Remember that Spending Account elections do NOT roll over from year to year.  So, if you are planning to enroll in a spending account for 2025, you must make that election before December 13th, even if you were enrolled in an account last year.

What's Changing in 2025

Annual Open Enrollment is here once again, and as we know, healthcare costs continue to rise across the US. In preparation for the 2025 plan year, Sasser Family Companies has thoroughly explored alternative programs, negotiated with vendors, and sought cost-effective solutions to keep expenses as low as possible for both the company and its employees.

For the 2025 plan year, we are implementing changes. Similar to the 2024 plan year, our plan faced another significant cost increase from our medical carrier, BlueCross BlueShield of IL. To continue making the plans affordable for both Sasser and you as a member, the design of the plans and the rates will be changing.

We utilized national benchmark data to ensure our plans remain competitive within the industry, considering employer size and geographic locations. We continue to strive for competitive pricing and excellent plan service.

What Is Changing For the New Plan Year

  • Medical Plan Design & Premium Rates
  • Medication Formulary Listing
  • NEW GLP-1 requirement
  • NEW Flex Access Specialty Medication Program
  • New FSA & HSA Maximums

Prime Therapeutics Formulary Listing

Through our due diligence, we reviewed alternative formulary options with BCBSIL’s pharmacy benefit manager. Transitioning from the Balanced Formulary to the Performance Formulary will cause minimal disruption to current medications and will result in savings for both the plan and all members. Medications that will transition to excluded are currently covered under the generic category and include those that can be purchased over the counter, such as allergy medications. Please watch for notifications from BCBSIL | Prime Therapeutics if you are currently taking a medication that may be affected by this transition.

GLP-1 Diabetic Medications

These medications have become popular for weight loss however all are not FDA approved for weight loss. BCBSIL has put protections in place that will begin in 2025 that will require anyone whose provider has submitted a prescription for these medications to go through prior authorization process to ensure that the medication is being use based on the FDA approved method. (example: Ozempic)

Flex Access Specialty Program

Members may receive outreach from Prime Therapeutics regarding the Flex Access Specialty Program. Participation in this program is free and can help you lower the cost of your specialty medications, potentially reducing the cost to zero. The program focuses on high-cost medications where the manufacturer offers copay assistance. Prime will assist you in getting registered and approved. If you receive information or phone calls after January 1st, please note that Sasser has engaged in this program as part of our efforts to help you save on costs, and it is legitimate.

BCBSIL Medical ID Cards

With the changes to our plans, BCBSIL will be sending out new ID cards to all those who enroll or remain enrolled for 2025. These ID cards will most likely be delayed due to the time of year and you may not receive them until sometime in January.  However, your current insurance card will still work in the meantime. Please be rest assured that you have coverage if you are enrolled and can seek services. You can always check your BCBSIL Mobile App for the updated ID card as it will post to the portal faster than the mail.

 

Make Your Benefit & Dependent Changes in ADP By December 13th.

Do You Still Have Questions?

We know there’s a lot of information to absorb here and if you have any questions, we want to make sure you get the answers you need to make the best benefit choices this year.

  • You can check out our Frequently Asked Questions page, which will be updated throughout Open Enrollment as questions come in.
  • Email us at benefits@sasser.com and we will email or call you back with a personalized response.
  • Call Nicole Skelly at (773) 430-8509 until 5:00pm CST.
  • Call Brie Feldman at (773) 257-7691 until 4:00pm CST.

More Information on Your Benefit Options

Click on the links below for more detailed information on any of your benefit options.

Fidelity 401k

    • Visit www.401k.com to enroll, add or update beneficiaries, or make changes to your contributions
    • You can also call 800-294-4015