Medicare-related communication – Not affiliated with Medicare, USPS, PSHB, or any government entity or Provider
A Trusted Non-Governmental Resource
Dental and Vision Plans Under PSHB: What’s Staying and Why It’s Good for Postal Workers
Key Takeaways:
  1. FEDVIP dental and vision coverage remains unchanged despite the transition to the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program starting on January 1, 2025.
  2. USPS employees and retirees can continue enjoying dental and vision benefits during the PSHB Open Season from November 11, 2024, to December 9, 2024, without worrying about coverage disruptions.

Keeping Your Dental and Vision Coverage Under PSHB

The introduction of the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program, launching on January 1, 2025, brings a wave of changes for Postal Service employees and retirees. However, one important piece of good news is that dental and vision coverage, offered through the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), will remain untouched by the new system. For those who have been receiving dental and vision benefits under the FEHB (Federal Employees Health Benefits) program, this means the transition will be seamless in these specific areas. It’s easy to get concerned about changes to health benefits—especially when terms like “new programs” and “transitions” are thrown around. But in this case, the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022 has ensured that you won’t be losing your dental or vision benefits as a result of the shift to PSHB. So, let’s dive into what this means for you and why it’s a good thing for postal workers.

What’s Staying the Same for Your Dental and Vision Plans

One of the major highlights of the Postal Service Health Benefits program is that it won’t affect your FEDVIP coverage. Starting January 1, 2025, PSHB will replace FEHB, but FEDVIP will continue to provide you with the same access to dental and vision plans. The services and providers you’re used to, such as routine dental exams, cleanings, and prescription eyewear, will still be available under FEDVIP, ensuring continuity of care. You may be wondering, “Why is this a big deal?” Well, dental and vision benefits are often treated separately from medical insurance. With the FEDVIP program remaining intact, it guarantees that postal workers and retirees don’t have to navigate the complexities of finding new coverage, nor will they face disruptions in care. That’s a huge relief, especially when you consider how vital dental and vision health is in our day-to-day lives.

Open Season: A Time for Review

While you don’t need to worry about losing your FEDVIP benefits, Open Season is still a perfect time to review your plans. This year’s PSHB Open Season runs from November 11, 2024, through December 9, 2024, and during this period, you have the opportunity to assess your dental and vision plans alongside your new PSHB medical coverage. You won’t be required to make any changes if you’re happy with your current coverage, but it’s always a good idea to ensure that your plan meets your needs—especially with slight changes in premiums for 2025. Dental premiums, for example, will increase by an average of 2.97%, while vision premiums will only see a small 0.87% rise. While these changes might seem small, Open Season is the perfect chance to re-evaluate and ensure you’re getting the most out of your coverage without overpaying.

FEDVIP Dental and Vision Plans: Why They Matter

It’s easy to overlook dental and vision benefits—after all, most of us focus on our medical insurance when we think about health coverage. But the truth is, dental and vision health plays a crucial role in your overall well-being. For postal workers, who often rely on their vision for detailed work and on good dental health to prevent bigger health problems, having reliable and continuous access to these benefits is a huge plus. The great thing about FEDVIP is that it offers a wide range of services, from routine checkups to more complex procedures, depending on the plan you choose. Some of the essential services you can continue to expect under FEDVIP include:
  • Routine Dental Exams and Cleanings: Regular cleanings are key to preventing serious dental issues down the road. Under FEDVIP, you’ll continue to have access to these preventative services.
  • Prescription Eyewear and Vision Care: Whether you wear glasses or contact lenses, having access to prescription eyewear ensures you can maintain optimal vision, which is especially important in jobs where attention to detail is crucial.
  • Specialized Care: Depending on your plan, you might have access to more specialized services, like orthodontics or more complex dental procedures.
Knowing that these benefits will stay the same under PSHB is a significant relief for anyone relying on these services for their health.

The Role of the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022

So, why exactly is FEDVIP staying the same when everything else is changing under PSHB? It all comes down to the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022. This legislation not only created the PSHB program but also ensured that USPS employees and retirees would still have access to other critical federal benefits. The Act made it clear that FEDVIP, along with other important programs like life insurance (FEGLI) and long-term care insurance (FLTCIP), would remain available even after the shift to PSHB. This move was likely made to minimize disruption and ensure that postal workers could focus on transitioning their medical coverage without having to worry about losing out on dental or vision care.

Understanding Your FEDVIP Premiums for 2025

Though FEDVIP remains unchanged, there are slight adjustments in premiums for 2025 that you should be aware of:
  • Dental Premiums: These will rise by an average of 2.97%. Though it’s a small increase, it’s a good idea to review your plan and ensure that you’re getting the coverage that suits your needs.
  • Vision Premiums: The average increase here is a modest 0.87%, meaning you won’t see a huge jump in your costs for vision care. This is particularly good news given the rising costs of healthcare in general.
These adjustments are part of the natural ebb and flow of health insurance costs. During Open Season, you’ll have the chance to review any changes and make adjustments if needed. However, for many postal workers, the slight premium increases will likely be manageable, especially when balanced with the importance of maintaining continuous care.

Why This Is Good News for Postal Workers

When a major shift like the transition to PSHB happens, it’s normal to feel a bit uneasy. Health benefits are a huge part of your overall compensation package, and any change to them can feel overwhelming. But in this case, the fact that your dental and vision coverage under FEDVIP will remain untouched is truly good news. Here’s why:
  • Continuity of Care: You won’t have to change dentists or eye doctors. You can continue to receive care from the same providers you trust.
  • Stability in Benefits: Your benefits for services like cleanings, exams, and eyewear will continue without disruption, making it easier to manage your healthcare.
  • Simplicity in Transition: Because your FEDVIP coverage isn’t changing, you can focus on understanding the changes under PSHB for your medical coverage without worrying about your dental and vision plans.

Looking Ahead to PSHB Open Season

As you prepare for PSHB Open Season, remember that you’ll have the opportunity to review both your medical and FEDVIP plans. While you’re not required to change your FEDVIP coverage, it’s always a good idea to take a close look at your options, especially with the small changes in premiums coming for 2025. Whether you’re happy with your current plan or considering switching, Open Season is your chance to ensure that your dental and vision needs will continue to be met.

Your Health Benefits Are in Good Hands

When all is said and done, the transition to PSHB doesn’t mean a complete overhaul of your benefits. Thanks to the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022, your dental and vision coverage remains stable under FEDVIP, ensuring that you can continue to take care of your overall health. With Open Season running from November 11, 2024, to December 9, 2024, you have time to evaluate your plans and make informed decisions about your coverage. Rest easy knowing that even with changes on the horizon, your dental and vision benefits will stay right where they need to be.

USPS Health Benefits Plan

Changes to the USPS Health Benefits Plan impact millions of people. These changes will affect your healthcare choices in the future.

Get the help and answers you need. No Cost. No Obligation.

Are you a Licensed Agent? CLICK HERE to apply for a directory listing

Questions About USPS Health Benefits Plan or The PSHB Program?

All The Information You Need On PSHB Costs. Examine PSHB vs. FEHB And More

More Articles

Key Takeaways: Medicare Part D and the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program offer
Key Takeaways: The transition from the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program to the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program is now in effect as of January 1, 2025. Understanding e...
Key Takeaways• The Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program offers a range of coverage options tailored to meet different healthcare needs, from comprehensive to budget-friendly plans.• Understanding your
Key Takeaways Medicare Supplement Plan...
Key Takeaways The Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program is designed exclusively for USPS employees and retirees, while Medicare serves as a federal health insurance program for those 65 an...
Key Takeaways: Understanding PSHB deductibles helps you avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses and plan your

Questions About USPS Health Benefits Plan, Medicare or the PSHB Program?

Enter Your Zip Code and Find the Best-Rated Independent Agents

Are you a Licensed Agent? CLICK HERE to apply for a directory listing

Leave Your Feedback

eBook

Contact Agent

Got a question or need assistance? We're here to help! Just fill out the form below, and our team will promptly address your inquiries.

Send a Message to Agent

Got a question or need assistance? We're here to help! Just fill out the form below, and our team will promptly address your inquiries.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Our Readers Deserve The Best PSHB and USPS Health Benefits Guidance

Licensed insurance agents who understand PSHB, Medicare, and USPS Health Benefits Plan are encouraged to apply for a free listing.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

We welcome Medicare experts to apply for a FREE listing on
www.usps-health-benefits-plan.com. Applications are approved based on background,
reputation, licensure & professional record. Professionals are encouraged to contribute to the website community by sharing and creating content.

Readers are encouraged to connect with the Professionals listed.

*Terms and conditions apply