Executive Director's October Blog

October is the most exciting time of the year at SFHSS, because we’re hosting both Open Enrollment and on-site Flu Vaccine Clinics. My entire department spends the better part of the year planning for this and it’s no small feat. My favorite part is when it’s over, because your elections are where we start our planning for the next cycle. Every time you make your elections, whether you keep what you have or change your plans, you are telling us what features and plans are important to you when it comes to your benefits.

We added a new health plan for active employees and early retirees this year, Health Net CanopyCare, to provide more options for our members. You can learn about the differences of each plan at our Open Enrollment Webinars, which includes Life Stages, such as Staying Healthy, Starting a Family, Managing Chronic Conditions, Managing a Serious Illness/Advanced Care Directive and Mental Health Support. We are also switching plan administrators for our PPO Plan from UnitedHealthcare PPO to Blue Shield of California PPO – Accolade to provide our PPO members with a more personalized care experience. If you have a personal or complex question, we recommend you schedule a one-on-one Office Hour appointment that our vendors have set aside just for SFHSS members.

October is also the best time of year to get your flu prevention vaccine. You can get the free vaccine through your primary care physician (PCP) or at a local pharmacy by using your health insurance, or you can register for one of the SFHSS Well-Being sponsored on-site Flu Clinics planned for several City departments as well as open clinics for active employees, retirees and their dependents.

Set you and your family up for a healthy 2022 by reviewing your benefits and selecting the best choice for your situation and get your flu shot!

Be well,

Abbie Yant