehensive healthcare without sudden changes to coverage or cost.

2. Protecting Active Employees’ Coverage

For current postal employees, the shift to PSHB will bring about changes, but NALC and APWU have worked to preserve the core elements of the health benefits you rely on. They have been negotiating provisions in the Postal Service Reform Act that ensure no reduction in coverage. Your access to necessary services, including preventative care, prescription medications, and specialist visits, will remain intact as you move into the new system. Additionally, both unions have been advocating for more affordable healthcare options. Their ongoing negotiations have focused on securing competitive premium rates and manageable out-of-pocket costs for postal workers.

What You Need to Do During the PSHB Open Season

As a USPS employee or retiree, your active participation in the upcoming PSHB Open Season is crucial. The Open Season will give you the chance to carefully evaluate your healthcare options under the new PSHB program.

1. Compare Your Plan Options

During the Open Season, make sure to review all available PSHB plans to determine which option best suits your health needs and financial situation. If you’re happy with your current FEHB plan, take a closer look to see if there is an equivalent option under the PSHB program. While NALC and APWU have fought hard to ensure continuity in care, the plans available under PSHB may differ slightly in terms of networks, benefits, and costs. Take the time to compare what each plan offers, including coverage for specialists, prescription drug costs, and preventative care services.

2. Consider Your Retirement Timeline

If you are approaching retirement, the shift to PSHB may coincide with your plans. Retirees often have different healthcare needs than active employees, so you should consider how your retirement healthcare will be handled under the PSHB. Both NALC and APWU are providing resources to help retirees navigate this transition, ensuring that your coverage remains consistent throughout the change.

3. Stay Informed Through Your Union

As a member of NALC or APWU, you have access to valuable resources designed to guide you through the PSHB transition. Be sure to take advantage of these tools and communications to stay up to date on deadlines, requirements, and plan options. Your union has been working hard to ensure you have the information you need to make informed decisions, so stay connected with them.

What Happens After Open Season?

Once the PSHB Open Season ends on December 9, 2024, you will be enrolled in the health plan you selected, which will take effect on January 1, 2025. From this point onward, all your healthcare services will be managed through the new PSHB program. It’s crucial to understand that this enrollment is not automatic; you must make an active choice to ensure that you’re enrolled in the right plan for you and your family. Your union will continue to advocate for your health benefits even after the launch of the PSHB program. Both NALC and APWU are committed to monitoring the program’s implementation, addressing any issues that may arise, and ensuring that USPS workers’ needs remain a top priority.

Preparing for the PSHB Shift

The upcoming shift to the PSHB program may seem daunting, but with NALC and APWU by your side, you are not navigating these changes alone. As your union representatives continue to fight for your rights, you can trust that your healthcare needs will be protected throughout the transition. Whether you’re an active employee, retiree, or somewhere in between, now is the time to start preparing. Mark your calendars for the PSHB Open Season—November 11, 2024, to December 9, 2024—and be ready to explore your healthcare options for the future.

Take Control of Your Healthcare

Don’t wait until the last minute to review your plan options. This Open Season is a critical time to ensure that your healthcare coverage under the PSHB program meets your needs. Whether you’re looking for affordable premiums, access to a broader network of specialists, or comprehensive prescription drug coverage, take this time to make an informed decision. Your health matters, and NALC and APWU are here to make sure it remains a priority as we move into the future.