IMPORTANT! This year is an active medical enrollment, which means you must actively enroll in medical benefits during the annual Open Enrollment period, or you will not have coverage for 2026. 2025 medical elections will NOT roll over to 2026.
Like every other year, you also must actively enroll to participate in the Health Care and/or Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, and the Retiree Medical Savings Account.
Open Enrollment is your yearly chance to review coverage and choose your best-fit for various insurance plans and flexible spending accounts. Explore this microsite to learn about all of the benefits and resources available to you.
Below, we’ve highlighted the exciting enhancements and changes we are making in 2026 and information about the 2026 Earned Time Cashout.
Helpful Resources for Open Enrollment:
You can enroll between October 20 and November 7. Click here to access PeopleSoft and complete your enrollment. You must be on the BCH network or VPN to access PeopleSoft.
If you are a Franciscan’s employee, you can enroll in PeopleSoft via the “PeopleSoft / MyApps” link on the Fran.
NEW FOR 2026
Medical Coverage Updates:
Our three current BCBSMA plans will continue under new names:
To see your 2026 per-paycheck deductions for all medical plans, visit the Medical Page. In 2026, deductions will be spread out over 27 pay periods to align with the payroll calendar.
In response to your feedback, we are also pleased to introduce a fourth BCBSMA Medical Plan option—the Blue Essentials HDHP + HSA (High-Deductible Health Plan + Health Savings Account. This option offers a lower annual premium in exchange for a higher deductible. Good news—to help offset the higher deductible, Boston Children’s will contribute $500 for Employee Only coverage and $1,000 for all other coverage levels to your HSA.
Dental Coverage Updates:
You will see a slight increase to your dental premiums. Additionally, starting January 1, mouth guards will covered under both plans. Visit the Dental page to see details on your Dental coverage.
Increased Flexible Spending Account Limits:
The IRS is increasing the limit for the Dependent Care FSA to $7,500 ($3,750 for couples filing separately).
You can use our online tool, Ask ALEX, to help you evaluate your benefit elections. ALEX asks you a series of questions, and then makes personalized recommendations based on your needs.
Use the following links to access Ask ALEX:
New BCBSMA Wellbeing Reimbursement
The BCBSMA fitness and weight loss reimbursement is now a single $200 Wellbeing reimbursement. Eligible expenses have expanded, and now include wearable fitness devices, home exercise equipment, bicycles and helmets, gym memberships, fitness classes, and more
New Coverage at On-Site Pharmacy
Experience savings and convenience when you fill your prescriptions at the Boston Children’s On-site Pharmacy. You’ll pay a reduced copay for pediatric, adult acute, maintenance, and specialty medications, with free home delivery available
New Maven Fertility, Family Building, Menopause, and Midlife Support
The new Maven program available to BCBSMA members offers a range of personalized support across fertility, family building, midlife issues, menopause, and other life stages. You and your spouse will also have access to a personalized care advocate
New GLP-1 Weight Management Program
A new GLP-1 Weight Management Program will be available through CVS with coaching and other resources (current plan participants will receive more information in November)
New Pet Insurance
We are excited to introduce our new Pet Insurance provider, MetLife, to help you care for your furry family members
New Tuition Reimbursement
Tuition Reimbursement support direct bill and for-credit certifications are now available
Reminder Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Focus on your mental wellbeing. We offer a confidential EAP through SupportLinc available 24/7/365 that includes 6 free counseling sessions, financial and legal support, work life coaching, digital resources, and more
Reminder Retirement Resources
Boston Children’s offers a 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan with a match upon eligibility, a fully funded pension plan, and financial courses and education through Fidelity
Reminder Find Diabetes Support
Comprehensive diabetes support is available to BCBSMA plan participants through Livongo