DURANGO, Colo. — Fort Lewis College (FLC) announced it will absorb a 5.9% increase in employee health benefit premiums in 2025. This college-funded healthcare investment will save employees an estimated $84-$450 in annual health insurance costs, depending on their selected plan type.
“FLC’s commitment to supporting employee benefits remains strong despite rising healthcare costs,” said Human Resources Director Erin Beezley. “We know our employees face higher-than-average cost of living in our area, and we are committed to doing all we can to prevent additional financial strain.”
For 2025, FLC will cover a 5.9% medical plan premium increase and a 5.2% dental plan premium increase, with no change to vision coverage rates. Health plan designs, including deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums, remain the same to protect employees from unexpected costs.
This is the third year FLC has absorbed a health insurance rate increase: the college covered a 12% rate increase in 2024 and a 7.1% increase in 2023, contributing over $2 million annually to employee health benefits.
Open enrollment period for FLC employees
The 2025 open enrollment period is now open, allowing FLC employees to review and adjust their healthcare benefits. Employees may change health insurance plan choices, update beneficiaries and coverage levels, and enroll or re-enroll in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) if enrolled in the HDHP plan. This is also an opportunity to update FSA and HSA elections.
Future enhancements in healthcare benefits based on employee feedback
In a recent employee benefits survey, FLC employees emphasize the importance of affordable premiums and access to in-network healthcare providers. The survey also identified key challenges, including limited in-network provider options in the Four Corners area and inconsistent information from Anthem representatives about plan coverage, unexpected costs, and pre-authorization requirements. Employees also expressed a need for greater access to in-network dental and vision providers and coverage of chiropractic, acupuncture, physical therapy, and massage therapy services.