DRAFT FRIC Meeting Minutes
March 6, 2026

Zoom Meeting

1130 AM to 100 PM

Members present: Julie Urmie*, John Laverty*, Mary Charlton, George Hospodarsky, Daniel Katz, Cormac O’Sullivan, Anand Vijh, Matthew Watson, Chuck Wieland^, Richard Peter, Michael Weaver, Anya Prince, Angela Speers

*Co-chairs

Members absent: Josey Bathke

Administrative Liaisons present: Joni Troester, Rebecca Olson

Visitors present: Cheri Smith, Dana Stafford, Julie Sexton, Cheryl Reardon, Audrey Haddy, Neda Barrett, Kara Wright, Jessica Wade, Melissa Twait, Justin Frase, Kate Klefstad, Britt Marcussen, Mike Kaplan, Marygrace Elson, Erin Litton, Mike Barron

1. Introductions and Roll Call– Urmie and Laverty
   • Roll call taken and quorum established.
2. Approval of February meeting minutes – Urmie and Laverty
   • Chuck Wieland motioned to approve the minutes.
   • George Hospodarksy seconded.
   • Cormac Sullivan abstained as he was unable to attend last month’s meeting; otherwise, the rest of the committee unanimously approved.
3. Retirement Fund Investment Committee Update – Laverty
   • John Laverty is the Faculty/Staff Representative on this committee.
   • RFIC was created in 2018.
   • RFIC is dedicated to ensuring the prudent management and oversight of the university’s retirement plans.   
   • The Committee engages with an independent, third-party investment advisor, CAPTRUST, who provides guidance and assistance in fiduciary responsibility.
   • CAPTRUST was selected as the university investment advisor in 2024.
   • In September of 2025, the university updated its TIAA-administered retirement plans to offer a more streamlined, cost-effective investment fund lineup. 

   • There is an estimated $5.64 million in annual savings which goes back to participants in the retirement plans.

      

4. Plan Design Considerations for CY2027 – Olson and Troester
   • Dental Plan
     1. Periodontic Maintenance Therapy – current coverage is 100% with a proposed change of 90% / 80% which is the same as other Periodontic services.   
     2. The committee reviewed the estimated impact to members and potential plan savings.
     3. Chuck Wieland motioned to accept the proposed change to Periodontic Maintenance Therapy for CY2027.  Julie Urmie seconded the motion.  The committee approved the change.
   • Health Plan
     1. UIChoice/UISelect Pharmacy OPM Options for consideration for CY2027 were discussed.
     2. 2 options were presented for each health plan, including estimated impact to participants and potential plan savings.  
     3. Chuck Wieland requested the proposed changes be presented as a percentage change and dollar change.
     4. Additional information will be brought back to the committee at the April meeting.
5. GLP-1 Pilot Update and Future Plan Design Coverage Considerations – Troester
   • During the February 2026 meeting, this committee supported the extension of this pilot through CY 2027 (12/31/27). Communication will go out to participants next week.
   • Conversations will occur with AON over the summer to look at options for coverage and plan cost.   
   • There was discussion to Embed coverage of the GLP-1 in Plan Design or Coverage by Exception.
     1. Administrative structure not set-up to “cover by exception” at scale.
     2. Embedding in plan design is consistent with other medications.
     3. Able to utilize step therapy and prior authorization protocols as established by Wellmark.
     4. Discussion on plan design to follow FDA use guidelines for BMI or customize to higher BMI threshold.
     5. Embedding coverage in plan design allows for scalability across the plans.                     
   • There was more discussion about Step Therapy and Prior Authorizations.
     1. Standard utilization management tools in place.
     2. Ensures that patient tries lower cost efficacious drugs at the beginning of treatment.
     3. Prior authorizations will allow for review of eligibility criteria, engagement in behavior change services, and on-going prescription use after a pre-determined time.
     4. Both allows the plan to manage utilization and cost.
     5. Members wanted additional information on the step therapy and prior authorization criteria used by Wellmark.
   • The last discussion was about Clinical Access via Narrow Network or Open Network.
     1. The Narrow Network was explained as it allows for consistency of quality patient care, better adherence to plan design requirements, and greater ability to manage plan costs.
     2. The Domestic Network (Level 1) may include the UI Health Care Weight Management Clinic providers (Unit within Endocrinology); UI Health Care primary care providers that adhere to agreed upon standards of care; and collaboration with UI Health Care leadership in respective clinical areas to build out provider network access for scale.
     3. Exploration of limited number of providers at Level 2. Identify certified weight management specialists within Level 2 for inclusion in narrow network.   
     4. A committee member asked about access to GLP-1 medications for those UI employees who live out of state. This will be taking into consideration in future discussions.
   • There was good discussion about all the above by the committee and GLP-1 will be brought back in April as an agenda item.
6. Access Metrics – Troester  
   • January 2026 Access Metrics were shared from UI Health Care.
   • The Primary Care Breakdown was shared and has a target of 90% being seen within 10 days.  Family Medicine 72% (decline from 84%), Internal Medicine 71% (steady), OB-Gyn 75% (slight improvement from 72%), Pediatrics 96%, and Peds Associates 100%.
   • Secondary Care Access was shared including stats from Dermatology, DDC, Heart & Vascular, Hospital Dentistry, Neurology, Ophthalmology, and Otolaryngology.
   • It was mentioned the contracted Anesthesiologist group with the Medical Center Downtown (MCD) will be getting a new tax ID for billing as a Level 1 provider.  They should have the new tax ID in April or May.
   • Members should contact Rebecca Olson or Joni Troester if they have access issues.
7. Motion to adjourn:
   • George Hospodarsky motioned to adjourn.
   • Angela Speers seconded.
   • Committee unanimously approved adjournment.

Next Meeting

April 3, 2026 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. via Zoom

Presentations

May 1 – Update on North Liberty Medical Center

DRAFT FRIC Meeting Minutes
February 6, 2026
Zoom Meeting
1130 AM to 100 PM

Members present: Julie Urmie*, John Laverty*, Josey Bathke, Mary Charlton, George Hospodarsky, Daniel Katz, Anand Vijh, Matthew Watson, Chuck Wieland, Richard Peter, Michael Weaver, Angela Spears
*Co-chairs
Members absent: Cormac O’Sullivan, Anya Prince

Administrative Liaisons present: Joni Troester, Rebecca Olson

Visitors present: Cheri Smith, Dana Stafford, Julie Sexton, Cheryl Reardon, Audrey Haddy, Kara Wright, Jessica Wade, Melissa Twait, Megan Threlkeld, Justin Frase, Erin Litton, Kate Klefstad, Ana Diaz-Arnold, Britt Marcussen, Marygrace Elson, Mike Kaplan

1.    Introductions and Roll Call– Urmie and Laverty
•    Roll call taken and quorum established.

2.    Approval of December meeting minutes – Urmie and Laverty
•    Chuck Wieland motioned to approve the minutes.
•    Mary Charlton seconded. 
•    Committee unanimously approved.

3.    Open Enrollment Final Results – Olson
•    Health insurance enrollment stats from 1/1/2025 compared to 1/1/2026.
•    UISelect showed a larger increase in participation in 2026 than UIChoice.  
•    As of Jan 1, 2026, there are 76% UIChoice contracts and 24% UISelect.
•    In 2026, Employee Only and Double Spouse Credit for UISelect remains at a $0 employee cost.  With this $0 premium cost, the $90/month General Benefit Credit is available to help with the premium cost of other benefits an employee chooses or defaulted into FSA if no other insurance coverages selected. 
•    For new employees, many find that UISelect is similar to the health plan offered with their previous employer.  
•    Plan demographics do show a 3–4-year younger age difference the plans. 
•    The per member/per month cost for each plan is reviewed each year and UISelect costs are close to 50% of what UIChoice costs are. 
•    Premium costs are set across the entire employee membership.

4.    Short Term Disability Update – Olson 
•    MetLife Short Term Disability plan effective April 1, 2026.
•    This is voluntary insurance coverage and will be 100% employee paid.
•    Choice of coverage in $100 increments from $400 to $5,000 monthly benefit (limited to 60% of earnings). 
•    An email announcement will be sent to regular benefits-eligible Faculty/Staff/House Staff next week.  
•    An initial Open Enrollment will be March 2-13 with no evidence of insurability required.  New Hires may enroll within 30 days of hire date with no evidence of insurability required.  
•    Ongoing annual Open Enrollment will allow enrollment option; however, evidence of insurability will be required. Eligible employees will have the option to add or drop coverage during Open Enrollment. 
•    This coverage may be attractive to new employees or current employees who don’t maintain a Sick Leave balance to bridge themselves to when Long Term Disability (720 hours/90 days) may apply.   
•    Premiums are age-rated based on when their coverage is issued.  

5.    GLP-1 Pilot Update and Future Plan Design Coverage Considerations – Troester
•    Updates on GLP-1 Pilot collaboration between UI Benefits, liveWell, UI health plans, UI Health Care were shared.
•    This is a two-year pilot for employees who met the criteria and have UIChoice or UISelect health insurance.  
•    Year One participant progress was shared including the pilot has 415 active participants with 1,276 visits through 12/31/2025.  All have completed Wondr Health.  
•    Median weight change is -38.68 lbs. and median BMI change is -6.20. 
•    The pilot also has shown a decrease in co-morbidities for participants including decreases in metabolic syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea. 
•    Year One participant feedback indicates many participants are extremely satisfied with life-changing outcomes and outstanding care.   Continued monitoring will occur as the pilot continues looking at operational improvements. 
•    Year One provider feedback came back with the recommendation of continuing the pilot. 
•    A recommendation was proposed to continue the pilot program through CY2027 because more time is needed for the market to stabilize, build network access, and determine financial stability for the health plan long term.   
•    A tentative timeline was shared if recommendation is approved to continue the pilot program.  
•    If pilot extended to 12/31/2027, what might it look like?   
i.    No new participants added to the pilot
ii.    Continue to support with coverage by exception for coverage of GLP-1 drugs.
iii.    Work with providers to determine feasibility of less expensive RX alternatives for maintenance – GLP-1 oral medication, other less expensive medication.  
•    Suggestion by committee to do some type of comparative analysis of those in the pilot and those not in the pilot and look at success rates. The committee was reminded that the pilot is not IRB research or looking at the effectiveness of the GLP-1.  It is about how to design a plan with a quality benefit that is sustainable. 
•    If decided the pilot should continue for another year, plan design features will need to be determined.
•    The committee asked that Dr. Jons be invited back to a FRIC meeting. We’ll try to schedule him for the March or April 2026 meeting.
•    Chuck Wieland motioned to extend the pilot another year through CY 2027 (12/31/27).
•    Josey Bathke seconded the motion.
•    The motion was unanimously approved.

6.    Plan Design Considerations – Olson and Troester
•    Dental Plan
i.    Periodontic Maintenance Therapy - current coverage is 100% with a proposed change of 90%/80% which is the same as other Periodontic services. This change would impact approximately 6,000 members.
ii.    High-Cost Services (Dentures, Crowns, Bridges) – current coverage is 80% with a proposed change of 70%. This change would impact approximately 900 members. 
iii.    For the March meeting, updated modeling will be provided with unique member impact if change is implemented. 
•    Health Plan
i.    Pharmacy OPM – updates completed every other year, last updated CY2025.
1.    For the March meeting, modeling will be provided for two options including member impact and financial savings 
ii.    Health Benefits Review Recommendations: Traditional Deductible; Salary Based Premium Tiers (percent cost of premium based on salary range).  

7.    Vaccination Coverage – Troester
•    Monitoring the release of new CDC guidelines.
•    All recommended vaccinations will remain covered by UI health plans at 100%. There will be no changes to the vaccination coverage.  
•    No vote needed

8.    Access Metrics – Troester  
•    December 2025 Access Metrics shared from UI Health Care.
•    The Primary Care Breakdown was shared and has a target of 90% being seen within 10 days.   
•    Secondary Care Access was shared including stats from Dermatology, DDC, Heart & Vascular, Hospital Dentistry, Ophthalmology, and Psychiatry.  
•    Members should contact Rebecca Olson or Joni Troester if they have access issues.  
•    No vote needed

9.    Motion to adjourn: 
•    Chuck Wieland motioned to adjourn.
•    Mary Charlton seconded.
•    Committee unanimously approved adjournment.

Next Meeting
March 6, 2026 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. via Zoom
 

DRAFT FRIC Meeting Minutes
December 5, 2025

Zoom Meeting

1130 AM to 100 PM

Members present: Julie Urmie*, John Laverty*, Josey Bathke, Mary Charlton, Daniel Katz, Cormac O’Sullivan, Anand Vijh, Chuck Wieland, Richard Peter, Michael Weaver, Anya Prince

*Co-chairs

Members absent: George Hospodarsky, Matthew Watson, Angela Spears

Administrative Liaisons present: Joni Troester, Rebecca Olson

Visitors present: Cheri Smith, Dana Stafford, Julie Sexton, Cheryl Reardon, Audrey Haddy, Neda Barrett, Kara Wright, Jessica Wade, Melissa Twait, Justin Frase, Ana Diaz-Arnold, Kate Klefstad, Mike Barron, Andrew Nugent, Cody Ching

1. Introductions and Roll Call– Urmie and Laverty
   • Roll call taken and quorum established.

2. Approval of November 7, 2025 meeting minutes – Urmie and Laverty
   • Chuck Wieland motioned to approve the minutes.
   • Mike Weaver seconded.

   • Committee unanimously approved.

      

3. UI Health Care Emergency Department Update – Dr. Andrew Nugent and Cody Ching
   • Updates on UI Health Care Emergency Department.
   • There are now 3 Emergency Department Locations: Medical Center University (MCU), Medical Center Downtown (MCD) and Medical Center North Liberty (MCNL).
   • The ED in the MCU is a Level 1 trauma center and has 60 spaces; the ED in the MCD is a Level 3 trauma center and has 22 spaces; the ED in the MCNL is a Level 4 trauma center and has 14 spaces.
   • The ED in the MCU had a needed expansion due to the increase in patient volumes, increase in wait times, and increase in high acuity patients. Enhancements include more treatment spaces, improved triage, and dedicated spaces for specialized care.
   • The ED in the MCU also had a South expansion that added 13 multi-purpose rooms to ensure mental health emergencies are managed safely and with dignity.  This expansion also increased Radiology capacity.
   • The MCU added a Pedatric ED that includes 13 rooms, and the team includes Pediatric Emergency Medicine Faculty, dedicated Pediatric ED nurses, and a Child Life Specialist (new) to support emotional and developmental care for patients and their families. Design elements include calming lights and child friendly artwork.
   • The ED at MCNL opened April 2025 with 13 treatment spaces, 2 preferred behavioral health spaces and a dedicated resuscitation bay. It was estimated there would be 9,000 visits/year but this ED is on tract for 18,000 visits/year.
   • Committee asked if there has been thought of adding estimated wait times outside of the EDs in the different locations so if the wait time is going to be hours, a patient may choose to go to a different ED location. Good discussion followed.
   • Committee also asked if staffing is an issue, and it was answered that staffing will be fine for the long term and there will be expansion of the residency program for the ED.
   • The MCNL, Walk-in Clinic was mentioned, and it was discussed how it related to the ED.  Minor ortho injuries can be seen in this clinic.
   • Committee asked about the staffing in the ED at the MCNL.  It was answered that a Mercy, Cedar Rapids group of providers is contracted with a 3-year contract, and it is going well.
   • There are approximately 300/month patient transfers between the 3 UI Eds by Johnson County Ambulance.
   • UIChoice and UISelect health plans cover ER visits as Level 1 benefits. 

4. Open Enrollment Initial Results – Olson
   • Open enrollment was from October 31 – November 14, 2025.
   • It went smoothly this year with strong participation – approximately 66% faculty and staff participated.
   • Preliminary results were shared including 76% enrolled in UIChoice and 24% enrolled in UISelect.  A small increase over last year where 78% enrolled in UIChoice  and 22% in UISelect.
   • Final results will be presented in the February 2026 FRIC meeting.
   • An Annual Year end Benefits Reminder email will be sent on December 9^th.  Important information will be shared about members receiving new ID cards due to the increase in the medical OPMs and announcement of the Voluntary Vision Insurance open enrollment between January 1- February 28, 2026.
   • Retiree Open Enrollment runs October 15 – December 7.  A separate mailing was sent this year to those retirees in a Health Alliance plan that will be ending December 31, 2025.
   • There was good participation in our retiree open enrollment meetings. Health Alliance retirees were offered their own sessions that had very strong participation Rebecca Olson  made a special shout out to Kevin Ward and Ana Diaz-Arnold for all their support of the Health Alliance retirees this fall. 

5. Funded Retirement and Insurance Committee: Review Charter – Troester
   • This review is a request from Laura McLeran in the UI President’s office to look into how charter committees are working and determine if there are any recommended changes.
   • The FRIC charter includes information about membership, term of membership and charge to the committee.
   • There were 3 suggestions from the committee
     1. Draft membership expectations around attendance, engagement, and time commitment.
     2. Include language that addresses the growth of the overall UI organization and the flexibility to increase membership if it’s determined a need
     3. Consider UIRA voting member
   • There will be follow up on this in the Spring 2026.  

6. Secure Act 2.0 – Olson
   • Shared an update on Jan 1 implementation.
   • A targeted email was sent this week to those employees enrolled in a VRSP or 457(b) plan who will be affected by the new federal rules.
   • Under the Secure Act 2.0 of 2022, employees who earn more than $150,000 in FICA wages in the previous calendar year (starting with 2025) must make all catch-up contributions on an after-tax Roth basis.
   • This income threshold will be adjusted for inflation in future years.
   • If you qualify, your “Over Age 50” and/or “Age 60-63” catch-up contributions will automatically switch to Roth when you begin contributing.
   • A Roth contribution means you pay taxes now, so your withdrawals in retirement are tax-free.
   • Employees can update their contributions anytime in Employee Self Service. 

   • It is recommended employees review their retirement savings strategy; consider consulting a financial advisor to understand how these changes may affect your plans. 

      

7. Access Metrics – Troester  
   • October 2025 Access Metrics shared from UI Health Care. 

   • Primary Care Breakdown was shared and has a target of 90% being seen within 10 days.   Family Medicine 82% (steady), Internal Medicine 14% (smaller), 

     Ob-Gyn 82% (improved) and Peds/Peds Associates 100%.   

   • Secondary Care Access was shared including stats from Dermatology, DDC, Hearth & Vascular, Hospital Dentistry, Ophthalmology, and Psychiatry. 

   • Members should contact Rebecca Olson or Joni Troester if they have access issues.

      

8. Motion to adjourn:
   • Chuck Wieland motioned to adjourn.
   • Cormac O’Sullivan seconded.
   • Committee unanimously approved adjournment.

Next Meeting

February 6, 2026 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. via Zoom

DRAFT FRIC Meeting Minutes
November 7, 2025

Zoom Meeting

1130 AM to 100 PM

Members present: Julie Urmie*, Mary Charlton, George Hospodarsky, Daniel Katz, Cormac O’Sullivan, Anand Vijh, Matthew Watson, Chuck Wieland, Richard Peter, Michael Weaver, Anya Prince, Angela Spears

*Co-chairs

Members absent: John Laverty*, Josey Bathke

Administrative Liaisons present: Joni Troester, Rebecca Olson

Visitors present: Cheri Smith, Dana Stafford, Julie Sexton, Cheryl Reardon, Audrey Haddy, Neda Barrett, James Jorris, Kara Wright, Jessica Wade, Justin Frase, Erin Litton, Britt Marcussen, Kate Klefstad, William Silverman, Erika Holm-Brown

1. Introductions and Roll Call– Urmie
   • Roll call taken and quorum established.

2. Approval of October 3, 2025 meeting minutes – Urmie
   • Chuck Wieland motioned to approve the minutes.
   • Mary Charlton seconded. 

   • Committee unanimously approved. 

      

3. GLP-1 Pilot Program Update – Troester/Litton/Olson
   • Joni provided an update on the 2 year pilot program which began on Jan 1, 2025.
   • It has been a collaborative effort to identify a financially sustainable plan design for GLP-1 coverage with the Patient Access Center, Weight Management Clinic (Dept of Endocrinology), UI Specialty Pharmacy, UI Benefits, liveWELL, and UI Health Care Population Health.
   • At the end of 2024, 495 employees accepted an offer to enter the program in 2025. As of May 2025, the number of participants is 417. Some employees were dropped because they didn’t meet eligibility and others decided to drop after Jan 1^st.  
   • Behavior Modification Programs include Wondr Health (required) and Health Coaching (optional).  392 participants have completed the Wondr Health program.  All participants are scheduled to complete by the end of year 2025.
   • A Satisfaction Survey was given within 6 months of the start of the program. Results from the survey are positive regarding the application process, clinic visits, medicine management.   A lower satisfaction result is showing for Behavior Change (Wondr) as participants have a preference for an in-person connection.
   • UI Benefits and liveWELL admin have met with stakeholders from those departments involved with the collaboration to review process improvement opportunities.
   • The evaluation framework includes reviewing de-identified claims data from Wellmark and clinical data from Population Health at UI Health Care.  The Population Health report to be shared with this group at a future meeting will include chronic conditions, medications, adherence to appointments and prescription renewals.
   • 15 of the Big 10 schools were surveyed in the summer of 2025 to determine their approach towards GLP-1 drug coverage. There were seven schools who covered GLP-1s for weight loss, but two were stopping the coverage soon due to cost. The others were not covering.
   • Issues for consideration include looking at the financial sustainability which includes volume of drugs needed, cost of the GLP-1s, and rebate impact.
   • There is an ever-changing marketplace for GLP-1s – injection vs. pills, direct from manufacturer vs pharmacy fill, and recent Federal Government announcement.
   • Looking at our pilot program, the considerations include clinical access (need more than 5 providers), step therapy & authorizations, deprescription pathway, plan design vs. coverage by exception, behavior modification (impacting eligibility criteria).
   • A question from the group was will there be data on behavior modification including actual behavior change which matters for long time effect?   There was some resistance from participants regarding the requirement that they complete Wondr Health behavior modification program.    It was suggested a question be asked in the Satisfaction Survey to have participants rate Wondr Health on a scale of 1-10.
   • Another question was asked by the group as to how much time is being spent managing the pilot program?  It seems it would not be feasible for this same type of program to be offered to more employees.  More automated workflows would be needed.  And what would this look like financially if program participant numbers were to grow?
   • A last question was asked about behavior and life history – and what may be contributing to someone’s obesity?   As issues are identified, a referral to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is offered.
   • Joni will come back to the group in February with date for this group.

4. Open Enrollment Update – Olson
   • Open enrollment is from October 31 – November 14, 2025.
   • Announcement email to eligible Faculty, Staff and House Staff was sent on October 31.  The email included information on plan changes, 2026 premium rates and FSA limit changes.
   • Annual Open Enrollment web page has helpful information including a 2026 Benefits Enrollment Guide and Health Plan Comparison in English, French and Spanish.
   • A one-week reminder email was sent today November 7, and another final email reminder will be sent next week.
   • Preliminary results of open enrollment will be shared with this group in December and final results will be shared in February 2026. 

5. Voluntary Benefits Implementation – Olson
   • Voluntary Short Term Disability through MetLife will be offered to benefits eligible Faculty, Staff and House Staff during an initial enrollment period and ongoing to new hires.
   • Employees will choose the level of coverage they wish in $100 increments starting at $400 up to $5,000,  not to exceed 60% of salary.
   • The employee will pay the full cost of the age-rated premium with after-tax monies, but the ST disability benefit will be non-taxable.
   • Voluntary Pet Insurance through Nationwide will also be offered to benefits eligible Faculty, Staff and House Staff.
   • Employees may choose between insurance and a discount program.  
   • The employee will pay the full cost of the premium with after-tax monies.
   • Targeted implementation is Spring 2026 for both voluntary benefits.
   • Information regarding the new voluntary benefits available in the spring of 2026 will be noted in the University Benefits annual December year-end reminder email.   

6. Access Metrics – Troester
   • September 2025 Access Metrics shared from UI Health Care.
   • Primary Care Breakdown was shared including stats from Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Ob-Gyn, Pediatrics, Peds Associates.
   • Secondary Care Access was shared including stats from Dermatology, DDC, Heart & Vascular, Hospital Dentistry, Ophthalmology, and Psychiatry.
   • Members should contact Rebecca Olson or Joni Troester if they have access issues.

   • UI Health Care will provide an update on the UI Health Care emergency rooms in December. 

      

7. Motion to adjourn:
   • Chuck Wieland motioned to adjourn.
   • Richard Peter seconded.
   • Committee unanimously approved adjournment

Next Meeting

December 5, 2025 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. via Zoom

DRAFT FRIC Meeting Minutes
October 3, 2025
Zoom Meeting
1130 AM to 100 PM

Members present: Julie Urmie*, John Laverty*, Josey Bathke, Mary Charlton, George Hospodarsky, Daniel Katz, Cormac O’Sullivan, Anand Vijh, Matthew Watson, Richard Peter, Michael Weaver, Anya Prince, Angela Spears
*Co-chairs
Members absent: Chuck Wieland

Administrative Liaisons present: Joni Troester, Rebecca Olson

Visitors present: Julie Sexton, Audrey Haddy, James Jorris, Jessica Wade, Megan Threlkeld, Justin Frase, Erin Litton, William Silverman, Ana Diaz-Arnold, Jennifer Miller

1. Introductions and Roll Call– Urmie and Laverty
   • Roll call taken and quorum established.
2. Approval of September 5, 2025 meeting minutes – Urmie and Laverty
   • Daniel Katz motioned to approve the minutes.
   • Michael Weaver seconded.
   • Committee unanimously approved.
3. UI HC/Medical Campus Downtown – Jennifer Miller
   • Updates on Operating Statistics, Areas of Care, and Achievements.
   • Our Focus: Year 2 includes expand access to care, invest in people and facilities, and capital updates. Continue the important effort of effective communication and collaboration.
   • Good conversation and questions based on information shared.
   • Question about coverage under UIChoice/UISelect specific to Level 2/Level3 providers practicing at MCD (examples include Radiology and Pathology). Are their claims not being paid at Level 1? University Benefits working with UI Health Care to pay as in-network, on a case-by-case basis.  All of Anesthesia providers are Level 2. This issue is currently being reviewed at UI Health Care.
   • Question about transfers from MCD to Main Campus and if there are any issues?  Transfers not as fast due to use of one ambulance service. Great collaboration between different UI hospitals. Approximately 5-8 transfers/day.
   • Suggestion to consider adding representatives to Shared Governance groups from the other UI Health campuses, so they have an opportunity for input, etc.
   • Reminder that FRIC is open meeting so visitors can attend.
4. Open Enrollment Planning Update – Olson
   • Open enrollment this year will be October 31 – November 14.
   • Updates on Annual Open Enrollment for 2026 Benefits, including new Health Care and Dependent Care FSA limits for 2026.
   • Preview to new premium rates and plan changes emailed to eligible faculty and staff on Oct 7th.
5. Retirement Plan Modernization – Troester
   • Updates on this initiative shared including responsiveness from TIAA and website traffic.
   • Positive feedback received during the process.
   • Consultation always available with TIAA financial consultants and employees can make changes at any time, however changes won’t be retroactive.
6. Vaccinations – Troester
   • Updates on flu and COVID vaccines this fall.
   • Confirmed the UI health plans cover each vaccine as preventive care.
7. Secure Act 2.0: Changes for 2026 – Olson
   • Updates on changes to age 50+ catch-up rules that impact both the VRSP and 457(b) retirement plans for 2026.
   • Higher wage earners eligible for age 50+ catchup will be limited to Roth catchup contributions started Jan 1, 2026 and ongoing.
   • Small group of participants will be impacted for Jan 1, 2026. University Benefits will send a targeted email to the group this fall.
8. Access Metrics – Troester
   • August 2025 Access Metrics shared from UI Health Care.
   • Primary care access metrics include Urgent Care and Quick Care. Need to look at separately to determine their true access rate since there are concerns with members having issues.
   • Ask UI Health Care to run primary care stats with designated a PCP.
   • Committee shared they are concerned about ER and Urgent Care.
   • UI Health Care will provide an update on the UI Health Care emergency rooms this December.
   • Members should contact Rebecca or Joni if they have access issues
   • No vote needed
9. Motion to adjourn:
   • Cormac O’Sullivan motioned to adjourn.
   • Mary Charlton seconded.
   • Committee unanimously approved adjournment.

Next Meeting
November 7, 2025 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. via Zoom
 

DRAFT FRIC Meeting Minutes

September 5, 2025

Zoom Meeting

1130 AM to 100 PM

Members present: Julie Urmie*, John Laverty*, Josey Bathke, Mary Charlton, George Hospodarsky, Daniel Katz, Cormac O’Sullivan, Anand Vijh, Matthew Watson⁺, Chuck Wieland^, Richard Peter, Michael Weaver, Anya Prince, Angela Spears

*Co-chairs; ⁺Minutes

Members absent: none

Administrative Liaisons present: Joni Troester, Rebecca Olson

Visitors present: Cheri Smith, Julie Sexton, Kara Wright, Jessica Wade, Cheryl Reardon, Justin Fraase, Erin Litton, Audrey Haddy, Neda Barrett, James Jorris, Melissa Twait

1. Introductions and Roll Call– Urmie and Laverty
   • Roll call taken and quorum established
2. Approval of August meeting minutes – Urmie and Laverty
   • Chuck Weiland motioned to approve the minutes
   • George Hospodarsky seconded
   • Committee unanimously approved
3. Health Alliance Retiree Health Coverage – Olson
   • Olson provided an update on the upcoming retiree open enrollment plans for the Health Alliance retirees who lose health coverage at the end of the year
   • Guaranteed Issue Rights for retirees which means insurance company must sell them a policy and cover any pre-existing conditions without charging higher premium
   • Open enrollment runs Oct 15 – Dec 7 (the CMS Medicare open enrollment)
   • University Benefits partnering with local Senior Health Insurance Information (SHIIP) office to provide customized open enrollment educational sessions (in-person, ZOOM, and taped webcast) for this group
   • No vote needed
4. Voluntary Benefits Implementation - Olson
   • Olson provided update on two new voluntary benefits
   • Employees will be offered opportunity to select
     1. MetLife short term disability
     2. Nationwide pet insurance (also offers a separate discount program option)
   • Implementation discussions with vendor have just started
   • Target Q1 2026 roll-out
   • More specific information will be share in October meeting
   • No vote needed
5. Retirement Plan Modernization – Troester
   • Troester provided update on project activity over the last month
     1. Email and USPS distribution of transition guide and investment guide materials on August 4^th
     2. Webinars week of August 11^th (approximately 510 participants)
     3. On campus seminars week of August 18^th (approximately 120 participants)
     4. One-on-one financial consultant sessions August 8^th through end of September; high demand for TIAA’s Coralville office
   • Sept 5^th plan changes were implemented
   • Overall campus response
     1. Positive feedback on education and counseling sessions
     2. Participant engagement good for those who attended webinar and seminars
     3. Strong positive feedback on employee value of our retirement benefits
   • No vote needed
6. GLP1 coverage for Sleep Apnea - Troester
   • Troester reviewed current UI Health Plan use of GLP1s
     1. Diabetes
     2. Cardiovascular disease (Wegovy) as of August 2024 if plan member meets specific Wellmark drug policy criteria
     3. Weight loss – special 2-year pilot program currently in process
   • FDA approved use of GLP1 (Zepbound) for sleep apnea early in the year
     1. Wellmark insured plans decided not to cover
     2. UI Health plans will not cover for CY2026
   • No vote needed
7. ACO Shared Savings – 2024 Results - Troester
   • Troester presented 2024 ACO Shared Savings results for UI Health Plans
   • Savings help reduce overall plan costs  
   • 30% shared savings to UIHC (approximately $523k)
   • No vote needed
8. Access Metrics - Troester
   • Troester presented Access Metrics through July 2025
   • Negative trends continue to persist
   • No vote needed
9. Motion to adjourn:
   • Chuck Weiland motioned to adjourn
   • Seconded by Mary Charlton
   • Committee unanimously approved adjournment

Next Meeting

October 3rd from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. via Zoom

• Presentation by Jennifer Miller – MCD Update

DRAFT FRIC MEETING Minutes

August 6, 2025

Zoom Meeting

1200 PM

Members present: Julie Urmie*, John Laverty*, Josey Bathke, Mary Charlton, George Hospodarsky, Daniel Katz, Cormac O’Sullivan, Angela Speers, Anand Vijh, Matthew Watson, Chuck Wieland⁺

*Co-chairs; ⁺Minutes

Members absent: Richard Peter, Michael Weaver, Anya Prince

Administrative Liaisons present: Joni Troester, Rebecca Olson

Visitors present: Dana Stafford, Cheryl Reardon, Cheri Smith, Erin Litton, Audrey Haddy

1. Introductions and Roll Call – Urmie and Laverty
   • Roll call taken and quorum established
2. Approval of May meeting minutes – Urmie and Laverty

• Chuck Wieland motioned to approve the May 2025 minutes
• Matthew Watson seconded
• May 2025 minutes as amended were unanimously approved

3. CY2026 Retiree Health Rates – Information Only
   • Proposed rates presented to FRIC Committee
   • Members asked questions to Troester and Olson on information of proposals presented
   • No vote needed
4. CY2026 Dental Rates – Discussion
   • Troester presented dental plan rate proposal to committee
   • Members asked questions to Troester and Olson on information of proposal presented

• Chuck Wieland made motion to approve CY 2026 proposed dental rates
  • Seconded by Julie Urmie
  • Committee unanimously approved proposed dental rates for CY 2026

5. CY2026 Health Rates – Discussion
   • Troester presented health plan rate proposals to committee
   • Members asked questions to Troester and Olson on information of proposals presented
   • Chuck Wieland made motion to approve CY 2026 proposed health rates
   • Seconded by George Hospodarsky
   • Committee unanimously approved proposed health rates for CY 2026
6. Tentative Timeline for Rate Approvals – Troester
   • Troester presented a timeline for Board of Regents approval of CY benefit rates
7. Motion to adjourn:

• Chuck Wieland motioned adjourn
• Seconded by Julie Urmie
• Committee unanimously approved adjournment

Next Meeting

September 5^th from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. via Zoom