START HERE: ENROLLMENT CHECKLIST
Open enrollment runs November 12–17, 2026. Changes effective January 1, 2027.
- Review what is changing for 2027.
- Review the 2027 medical premiums.
- Complete your enrollment November 12-17. In HornetHQ, enroll in or decline medical, dental, and vision coverage, and make your FSA elections.
- Considering The Samaritan Fund? Get started by completing the HIPAA release. Please allow up to two weeks for an initial response during this busy enrollment period.
- Complete a final check. Review the remaining sections of this page to make sure your benefit elections are complete and accurate.
BEGINNING JANUARY 1: Get Ready to Use Your 2027 Benefits
- Verify your providers and prescriptions.
- Check whether your medical providers are Tier 1 providers through Nomi Health using the provider search. Group ID: 1013.
- Beginning January 1, set up an Evo/AroRx prescription account for each covered family member at evofirst.com.
- Use your new ASR ID card for your 2027 medical, prescription, dental, and/or vision coverage.
- If you enrolled in a Medical Flexible Spending Account (FSA), use your reloaded FSA card for eligible medical, prescription, dental, and vision expenses.
Recording
The recording of the 2027 benefits information session will be posted here. Check back soon.
Key Dates
- Open enrollment: November 12–17, 2026: Enroll or decline in HornetHQ.
- Information sessions in Mandelle Hall, Olmsted Room:
- Thursday, Nov 12, 11:00 AM.
- Friday, Nov 13, 1:00 PM.
- Tuesday, Nov 17, 10:30 AM.
- Drop-in enrollment help in Mandelle Hall, Room 112:
- Thursday, Nov 12, 3:00–4:30 PM.
- Friday, Nov 13, 11:00 AM–noon and 3:00–4:30 PM.
- Monday, Nov 16, 9:00–11:00 AM and 3:00–4:30 PM.
- Tuesday, Nov 17, 3:00–4:30 PM.
- Coverage begins January 1, 2027.
What is Changing
- One revised Black Plan replaces the Black and Orange plans.
- Tier 2 has a higher deductible and higher copays for some services.
- EVO and AroRx pharmacy transition effective January 1.
- Tier 3 prescription copays increase.
- New voluntary Samaritan Fund option.
Medical Insurance and Premiums
Network Tiers:
| Tier 1: Nomi | Tier 2* | |||
| Single | Family | Single | Family | |
| Deductible | $0 | $0 | $3,000 | $6,000 |
| Coinsurance maximum | $0 | $0 | $3,000 | $6,000 |
| Out-of-pocket maximum | $7,900 | $15,800 | $7,900 | $15,800 |
| Common services | You pay… | You pay… | ||
| Your share | 0% | 70% after deductible | ||
| Amwell virtual visits | $0 | $0 | ||
| Primary care | $0 | $30 | ||
| Specialist | $0 | $60 | ||
| Urgent care | $35 | $50 | ||
| Emergency room | $400* | $400* | ||
Review the Plan Summary for more detailed information
Tools to S-T-R-E-T-C-H your dollars:
Amwell virtual visits:
ASR members can get quality health care anytime, anywhere through AmWell virtual doctor visits. Using your smart phone, tablet, or computer you can have a face-to-face consultation with an in-network, U.S. board-certified doctor in your state from the comfort of home or wherever you are. If the doctor recommends a prescription, they’ll send it to a pharmacy near you.
Use AmWell when…
- You need to see a doctor, but don’t have time
- Your doctor’s office is closed
- You feel too sick to leave the house
- You need to care for your children
- You’re traveling away from home
Cost for Coverage: $0 / patient.amwell.com / 844-733-3627
Enroll today so you’re ready when you need it…
Step 1: Enroll
Visit patients.amwell.com, click Sign-Up in the upper right corner, enter your name, e-mail address, and create a password.
Important! Add Service Key: asrcopaywaived
Step 2: Choose a Doctor
Select Join Waiting Room under the provider you want to see.
Step 3: See a Doctor
Complete the patient questionnaire before your visit. You will need to submit payment information, even if there is no charge for your visit. When a doctor is available, your visit will begin.
ASR Healthcare Choices + Rewards:
This program is built into the ASR member portal to help you shop for fair price providers for specific procedures and earn rewards for selecting providers / facilities marked with a green trophy. When you shop for lower-cost health care services — like mammograms, colonoscopies, and X-rays — you’ll not only save money, but you’ll also earn rewards too.
- Search for hundreds of procedures
- Understand costs + timelines
- Find providers in your area
Diabetes Program by Teladoc Health:
Free program for members with Type 2 Diabetes. Get relevant connected devices and expert coaching support. The program provides:
- Connected blood glucose meter that provides personalized insights at every check.
- Online access to blood glucose readings, along with graphs and insights.
- Coaching and real-time support by phone, text message, and the Teladoc mobile app.
- Free unlimited strips and lancets shipped directly to members.
Flexible Spending Accounts:
Medical Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
A Medical FSA lets you set aside pre-tax dollars from your paycheck to pay for eligible health care expenses, such as deductibles, copays, prescriptions, dental care, and vision expenses. Your full annual election is available at the beginning of the plan year, even though contributions are deducted throughout the year.
Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
A Dependent Care FSA lets you set aside pre-tax dollars from your paycheck to help pay eligible dependent care expenses that allow you (and your spouse, if applicable) to work, such as child care, preschool, before- and after-school programs, day camp, or qualifying adult/elder care. Unlike a Medical FSA, reimbursement is limited to the amount that has been contributed to your account at the time of the claim.
Nomi Tier 1 Providers:
Tier 1 – If you use providers in the Nomi Health Network, you will save money with no deductible and no copays (except for ER + Urgent Care visits).
Click HERE to find a provider – Group # 1013 or Call a Nomi Network Care Guide: 855-601-1900
Plan Summary
Contact Human Resources at hr.benefits@kzoo.edu for a printed copy of the Plan Summary.
Michigan Residents
Non-Michigan Residents
Prescription Drugs
Evo/EvoRx replaces Prime Therapeutics on January 1, 2027. Tiers 1 and 2 stay the same. Tier 3 copays increase by $25.
Pro Tip:Use your new medical ID card, confirm prior authorizations, and plan refills early.
Your copays:
| Drug Tier | 1-30 day supply | 31-90 day supply |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $15 | $35 |
| Tier 2 | $40 | $100 |
| Tier 3 | $100 | $250 |
Register:
Register at evofirst.com on or after January 1, with a separate account for each covered family member.
Contact Information:
ARORx: 833-306-4092, available 24/7.
Kroger mail order: 800-552-6694 or PPSRX.com.
Samaritan Fund
Voluntary financial assistance:
All may apply. Some will be accepted.
Samaritan is voluntary financial assistance for qualifying people with serious medical conditions. Eligibility is reviewed confidentially by Samaritan Fund. To get started, complete the HIPAA authorization. An initial response from The Samaritan Fund may take two weeks due to the time of year.
Before waiving College coverage, get policy dates, support terms, and any return rights from HR in writing. An application is not an insurance election. Visit samaritanfundprogram.com for more information.
Common questions:
How does Samaritan Fund Work?
- If you have a serious medical condition with high cost treatment, electronically submit a confidential Medical Insurance Release form.
- A Samaritan Fund Program Representative reaches out to explain the program, answer questions, and gather your information.
- If approved a personalized Samaritan Fund Program offer is issued.
- If you wish to accept you will sign and submit your offer letter.
- Your account is set up and we issue your debit card for medical expenses.
- Enjoy the Peace of Mind to Heal.
I am interested in Samaritan Fund. How should I handle open enrollment now?
Make your Kalamazoo College open enrollment decisions just as you would if Samaritan Fund was not available. Obtaining other coverage is a permissible reason to drop Kalamazoo College coverage. Losing other coverage is also a reason to come onto Kalamazoo College’s medical insurance. Notice to Human Resources must be provided within 30 days of obtaining or losing other coverage.
I was approved and accepted coverage through Samaritan Fund. What do I do now?
Obtaining other coverage is a permissible reason to drop Kalamazoo College coverage. Notice to Human Resources must be provided within 30 days of obtaining or losing other coverage.
How strong is Samaritan Fund’s financial position? Will they run out of money and I’ll be left with no health insurance?
The Samaritan Fund is in a strong financial position.There are no concerns about funding or access to medical coverage.
I want to communicate directly with someone from Samaritan Fund. How do I get in contact with someone?
Contact Samaritan Fund anytime. 866-764-9290 | service@samaritanfundprogram.com
Dental, Vision and Flexible Spending
Dental Details:
The dental plan runs on the calendar year, meaning your maximums and frequency limits reset on January 1 each year. No network for this plan. Visit any provider. Bill ASR directly or request reimbursement from ASR.
| Item | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Deductible | $50 per person / $150 per family |
| Annual Maximum | $1,300 per person |
| Orthodontia Lifetime Maximum | $1,000 per person |
| You Pay… | |
| Preventive / Diagnostic Services | $0 |
| Basic Services | Deductible, then 20% |
| Major Services | Deductible, then 50% |
| Orthodontia Services (to age 19) | Deductible, then 50% |
Vision Details:
The vision plan runs on the calendar year, meaning your maximums and frequency limits reset on January 1 each year. No network for this plan. Visit any provider. Bill ASR directly or request reimbursement from ASR.
| Item | Coverage |
|---|---|
| You Pay… | |
| Eye Exam One time every calendar year | $0 |
| Standard Frames One time every two calendar years | $0 |
| Standard Lenses One time every calendar year | $0 |
| Contacts (instead of glasses) One time every calendar year | $0 |
| LASIK, PRK, & Other Corrective Surgery | $0 |
| Benefit Maximum | $350 per member, per year |
Flexible Spending:
| Health Care FSA | Dependent Care FSA | ||
| Maximum Contribution | $3,400 | $7,500 | $3,750 if married and filing separately |
| Elected Funds Are Available | 1/1/27 | As funds are contributed | |
| Expenses Must Be Incurred Between | 1/1/27 – 12/31/27 | 1/1/27 – 12/31/27 | |
| Submit Expenses for Reimbursement by | 3/31/28 | 3/31/28 | |
| Rollover Amount | $680 | N/A | |
| Rollover Funds Available | 4/1/28 | N/A | |
| Compatible with an HDHP + HSA Plan | No | Yes | |
Life, Disability, Accident, and EAP
Life Insurance:
The College provides Basic Life and AD&D at 2x annual earnings, up to $100,000, at no cost to you. You can also purchase voluntary coverage. See HR for details.
Short Term Disability:
Paid for by Kalamazoo College.
| Monthly Benefit Percentage | 60% of your regular income* |
| Benefits Begin After | 3 days of injury or illness |
| Maximum Benefit Period | 6 months |
Long Term Disability:
Premium 100% paid for by Kalamazoo College.
| Monthly Benefit Percentage | 60% of your regular income |
| Benefits Begin After | 180 days of injury or illness |
| Maximum Monthly Benefit | $8,000 |
| Maximum Benefit Period | Age 65 |
Accident Insurance:
A cash benefit for injuries from an accident.
| Situation | Benefit Amount |
| Hospital admission | $1,000 per regular admission $1,000 per ICU admission (added to regular admission) |
| Hospital confinement | $300 per day, regular admission $300 per day, ICU admission – max 15 days (added to regular admission) |
| ER treatment | $100 |
| Ambulance | $300 ground / $1,000 air |
| Fractures | Up to $4,500 |
| Dislocations | Up to $3,375 |
| Doctor follow-up visits | $75, max 2 visits per accident |
| Physical therapy visits | $20, max 15 visits per accident |
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
Employees and dependents get three no-cost visits per year, with or without a College medical plan. Learn more at https://hr.kzoo.edu/current-employees/eap/
Eligibility & Your Family
Eligibility:
Full-time employees work 40 hours per week. Part-time employees work 20 or more hours per week.
Spouse or partner:
A spouse must be legally married to you. A domestic partner requires a declaration and a shared permanent residence for at least 6 months. Medical coverage generally requires no offer of coverage from another employer, with exceptions.
Children:
Medical, dental, and vision continue through the end of the month after the 26th birthday. Other coverages end at the 26th birthday. Special eligibility applies to unmarried children unable to support themselves because of a disability.
Making changes and when coverage ends
Qualifying life events:
Notify HR and make changes within 30 days. Examples include birth, marriage, divorce, or obtaining other coverage. Otherwise, elections stay locked for the plan year.
When coverage ends:
Medical, dental, and vision end on the last day of the following month. Other coverages end on the date of the event. COBRA may be available.
Retirement and financial planning
Financial planning advice:
Get help with budgeting, investing and planning to grow your savings. Consider a free, confidential advising session with a financial advisor. HUB Financial Services advisors meet with people virtually throughout the month and are on campus regularly. Initial conversations are 30 minutes and the feedback on their services has been tremendous. They can help with questions like
- What should I be considering to maximize my wealth accumulation?
- How do I create a budget?
- How should I invest my money?
Retirement Savings Plan through TIAA:
The TIAA 403(b) allows pretax or Roth after-tax contributions. Visit https://hr.kzoo.edu/benefits/retirement-savings/ to get started.
Retirement Health Savings Account:
This College-funded Retirement Health Savings Account helps cover eligible healthcare costs after retirement. Learn more at https://hr.kzoo.edu/benefits/retirement-savings/.
Get Help and More Information
Human Resources:
Renee Boelcke
renee.boelcke@kzoo.edu
269-337-7248
Employee Care Center:
855-306-1099
weekdays 8 AM–5 PM ET
midwestadvocacy@acrisure.com
Learn more about free Employee Care Center services at https://hr.kzoo.edu/benefits/employee-benefits-concierge/.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are the 2027 health benefit changes final?
Yes. All previously proposed changes have been adopted for 2027. Salary-based premium sharing will continue.
Which benefits and services will stay the same?
The following will continue:
- Nomi Network (Tier 1) no-cost provider visits, except urgent care and emergency room visits;
- No-cost Amwell telehealth across all plan tiers and locations;
- Telus Health behavioral health and Employee Assistance Program services;
- Teladoc diabetes management support and free supplies; and
- Employee Care Center assistance.
- Dental and vision plan designs will remain unchanged, with annual maximum coverage of $1,300 per person for dental and $350 per person for vision.
How will the revised Black Plan affect my costs?
The current Black and Orange plans will be replaced with one revised Black Plan. Tier 1 (Nomi) no-cost visits and services will remain unchanged from 2026. Tier 2 deductibles are $3,000 for individual coverage and $6,000 for family coverage. Tier 2 copays will be $30 for primary care, $60 for specialists, $50 for urgent care, and $400 for emergency room visits, with the emergency copay waived if admitted. Your costs will depend on your current plan, providers, and care needs.
I used a Nomi provider but got a bill anyway. Should I pay it? What if I already paid it?
Some services, such as anesthesia, advanced imaging, or lab work, may be billed at Tier 2 rates even when you use a Tier 1 (Nomi) provider. Before paying, contact the Employee Care Center for help reviewing the bill and sorting out the charges. If you have already paid, the Employee Care Center can also help you seek a refund, if appropriate.
What if I need a non-Nomi specialist or receive an unexpected bill at a Nomi facility?
Employees have raised concerns about access to specialized care, charges from independently billing providers at Nomi facilities, and lengthy billing disputes. The Employee Care Center will continue to help with billing, referrals, eligibility, and plan questions.
What is the Samaritan Fund option, and who can participate?
The voluntary program will offer qualifying employees or dependents an individual insurance plan with no out-of-pocket costs. All ASR-eligible members can apply, but not everyone will qualify. Eligibility will be reviewed annually. Members can accept or decline an offer; those declining can remain on K’s ASR insurance.
Will prescription coverage or prior authorizations change?
Evo/AroRx will replace Prime Therapeutics as the pharmacy benefits manager on January 1, 2027. Approved prior authorizations will carry over. Best Practice: Ensure that you have enough medication on hand to get you into the first week of January.
Where can I send questions or explain how the changes could affect my family?
Contact Renee Boelcke in Human Resources at renee.boelcke@kzoo.edu, especially with questions about access to care, prescription continuity, or the financial effects of the changes. The Employee Care Center will continue to assist with billing, eligibility, referrals, pharmacy issues, and understanding your plan.
Important Notices:
Review your healthcare rights and coverage notices in the benefits toolkit at bit.ly/KCbookshelf
This page provides a general overview. The insurance policies supersede any information presented here. Last updated on the date shown below.