Benefits
mountain with reflection in water

Boulder County Benefits

What benefits does the county offer?

Beyond competitive pay, Boulder County offers benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, voluntary benefits, contributions to Colorado PERA, wellness programs, paid vacation and holidays, an RTD EcoPass, tuition assistance, and more!

Boulder County was recently named the 8th Healthiest Employer in the Nation! We’ve been a repeat winner in the Healthiest 100 Employers every year since 2015 and we were named the Healthiest Large Employer in the Denver Metro Area for 2022 and 2023.

2025 Benefits Guide

Accessibility Disclaimer:
This webpage contains materials from external parties that may not be fully accessible. To request an Americans with Disability Act (ADA) accommodation, please email ada@bouldercounty.gov, or call 303-441-1386. View the county’s accessibility statement.

General Benefits

Emily I. Cooper, Benefits Manager, eicooper@bouldercounty.gov

Rebecca Wagner, Benefits Analyst-Leaves, rwagner@bouldercounty.gov

Steffany Hiatt, Benefits Analyst-Leaves, shiatt@bouldercounty.gov

Elizabeth Cha, Benefits Specialist-Benefits, echa@bouldercounty.gov

Danni Sanchez Garfio, Benefits Specialist-Benefits, dsanchezgarfio@bouldercounty.gov

Benefits Team Email: askbenefits@bouldercounty.gov

Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Leaves Fax: 303-441-3494

Annual Open Enrollment for all benefit-eligible employees runs from Oct. 21 – Nov. 1, 2024. Elections made during this window will become effective on Jan. 1, 2025.

Benefit-eligible employees hired after Nov. 1, 2024 must complete their enrollment within 30 days of their date of hire. Benefits for new hires will begin on the first of the month following their date of hire.

ACTION REQUIRED!

All benefit-eligible employees are required to complete an annual enrollment in Dimensions to elect or waive coverage by Nov. 1 at 11:59 p.m. If you do not participate in Open Enrollment, you will not receive medical, dental, or vision coverage in 2025.

NEED HELP?

NEW! You can sign up for a one-on-one Teams meeting with a member of the Benefits team. Appointments are available in both English and Spanish.

NEW! You can also meet in-person with a member of the Benefits team at one of our onsite Open Enrollment Cafés for technical help and answers to your coverage questions. No appointment needed. If you have a laptop, please bring it with you as we will have a limited number of drop-in computers available.

Open Enrollment Café Dates:

Cafe Schedule: Tuesday, Oct. 22, 8-5, SE Hub Blue Ribbon and View Rooms. Thursday, Oct. 24, 8-4:30, Longmont Hub Room 326. Monday, Oct. 28, 8-7, downtown Courthouse, HR Training Room (English and Spanish). Tuesday, Oct. 29, 7-4:30, Parks and Open Space Prairie Room. Friday, Nov. 1, 8-4:30, SE Hub Blue Ribbon Room.
*This café will have both English and Spanish speaking members of the Benefits team to answer your questions.

ACCESSING THE ENROLLMENT PLATFORM

Screenshot of open enrollment in DimensionsYou will complete your Open Enrollment in Dimensions. From the Homepage> On the My Benefits tile> Click on Start Open Enrollment. The system will walk you step-by-step through the enrollment process.

You can also print your current enrollments from the My Benefits tile> Click the My Benefits link at the bottom of the tile> Select Benefit Plans from the top tabs> Click on the three dots on the right to Print Benefit Plans.

Now is the time to focus on you.

You are a vital part of our success. That’s the reason we invest significantly into a Benefits Plan that helps protect your health, your income, and so much more. It’s important for you to learn about the options we offer and consider how they can help you build a secure future.

Just a few of the things your benefits help you with:

  • Managing your health and ensuring you have access to great medical care when you need it.
  • Maximizing the tax advantages of Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts.
  • Protecting your income and reducing your financial exposure from a serious illness or injury.

Take a few minutes to get familiar with the benefits we offer. Start by reviewing this enrollment guide. It’s time well spent.

The Benefits Advisory Board worked to enhance the benefits for 2025 with a focus on competitiveness, affordability, and inclusion.

  • All medical plan premiums are 6.2% lower than 2024 and vision premiums remain flat.
  • New! Menopause and perimenopause support offered through our partnership with Progyny. Members enrolled in our medical plan will have FREE access to this benefit. Plan copays and deductibles still apply.
  • New! Rightway offers a dedicated team of real, live, personal health guides to do all the doctor-finding, appointment-making, price-comparing, and bill disputing for you through a simple-to-use app. Rightway will be replacing the services provided by HealthAdvocate and Amino.
  • New! Voluntary Benefits (Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity) will now be provided by Voya (instead of The Hartford) and will feature richer benefits and lower premiums.
  • The Maintenance Choice® prescription program now includes Costco and King Soopers Pharmacies, and several independent pharmacies in addition to CVS/Target and CVS mail order.
  • New! MindCo’s virtual reality and coaching for stress relief, resilience, and tobacco cessation will be extended to include hourly employees starting on Jan.1.

Reminder: Double-Check Provider’s Network Status Before using your benefits in 2025, it is always a good idea to double-check with your existing providers to make sure that they are still participating with our insurance networks.

  • Medical – Cigna’s Local Plus network
  • Dental – Delta Dental PPO plus Premier network
  • Vision – VSP Advantage network for Base Plan and Choice Network for Buy-Up Plan
  • Prescriptions – CVS Advanced Control Formulary network.

Did you know that all of our vendors have easy access to Spanish materials, websites, and/or customer service representatives? Don’t hesitate to use their tools in your primary language!

Boulder County provides a full range of coverage that protects you financially and helps you build a secure future. We offer three types of benefits:

Employer-Paid Benefits:

You receive these benefits automatically; no enrollment is required. Examples: Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance and Basic Life Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D).

Contributory Benefits:

You select benefits based on your personal needs and pay for a portion of the cost. Examples: Medical, Dental, Vision, and Supplemental Life Insurance.

Employee-Paid Voluntary Benefits:

Additional benefits that are offered, which you can choose based on your personal needs. You pay 100% of these benefits. Examples: Critical Illness, Accident, Hospital Indemnity, Identity Theft Protection, and Pet Insurance.

Who We Cover:

Salaried employees who work 20 or more hours per week are eligible for the benefits described in this guide.

Your Dependents May Include:

  • Your legal spouse or domestic partner (regardless of gender)
  • Your children under age 26 (children may include biological, adopted, step-children, and children for whom you have legal guardianship)
  • Your children age 26 and over who are not able to support themselves due to a physical or mental disability

Members will still be responsible for their applicable individual deductible, coinsurance and out-of-pocket maximums when accessing infertility and surrogacy benefits. See section on Medical Insurance for more details.

Progyny Fertility and Family-Forming Benefit

We are excited to partner with Progyny, a leading fertility and family-forming benefits solution, to provide an inclusive family-forming benefit for every unique path to parenthood. This also expands coverage for individuals and LGBTQ+ couples that don’t have a diagnosis of infertility.

The Progyny benefit includes comprehensive treatment coverage leveraging the latest technologies and treatments, access to high-quality care through a premier network of fertility specialists, and personalized emotional support and guidance for every path to parenthood from dedicated Patient Care Advocates (PCAs). Progyny also offers a $100,000 lifetime reimbursement for adoption and/or surrogacy expenses.

To make your fertility benefit easier to use, Progyny bundles all the individual services, tests, and treatments into the Progyny Smart Cycle. Each treatment or service is valued as a portion of a Smart Cycle and expressed as a fraction, so you always know your benefit balance. The Smart Cycle is designed for comprehensive, customizable coverage and ensures you won’t run out of coverage mid- cycle.

Additionally, Progyny offers donor tissue coverage which supports those who are unable to produce their own biological tissue such as eggs or sperm. It ensures that members may use their Smart Cycle(s) in the same way they would for their own biological tissue. There isn’t an incremental cost to patients for covering donor tissue.

Progyny Smart Cycle Examples

Fertility Treatment and Preservation

As an enhancement to our family-friendly culture, the county provides treatment for fertility, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement under our benefits package. Both health insurance plans, through Progyny, cover treatment for fertility and artificial means of conceiving (i.e. GIFT, ZIFT, and in-vitro fertilization) up to a lifetime maximum of $100,000.

Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement

The county will also offer a lifetime maximum of $100,000 for the reimbursement of expenses relating to either a public or private adoption and/or for the expenses of a surrogate who is not on the Boulder County plan. For more information or to initiate services, contact Progyny at 866-960-3554.

Family-Forming Benefits with Progyny Welcome Video

12 Weeks of Fully-Paid Caregiver Leave

After completing one year of full-time employment, all benefit-eligible employees have access to 12-weeks of paid Caregiver Leave for the birth of their child, adoption of their child, placement of a child with the employee for foster care, or care of a family member. A “family member” includes immediate family members (i.e., those related by blood, marriage, civil union, or adoption), a child to whom the employee stands in loco parentis or a person who stood in loco parentis to the employee when the employee was a minor, and a person for whom the employee is responsible for providing or arranging health-or safety-related care.

Sick Childcare Subsidy Program

The county has partnered with local childcare provider, Take-A-Break, to offer subsidized in-home care for sick children when they cannot go to daycare or to school. Take-A-Break provides trained employees to care for all minor illnesses. You pay the provider at the time of service based on your monthly salary:

  • Less than $4,500: $2 per hour
  • $4,500 or more: $4 per hour

The County pays the difference between your cost and the total charge. Important– Parents need to complete an enrollment form for their children prior to utilizing the service. Take-A- Break is not able to accept an enrollment form and a request for childcare services on the same day. Please complete and return your paperwork now, so that you are able to utilize the service if the need arises. The form is available by contacting askbenefits@bouldercounty.gov.

Infants-at-Work Program

Baby laying down in crib with a big smile and a Boulder County shirt

Baby Pablo joining his mom, Nora Sáenz, in the Infants-at-Work program.

In an effort to support parents as they return to work following the birth/adoption of a child, our Infants-at-Work program allows parents to bring their infant to work with them until the child is mobile or reaches 12 months of age. Participants must gain prior approval from their supervisor, elected official or department head, and Human Resources.

We also provide equipment like Boppy pillows, swings, Pack ‘n’ Plays, and baby bouncers that can be checked out while you are participating in the program, so you don’t have to bring equipment back and forth between home and work.

To learn more or to apply for the program, contact Steffany Hiatt at shiatt@bouldercounty.gov.

The Savings Center

Our EAP, SupportLinc, provides real life savings on real life needs – child care, travel, tuition, groceries, school supplies, appliances and all those little things in life that can add up. Visit SupportLinc, create an account, and click on the Savings Center tile or call 888-881-5462. Use Employer ID/ Registration Code: bouldercounty.

Away From Home Benefits for Travel and College Students

If you are traveling or have a college student attending school outside of Colorado, in-network benefits will be available via the Away From Home network. Please utilize My Cigna or the Rightway app to find in-network providers for your location. Call Cigna at 800-244-6224 for more information.

Free Will Preparation and Estate Planning Services

Our life insurance carrier, Lincoln Financial, offers free will preparation and estate planning services under their LifeKeys program. Simply visit Guidance Resources, download the GuidanceNow mobile app, or call 855-891-3684 to get started. (First-time users enter Web ID: LifeKeys)

Gender-Affirming Care

A person standing in front of balloons smiling with hand on head and wearing fun party clothesSince 2016, our medical and pharmacy plans have provided coverage including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and gender-affirming surgery procedures.

Cigna’s My Personal Champion team also assigns both a nurse and patient navigator to make gender-affirming care as simple and easy as possible. The team works to ensure people can avoid obstacles and get the services they need, help members find providers and support groups, assist with medical claims, and provide support for social transitioning.

For more information, call 855-699-8990 Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (E.T.)

Coverage for Spouses and Domestic Partners

All of our insurances allow for coverage of spouses and domestic partners, regardless of gender or sexuality, at the same premium rates. IRS regulations require that contributions towards the domestic partner portion of premiums be counted as post-tax dollars.

Gender-Inclusive Leaves

After completing one year of FTE employment, all benefit-eligible employees have access to 12-weeks of paid caregiver leave for the birth of their child, adoption of their child, placement of a child with the employee for foster care, or care of a family member. A “family member” includes immediate family members (i.e., those related by blood, marriage, civil union, or adoption), a child to whom the employee stands in loco parentis or a person who stood in loco parentis to the employee when the employee was a minor, and a person for whom the employee is responsible for providing or arranging health-or safety-related care.

Generous Vacation Bank

Full-time FTE employees receive an 80-hour bank of vacation at the time of hire, in addition to 8 hours of both vacation and medical leave accruals each month. Vacation leave accruals increase to 12 hours per month after the first year of continuous employment as an FTE, and keep increasing based on years of employment. Part-time FTE employees begin employment with a bank of vacation leave based on the percentage of FTE, and earn vacation and medical accruals based on this percentage.

Family-Forming Options

Our benefits include $100,000 towards infertility treatment and medication, as well as $100,000 reimbursement programs for both adoption and surrogacy expenses. Learn more under the Family-Friendly Benefits section.

LGBTQIA+ Friendly Provider Search Tools

Healthcare can seem even more challenging if you’ve ever been stigmatized or discriminated against for your sexual orientation, gender, race, ethnic or religious background, or any other reason. With Rightway, know that you have a team of knowledgeable and compassionate experts who will help you find a provider to meet your specific needs. Their team is dedicated to supporting you by fostering affirmation, visibility, and access to quality LGBTQIA+ friendly care.

We know it’s important to feel comfortable with your doctor. That’s why Rightway helps you connect with LGBTQIA+ friendly providers in your network who understand your needs and create a welcoming environment. Rightway provides the latest information on coverage changes that impact the LGBTQIA+ community, such as gender-affirming care and PrEP. Their team can also help you understand your benefits and answer any questions. This service will begin on Jan. 1, 2025, and at that time we will share the QR code to download the app.

Employee Assistance Program

All employees have up to 12 face-to-face counseling sessions for themselves and their household members per issue per year. Simply call SupportLinc EAP to be paired with a counselor who meets your specific needs. Over 26% of their providers identify as LGBTQIA+, with another 60% specializing in issues unique to the LGBTQIA+ community. Their concierge approach ensures individuals only receive referrals to providers who meet both their clinical needs (clinical specialty, topic, and areas of expertise) as well as their cultural preferences (race, age, gender identity, language, LGBTQIA+ status, and more). It’s as easy as 1-2-3 to get support from your EAP program:

  1. Call 888-881-5462, counselors are available around-the-clock, 365 days a year.
  2. Visit Supportlinc for video counseling and access to thousands of articles, search engines, legal forms, and financial calculators.
  3. Download the SupportLinc eConnect mobile app for access to the EAP while you’re on the go. Registration Code: bouldercounty

Always be there financially for your loved ones.

Your family depends on your income for a comfortable lifestyle and to make their dreams a reality. You likely don’t think of a scenario where you’re no longer there for your family, but you need to ensure their future is financially secure.

Boulder County knows how difficult it can be to provide this peace of mind on your own, which is why we have made it a priority to give you the ability to assemble a Life Insurance portfolio.

Basic Term Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance

Basic Term Life:

Basic Term Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurances are offered and paid for by the county at 100% and the pay-out is 1.5 times your salary. All benefit-eligible employees are automatically enrolled in this coverage.

Accidental Death and Dismemberment:

If you are seriously injured or lose your life in an accident, you or your beneficiary will be eligible for a benefit equal to your Basic Term Life coverage. This offers an additional payout equal to the Basic Term Life coverage.

Supplemental Life Insurance

You have the option to purchase Supplemental Term Life Insurance up to $300,000 for yourself and your spouse/partner and up to $10,000 for your child(ren). Premiums will be provided at the time of enrollment and are based on your age, tobacco use, and the amount of coverage you elect.

Guaranteed Issue is provided if you enroll when you first become eligible. Employees may purchase up to $300,000 of Supplemental Life Insurance in $10,000 increments with no health questions asked. You may also elect spouse/partner coverage up to $50,000 with no health questions asked. You do not have to elect employee coverage in order to elect spouse/partner coverage, but you must elect employee coverage if electing child(ren) coverage.

Any increase to existing coverage or request for coverage amounts above the Guaranteed Issue limits will require an Evidence of Insurability (EOI) application with Lincoln. The EOI will need to be approved by Lincoln before coverage starts. If you initially turned down Supplemental Life Insurance and would like to add it now, you will also need to complete an EOI.

In addition to participating in Social Security, Boulder County also offers a 401(a) retirement program through the Public Employees’ Retirement Association (PERA). PERA provides retirement benefits for those working in Colorado’s public sector. Just by being an employee of Boulder County, you are a PERA member. Participation in PERA is mandatory and is made through payroll deductions. Each month, a percentage of your paycheck is contributed to your PERA account and the county also contributes a percentage on your behalf.

PERA has two types of retirement plans:

  • A defined benefit (also called a pension) plan where PERA invests funds on your behalf and then provides a lifetime monthly benefit in retirement.
  • A defined contribution plan where you choose your investments and then draw from your account balance in retirement.

You can now download PERA’s mobile app from the App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android). The free app makes it easy to manage your PERA account on the go. With the app, you can upload documents with your device’s camera or see account information such as:

  • Your projected monthly benefit
  • Account balance
  • Salary and service credit history
  • You can update your account information such as tax withholding and beneficiary details
  • You can submit forms and applications electronically (including your retirement application and service credit purchase application)
  • You can update tax and beneficiary information

Screenshot of the PERA app on a mobile phone and two QR codes. One to get the app on Google Play and one to get the app from the App Store.

In addition to PERA, employees are also able to elect additional retirement savings accounts- 401k and 457 Roth. Contributions to these accounts are made 100% by the employee. Note that 457 contribution elections are made directly through PERA’s website and may take up to two pay cycles to become effective. You can increase or decrease your monthly 401k contributions at any time during the year. Through Dimensions, simply search for My HR> HR Actions> Available> My 401(k) Form Update and be sure to Submit your form by the 15th of the month to be effective for that month’s paycheck.

Get more information about PERACare and/or make 457 contributions online or call PERA at 800-759-7372.

PERAPlus 401k and 457 Comparison Chart

Medical

Cigna, 800-244-6224

RX

CVS, 877-906-3802

Dental

Delta Dental, 800-521-2651

Vision

VSP, 800-877-7195

MDLive

Cigna, 888-726-3171

Provider Locator and Member Advocacy

Rightway, 866-450-6054

Discounted Medical Services

ZERO, 855-816-0001

Virtual Physical Therapy

Hinge Health, 855-902-2777

Fertility and Family-Building

Progyny, 866-960-3554

Menopause Support

Progyny, 866-960-3554

Diabetes and Hypertension

Omada/Cigna, 800-244-6224

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

SupportLinc, 888-881-5462

Stress Relief and Tobacco Cessation

MindCo, 669-322-3596

HSA

Cigna, 800-244-6224

FSA

Rocky Mountain Reserve, 888-722-1223

Life and Disability

Lincoln Financial Group, Disability: 800-291-0112, Life: 888-787-2129

Voluntary Benefits (Critical Illness, Accident, Hospital Indemnity)

VOYA, 877-236-7564

Pet Insurance

MetLife, 800-GET-MET8

Identity Theft Protection

Norton LifeLock, 800-607-9174

As a reminder, Hourly Employees are not eligible for many of these benefits; however, they are eligible for the following benefits including: PERA pension, RTD EcoPass for business and personal use, the full wellness program (free biometric screening, access to the Virgin Pulse app and partner apps, coaching, and ability to earn up to $200 in gift cards), Employee Assistance Program for themselves and their household members, paid medical leave accrual of 1 hour for every 30 hours worked, free onsite flu shots, Paid Recognition hours, Emergency County Closure pay, and access to Boulder County trainings. Additionally, beginning in 2025, Hourly Employees will also receive access to the MindCo Virtual Reality & Coaching for stress relief, resilience, and tobacco cessation support.

MindCo

MindCo Relief is a virtual reality (VR) simulated training, including customized exercises, and coaching support to teach you new habits and behaviors to cope with stress and lead a happier life. They also offer a virtual tobacco cessation program.

MindCo provides a VR toolkit, including a VR headset to hold your mobile device, a booklet, and stickers. Coaches will guide and motivate you through your journey, and coaching is provided in both English and Spanish.

The program is offered only to employees at this time, not dependents, and a smart phone is required to access the VR sessions. Starting on Jan. 1, 2025, hourly employees are also eligible to participate in this offering. Simply scan the appropriate QR code below to get started.

A QR Code for MindCo Relief Stress Management and a QR Code for MindCotine Smoking Cessation.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Just when you think you have life figured out, along comes a challenge. Whether those challenges are big or small, your Employee Assistance Program is available to help you and your family find a solution and restore your peace of mind. Beyond just counseling, SupportLinc offers legal consults, daycare discounts, referral resources for housing, elder care, pet care, education and more.

SupportLinc provides a concierge scheduling service and EAP benefits are available to all employees regardless of their hours or benefit eligibility status. You can utilize their counseling services virtually, in a group, in person, or via text.

SupportLinc EAP is just a phone call away whenever you need them. An advocate is ready to help assess your needs and develop a solution to help resolve your concerns. They can also direct you to an array of resources in your community and online tools, including an article library.

Simply call SupportLinc EAP to be paired with a counselor that meets your specific needs. Their concierge approach ensures individuals only receive referrals to providers who meet both their clinical needs (clinical specialty, topic and areas of expertise) as well as their cultural preferences (race, age, gender identity, language, LGBTQ+ status, and more). They also provide expert support for first responders and individuals experiencing secondary trauma.

You have up to 12 face-to-face sessions for you and your household members per issue per year. It’s as easy as 1-2-3 to get support from your EAP program:

  1. Call 888-881-5462 Counselors are available around-the-clock, 365 days a year.
  2. Visit SupportLinc for video counseling, as well as access to thousands of searchable articles, search engines, legal forms, and financial calculators.
  3. Download the SupportLinc eConnect mobile app for access to the EAP while you’re on the go. Employer ID: bouldercounty

Medical

Health care needs are different for everyone. That’s why our medical plans offer options so you can choose the coverage level best-suited to your needs and budget.

We offer TWO medical plans that provide comprehensive health care benefits. The Hybrid Plan is a PPO with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and the Consumer Choice Plan is a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with a Health Savings Account (HSA).

Each plan gives you access to the same LocalPlus network of high-quality medical providers. The difference is that each plan carries different premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

What’s the Right Plan for You?

Balance your monthly premium costs with what you expect to spend for medical services.

CONSUMER CHOICE PLAN

This option is great for a wide variety of medical consumers. This plan is best if you are planning on requiring regular medical care and prescriptions, if you are expecting a baby or have a surgery planned in the coming year, or if you are healthy, active, and rarely expect to use medical care. There are also hundreds of preventive medications that are covered at $0 member cost under the Consumer Choice Plan.

This plan has the lowest premiums and lowest out-of-pocket maximum, but time of service costs are higher. However, once you’ve met your deductible, your in-network care is covered at 100% for the rest of the year! You’ll also receive an annual seed money contribution to your HSA in the amount of $900 for individuals or $1,800 for families. You can use this money to help cover the deductible.

HYBRID PLAN

This option is best if you are taking an expensive specialty medication or prefer to pay a higher monthly premium in exchange for lower costs when you use your insurance. The Hybrid Plan also features the PrudentRx Copay Program that allows you to get select specialty medications at no cost to you. That means $0 out-of-pocket (OOP) for any medications on your plan’s exclusive Specialty Drug List when you fill by CVS Specialty®.

This plan has the highest premiums and highest out-of-pocket maximum, but the lowest time of service costs.

What’s Your Best Fit?

A mom, dad, two young sons and a dog kneeling down and smilingCortez Family

Typical family with some risk
Ages: Cyrus, 41; Rosa, 38; Devin, 7; and Benjamin, 5
Lifestyle: Devin and Benjamin both play soccer; Devin is an avid skateboarder
Medical Status: Rosa has Multiple Sclerosis
Financial Risk Factors: Multiple Sclerosis requires expensive specialty medications; Injury risk from sport activities (skateboarding is a very high-risk activity)
BEST FIT: The Hybrid Plan with free specialty medications under the Prudent Rx Copay Program and lower time of service costs makes sense because of Rosa’s risk factors and the chances of injury for the kids. The family can also reduce their financial risk with Hospital Indemnity and Accident Coverage.


Two twenty-something year old women smiling at the camera with their arms around each otherKelly and Diane

Planning a new addition
Ages: 34 and 31
Lifestyle: Trips to the beach, jogging, binging TV shows
Medical Status: Kelly has been diagnosed with diabetes. They are planning their first child in the coming year.
Financial Risk Factors: Increased expenses due to chronic conditions
BEST FIT: Kelly and Diane normally lean toward a low-premium plan, due to Kelly’s chronic condition and the pregnancy, and choosing the Consumer Choice Plan is the best course given that Boulder County has a support program for diabetes medications. Additionally, Hospital Indemnity Insurance would help cover some of their deductible and coinsurance when the baby is born. The county’s annual $1,800 Seed Money contribution to their HSA will also help offset their expenses during the year.


Twenty-something year old woman hiking in a line with other people looking over her back

Danielle

Young, active and healthy
Age: 26
Lifestyle: Biking, skiing, and hiking
Medical Status: Very healthy
Financial Risk Factors: High-risk activities that could lead to costly injuries
BEST FIT: Danielle can expect to spend little on medical services and take advantage of the upfront premium savings of the Consumer Choice Plan. If she’s worried about a skiing or biking injury, Accident Insurance can give her peace of mind about unexpected treatment and recovery bills. The county’s annual $900 Seed Money contribution to her HSA will also help offset her expenses during the year.

We’re excited to announce our new partnership with Rightway! With the Rightway app, you get access to personalized support, cost transparency, and expert guidance through your very own health guide. Rightway’s dedicated team of real, live, personal health guides do all the doctor-finding, appointment-making, price-comparing, and bill disputing for you through a simple-to-use app.

The Rightway app provides you with the tools to conduct your own provider searches or you can tap into the unlimited, free access to a trusted advocate who can answer your healthcare questions and take care of actions on your behalf. Rightway’s health guides have Boulder County’s specific benefits information and know how to get you the highest-quality care at the best price.

Need care? The Rightway app will:

  • allow you to search for providers based on your specific needs
  • display digital insurance ID cards
  • display pricing information and quality ratings for providers
  • provide information about some of our lesser-known benefits
  • suggest appropriate resources and benefits based on your searches

Need help? Your guide can:

  • explain your benefits coverage
  • find the best doctor for your specific needs and book your appointment
  • connect you with LGBTQIA+ friendly providers or a doctor of a specific race
  • suggest some questions to ask the doctor during your visit
  • review your symptoms and figure out next steps
  • provide upfront pricing for medical and dental visits
  • create a tailored care plan for ongoing conditions

Unexpected bill?

  • Simply upload a picture of your bill through the app and your health guide will explain the charges.
  • If something looks wrong, they’ll dispute the claim on your behalf.

Start using RightWay app on Jan. 1, 2025

Connect with your health guide through the Rightway app on your mobile phone. This service will begin on Jan. 1, 2025, and at that time we will share the QR code to download the app.

The app is also available in Spanish if the native language of your phone is set to Spanish. Their representatives are able to provide phone support in English and Spanish, and they can also utilize translation services if you need assistance in another language.

Please verify that your providers participate in the Cigna LocalPlus network. If you live outside of the LocalPlus network area, based upon your home zip code, you will be defaulted into the Open Access Plus network. If you are traveling or have a college student attending school outside of Colorado, in-network benefits will be available via the Away From Home network. Please utilize MyCigna, the Rightway app or call Cigna at 800-244-6224 to find in-network providers for your location.

Local Service Area

Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, Eagle, El Paso, Eagle, Jefferson, La Plata, Larimer, Mesa, Montezuma, Routt, Summit, and Weld counties

Hospitals and Systems

Front Range: Boulder Community Health, CommonSpirit Health (formerly known as Centura Health), Children’s Hospital Colorado, Craig Hospital, Denver Health Medical Center, HealthONE, National Jewish Health, SCL Health System/Intermountain Healthcare, UCHealth

Mountain (Eagle, Routt, and Summit Counties): CommonSpirit (formerly known as Centura Health), St. Anthony Summit Medical Center (formerly known as Centura Health), UCHealth Yampa Valley Medical Center, Vail Valley Medical Center

West (La Plata, Mesa, and Montezuma Counties): Animas Surgical Hospital, CommonSpirit Mercy Regional Medical Center (formerly known as Centura Health), Southwest Memorial Hospital, St. Mary’s Medical Center

Participating Cigna Collaborative Care Physician Groups

Designed to improve the quality of care that our customers receive from their primary care physician while delivering savings to our clients.

  • Boulder Medical Center
  • Colorado Care Partners
  • New West Physicians
  • Optum Medical Group
  • PHP Prime
  • UCHealth Integrated Network/Intermountain Healthecare/Trinsic Clinically Integrated Network

NOTE: Listings are not all-inclusive. For a complete listing, contact your Cigna representative.

Table: Comparison between the Consumer Choice and Hybrid medical plans as well as in- and out-of-network coverages

Chart showing the difference between the Consumer Choice and Hybrid medical plans

* Individuals within a family, on either plan design, are only required to meet the individual deductible and/or out-of-pocket amount

** Includes deductible, coinsurance, and copays

*** Telemedicine was temporarily allowed to be covered at 100% during the pandemic and is set to expire on 12/31/2024. If this exception is not extended, the coverage will revert back to deductible on the Consumer Choice Plan (~$60) and a $30 copay on the Hybrid Plan.

**** Female Birth Control includes Depo-Provera, Diaphragms, IUDs, Tubal Ligation, and a variety of birth control pills

Table: Employee Monthly Medical and Prescription Rx Premiums

Monthly Medical and Prescription Rx Premiums. For employees only, the Consumer Choice Plan is $42.41 and Hybrid Plan is $75.38. For the employee plus a spouse or partner, the Consumer Choice Plan is $195.09 and the Hybrid Plan is $273.03. For the employee plus child or children the Consumer Choice Plan is $174.30 and the Hybrid Plan is $245.34. For the employee plus family, the Consumer Choice Plan is $272.43 and the Hybrid Plan is $381.31.

screenshot on a mobile phone showing the zero appGet the care you need for $0 such as orthopedic surgery, spine surgery, general surgery, labs, imaging, physical therapy, and more. No deductibles, no copays, no coinsurance!

ZERO is your own Personal Health Assistant, a real person who you can chat with, call or email. Let them know what kind of care you need, and they will handle the rest. ZERO provides a network of no-cost and high-quality providers for the pre-planned services you need. Urgent and emergent services are not included in the ZERO covered services.

Hybrid Plan members pay $0 for ZERO services and procedures right away. Consumer Choice Plan members pay $0 after meeting the IRS minimum deductible of $1,650 individual/$3,300 family. If you’ve met this portion of your deductible on the CCP, you may reach out to ZERO for any additional services in the plan year.

For more information call 855-816-0001 or visit the ZERO website.

ZERO is easy to use.

Once you find out that you require imaging, bloodwork, physical therapy, or surgery simply follow the steps below:

STEP 1

Connect with your Personal Health Assistant by calling 855-816-0001 to see if the service or procedure you need is covered.

STEP 2

ZERO will help you find the health care provider who works best for you and sends the details to the provider to get your procedure scheduled.

STEP 3

You save your hard-earned money and get the care you need for $0.

Testimonial

“I have had a difficult recovery from multiple hip surgeries and prior to entering the ZERO program I was paying $50 per visit every week, which really added up. The ZERO program connected me with a great physical therapist at a convenient location and I have attended sessions all year with no out-of-pocket cost to me! I highly recommend this program.” – Karen

Table: Comparison of knee surgery expenses on both medical plans shown with and without using the ZERO program.

Chart comparing knee surgery expenses with and without using the ZERO program. The average geographical cost of knee surgery without ZERO is $27,400 and with ZERO it is $19,000 (for either the Consumer Choice Plan or the Hybrid Plan). The deductible and coinsurance on the Consumer Choice Plan without ZERO would be $2,750 and with the ZERO program it would be $1,650 IRS minimum deductible. Note that Consumer Choice Plan members can access the ZERO program only after they have already met the $1,650 minimum deductible required by the IRS. The deductible and coinsurance on the Hybrid plan for the surgery without ZERO is $1,500 plus 20% coinsurance up to max out of pocket and it would be $0 with the ZERO program. The member cost (out of pocket maximum) on the Consumer Choice Plan without ZERO is $2,750 and with the ZERO program it's $1,650.The member cost (out of pocket maximum) on the Hybrid Plan without ZERO would be $4,000 and it would be $0 with the ZERO Program.

*Consumer Choice Plan members can access the ZERO program only after they have already met the $1,650 minimum deductible required by the IRS.

If nagging injuries, muscle aches, or joint pain have you down, we have good news. You now have access to Hinge Health, a virtual physical therapy program that takes recovery straight to you — no paperwork, no travel time, and no crowded gyms. Plus, there’s no added cost to you or your covered dependents (ages 18+) to use it*, regardless of which medical plan you are enrolled in.

With Hinge Health you get:

  • Virtual PT you can do anytime, anywhere
  • Includes a full care team: physical therapist, wellness coach, and/or surgeon for applicable consults
  • Customized recovery plans to meet your needs
  • Includes women’s pelvic health, not just traditional MSK joints/pains
  • A free kit includes: a tablet, two wearable sensors that accurately measure degree of movement and provide correction for exercises in the moment
  • May include Enso wearable pain relief device (in lieu of opioids for pain)
  • Use the app for provider connection, exercises, education, and “computer vision” which tracks body movements during exercise
  • Video, voice, and chat conversations with your support team

Get started by visiting the Caremark website or the Hinge Health website.

For member support: Email help@hingehealth.com or call 855-902-2777

*This does not pertain to members who are already actively engaged in a physical therapy program. Those visits will still be subject to your plan copay or deductible. However, you can stop with your current program and start with Hinge Health to get the benefit of 100% free physical therapy.

Conditions Treated:

  • Neck and upper back
  • Shoulders
  • Elbows, forearms, wrists and hands
  • Lower back and hips
  • Pelvic floor
  • Thighs and knees
  • Shins and calves
  • Ankles and feet

Most primary care providers only receive 2-hours of training in menopause care and only 2% of OB/GYNs are considered fully trained. This can make it incredibly difficult to find an in-network and in-person provider. Starting on Jan. 1, we’re happy to partner with Progyny to provide a unique virtual care program addressing menopause and perimenopause.

Progyny offers a Patient Care Advocate, digital tools, access to the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) network of menopause specialists, and a personalized care plan. During the intake call with the Patient Care Advocate, members can request to speak with a provider that has experience with transgender care, prior cancer treatment, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), preventive menopause treatment, and more.

Progyny puts you and your health in focus, providing virtual care for all stages of menopause and all the unique symptoms that come with it. Our expert network combines evidence-based solutions with a personalized care plan so you can feel your best- utilizing a combination of hormonal and non-hormonal treatments, nutrition and weight management, sleep support, mental health care, and more.

For more information or to initiate services, contact Progyny at 866-960-3554.

Here’s what to expect:

  • Easy enrollment: Contact Progyny to get started- we’ll confirm your eligibility and get you connected to menopause experts in your area.
  • Convenient appointments: Take a quick assessment to understand where you are in your menopause journey. Book your first virtual visit within just days. Meet with specialists trained in all stages of menopause and midlife care.
  • Ongoing support: Continue your care with a team of experts who will help you through nutrition, sleep, mood changes and other impacts to your life, and grow with you as your needs evolve. Stay in touch with convenient online scheduling and messaging.
  • Clarity for this new phase of life: Dive deeper into educational articles and content to better understand and navigate the road ahead.

Partnering with you to treat and manage your symptoms:

  • Weight fluctuations
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Brain fog
  • Fatigue
  • Joint pain
  • Hot flashes

Hormonal Treatment for Men

Progyny also provides medical care for members experiencing male infertility, who need treatment for hormonal irregularities (including low testosterone), and who are experiencing issues around sexual health, including ejaculatory and erectile dysfunction. These evaluations can also assist with adjacent medical issues such as prostate cancer.

*This program is effective 1/1/2025 and available to employees and their covered spouse or partner enrolled in an eligible medical plan. Services are subject to your financial responsibility, which may include a deductible, coinsurance, copay, and/or out-of-pocket maximum depending on your medical plan.

The Oncology Clinical Consult service identifies patients with a cancer diagnosis who are likely to benefit from a second expert oncologist review of their case. It works by matching their primary oncology physician to a National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) designated, or National Cancer Institute (NCI) affiliated, oncologist who specializes in the patient’s cancer type. The oncologist will review the case and diagnosis, provide testing, and therapy recommendations.
As a patient, if you have a diagnosis and/or are undergoing treatment likely to benefit from the program then you may receive a call from eviCore asking for your consent to allow your provider access to this service. This program is designed to ensure that, as the patient, you receive the correct diagnosis, best treatment, and optimal outcome.

Omada is a digital care program that empowers Cigna members and adult dependents to achieve their health goals through sustainable lifestyle change. Whether you are looking to get healthier, reduce your risk of chronic disease, or manage your diabetes and/or high blood pressure, Omada is here to help – all at no cost to you.

What you get with Omada:

  • A plan built around you
  • Dedicated health coach & care team
  • The right smart devices to fit your individual needs, including a cellular-scale, a blood glucose meter (plus unlimited test strips and lancets), a blood pressure cuff, and/or continuous glucose monitors (CGMs).*

Do what works for you

Omada will help you figure out the healthy habits and routines that work for you—motivation included.

24/7 access to support

From weekly lessons to online community, get all the tools you need to face any challenge head-on.

You decide what “healthy” means

Try new things you actually enjoy, rather than avoiding foods you “can’t eat” or things you “shouldn’t do.” If you or your adult dependents are at risk for type 2 diabetes or heart disease or living with diabetes or high blood pressure, Boulder County will cover the entire membership cost. Visit the Omada website to see if you’re eligible by taking a short assessment.

Diabetes Medications

In addition to the Omada program, the CVS Health pharmacy benefit includes $0 cost diabetes medications. For more information on pharmacy benefits, visit the CVS Caremark website or contact CVS customer support at 877-906-3802.

*CGMs require an eligible smartphone and prescription. Omada will work to fulfill the prescription on your behalf upon enrollment into the program. Two 14-day sensors are provided through the duration of the program.

Healthcare that is there for you when and where you need it, with convenient and affordable virtual care from MDLIVE. Cigna has partnered with MDLIVE to offer a suite of virtual care options, available by phone or video, on a flexible schedule that works for you.

IMPORTANT NOTE – During the pandemic, the IRS temporarily allowed telemedicine to be covered at 100% to expedite the adoption and awareness of this virtual service in lieu of in-person doctor visits. This legislation is set to expire on Dec. 31, 2024. If this legislation is not extended, the coverage will revert back to pre-pandemic coverages of deductible on the Consumer Choice Plan (~$60) and a $30 copay on the Hybrid Plan.

To access MDLIVE, login and click on “Talk to a doctor” or calling MDLIVE at 888-726-3171. You can also download the MDLIVE app from the App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android).

Common Uses for MDLive:

Primary Care

Preventive care, routine care, and specialist referrals (Appointments within 2-5 days)

  • Preventive care checkups/wellness screenings available at no additional cost to identify conditions early.
  • Prescriptions available through home delivery or at local pharmacies, if appropriate.
  • Receive orders for biometrics, blood work, and screenings at local facilities.
Urgent Care

On-demand care for minor medical conditions (Wait 10 minutes or less)

  • On-demand 24/7/365, including holidays.
  • Care for hundreds of minor medical conditions.
  • A convenient and affordable alternative to urgent care centers and the emergency room.
  • Prescriptions available, if appropriate.
Therapy

Appointments in 1-2 days

  • Talk therapy coping strategies
  • A convenient option from the comfort and privacy of your home
Psychiatry

Appointments in 2-3 days

  • Assessment and support for mental health issues with medication management
Dermatology

Responses within 48 hours

  • Dermatology assessments via secure messaging
  • Receive a treatment plan within 48 hours

Preventive Care Office Visits – Such as routine physicals including well-baby, well-child, and well-person annual exams

Mammogram – Covered every 1-2 years for women ages 40 and older

Colonoscopy – Preventive colonoscopy covered once every 10 years

Cologuard® – Preventive Cologuard® covered every 1-3 years

Immunizations – Routine immunizations are covered under preventive care per the CDC schedule

Prescription And Over-The-Counter Tobacco Cessation Products – Prescription is needed for tobacco cessation medications to be covered with no copay.

Recommended Exams:

  • Physical Exam
  • Dental Exam
  • Prostate Exam
  • Influenza Vaccine (Flu Shot)
  • Eye Exam
  • Pneumonia Vaccine
  • Shingles Vaccine
  • Fecal Occult Blood Test
  • Prostate Specific Antigen Test
  • Colonoscopy
  • Osteoporosis Screen
  • Pap Test
  • Mammogram

Prescription coverage is included in your medical plan choice. Your prescription plan details are as follows:

Prescription Drug Advanced Control Formulary

Our prescription drug plan utilizes CVS/Caremark’s Advanced Control Formulary list. The list represents a summary of covered medications within select therapeutic categories. This can assist medical providers in selecting therapeutically appropriate and cost-effective products for their patients. Additionally, this formulary encourages utilization of generics and preferred-brand medications, lowering the member-costs for these prescriptions. Visit CVS Caremark for a complete list of medications.

Free Preventive Medications on Consumer Choice Plan

The Consumer Choice Plan (CCP) covers hundreds of preventive medications for $0 member cost. These include blood thinners, medicines used to treat high cholesterol and hypertension, beta-blockers, antidepressants, anti-obesity drugs, and more. Get a complete list of free preventative medications. All other medications under the CCP will be covered at 100% after the plan deductible has been met.

Mail Order Discounts on Hybrid Plan

The Hybrid plan covers some preventive medications at 100% and all other medications are covered by copays. Members on the Hybrid plan electing to receive their medications through the convenient CVS Mail Order Pharmacy will receive 90-day supplies for the cost of 60-days (see following chart).

Maintenance Choice Must Be Used To Fill Your Long-Term Medications

The Maintenance Choice network is required on long-term, 84+ day supply, condition maintenance prescriptions. You can choose convenient home delivery through CVS mail order, or pick up your medication at CVS/Target, Costco, King Soopers, and select participating pharmacies. Use the pharmacy locator tool or call 877-906-3802 with questions. County employees should visit the intranet site for a complete list of medications. Members on the Hybrid Plan will receive 90-day supplies for the cost of 60-days.

Free Diabetes Drug Program

CVS Health’s diabetes drug solution enables clients to eliminate member out-of-pocket costs for generic and formulary-preferred diabetes drugs, while keeping plan costs in check. This solution for diabetes medications can effectively eliminate cost as a barrier, encouraging patients to fill their prescriptions and be more adherent, ultimately improving outcomes and reducing overall medical costs. Providing holistic clinical support to help members effectively manage their condition is critical to better outcomes. There’s no enrollment necessary- your diabetic drugs/supplies will cost $0 when you use your CVS prescription insurance.

Prudent RX Specialty Drug Copay Program – Hybrid Plan Only

As part of the Hybrid prescription plan, the PrudentRx Copay Program allows you to get select specialty medications at no cost to you. That means $0 out-of-pocket (OOP) for any medications on your plan’s exclusive Specialty Drug List when you fill by CVS Specialty®. PrudentRx will work with manufacturers to get copay card assistance and will manage enrollment and renewals on your behalf. Even if there is no copay card program for your medication, your cost will be $0 for as long as you are enrolled in the program.

If you currently take one or more medications included in your plan’s exclusive Specialty Drug List, you will receive a welcome letter and phone call from PrudentRx that provides information about the program as it pertains to your medication. All eligible members must then call 800-578-4403 after receipt of the welcome letter to register for any copay assistance available from drug manufacturers. You must complete this step to be fully enrolled.
Specialty medications that are not part of the PrudentRx Specialty Drug List are capped at a $200 copay on the Hybrid Plan.

Plan features for the various benefits plans.

*See full details about PrudentRx program and Specialty medications at the top of this page.

CVS Health’s diabetes drug solution enables clients to eliminate member out-of-pocket costs for generic and formulary-preferred diabetes drugs, while keeping plan costs in check. This solution for diabetes medications can effectively eliminate cost as a barrier, encouraging patients to fill their prescriptions and be more adherent, ultimately improving outcomes and reducing overall medical costs. Providing holistic clinical support to help members effectively manage their condition is critical to better outcomes. Below is CVS Health’s five-step approach to supporting those living with diabetes on their path to better health.

  1. Prevent diabetes among those at-risk and reduce progression among those with diabetes.
  2. Increase utilization of metformin as a first-line therapy.
  3. Optimize diabetes treatment regimen.
  4. Encourage earlier initiation of insulin treatment and better titration.
  5. Prevent and manage diabetes-related complications.

No enrollment necessary- your diabetic drugs/supplies will cost $0 when you use your CVS prescription insurance.

For Members Enrolled in the Consumer Choice Plan Only

Save for future medical costs and reduce your tax bill with this special savings account.

As you get older, your out-of-pocket medical expenses rise. By the time you retire, health care likely will be your largest household expense, even with Medicare. A Health Savings Account allows you build up protection for current and future health care expenses. You can contribute money to your HSA and use it any time for qualified health care expenses. The county will also help you build your HSA each year by contributing seed money in the amount of $900 for individuals and $1,800 for families. Whatever you don’t use rolls over for future years and earns interest. Better yet, HSAs provide tax advantages.

HSAs Deliver Triple Tax Savings
  1. You don’t pay income tax on the money you contribute.
  2. You don’t pay taxes on the interest you earn in your account.
  3. You don’t pay taxes when you use the money to pay for qualified medical services.
Keys to Growing Your HSA:
  • Try not to use your HSA for routine expenses. If you can pay out-of-pocket, leave your HSA funds alone so that they can grow for when you need them in the future. You can increase or decrease your monthly HSA contributions at any time during the year. Through Dimensions, simply search for My HR> HR Actions> Available> My HSA Contribution Change and be sure to Submit your form by the 15th of the month.
  • Consider electing Voluntary Benefits (Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital Indemnity) to cover big ticket expenses from unexpected serious injuries or accidents and ensure they don’t wipe away the money in your HSA. Please refer to the Voluntary Benefits section for more information.
  • Monitor your fund’s growth. Like a 401(k), your HSA funds earn interest through investments. Make sure your money is growing at an acceptable and safe pace.

In 2025, individuals can contribute up to $4,300 annually per IRS contribution limits. Boulder County seed money contribution for individuals is $900 and the maximum contribution amount for individuals is $3,400. In 2025, families can contribute up to $8,550 per IRS contribution limits. boulder County seed money contribution is $1,800 for families and the maximum contribution amount for families is $6,750. Note that total IRS contribution limits for 2025 include Boulder County Seed Money funding. Individuals 55 or older can make an additional $1,000 in "catch up" contributions.

*Total IRS contribution limits for 2025 include Boulder County Seed Money funding. Individuals age 55 or older can make an additional $1,000 in “catch up” contributions.

Reduce your tax bill while putting aside money for health and dependent care needs.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) allow you to put aside money for important expenses and help you reduce your income taxes at the same time. Boulder County offers two types of Flexible Spending Accounts — a Health Care Flexible Spending Account and a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account. Everyone is eligible for the Dependent Care FSA, but the Health Care FSA is only for members enrolled in the Hybrid plan or individuals that aren’t enrolled in our medical insurance.

How Flexible Spending Accounts Work

  1. Each year during the Open Enrollment period, you decide how much to set aside for health care and/or dependent care expenses. For a Health Care FSA, your full annual contribution amount will be available for use on your benefit effective date. For a Dependent Care FSA, 1/12 of your full annual contribution will be deposited into your account and available each month.
  2. Your contributions are deducted from your paycheck on a pre-tax basis in equal installments throughout the calendar year.
  3. You cannot increase or decrease the amount of your FSAs during the year unless you experience an IRS-defined Qualifying Life Event.
  4. As you incur health care or dependent care expenses throughout the year, use your FSA cards to pay for eligible expenses at the point of sale, or submit a claim form for reimbursement if necessary.
  5. Please note that these accounts are separate. You may participate in one, both, or neither. You cannot use money from the Health Care FSA to cover expenses eligible under the Dependent Care FSA or vice versa.

Use It or Lose It:

Be sure to calculate your FSA contributions carefully. The grace period to incur expenses with 2025 contributions is March 15, 2026. The funds won’t roll over from year-to-year, and you will forfeit any money left in either the Health Care or Dependent Care accounts after the May 15, 2026 claims submission deadline.

How Can the Money be Used?

Health Care FSA Eligible Expenses:

Deductibles, copays, prescription and over-the-counter drugs, medical equipment, etc.

Dependent Care FSA Eligible Expenses:

Babysitters, daycare, day camp, elder care, home nursing care, etc. A dependent receiving care must be a child under the age of 13, or a tax dependent unable to provide for their own care, who resides with you. Care may be provided by anyone other than your spouse/partner or your children under the age of 19. Expenses for schooling, kindergarten, over-night care, and nursing homes are not reimbursable.

View a complete list of FSA and DCFSA covered expenses.

Important Note: If you are currently enrolled in the Health Care FSA and will open an HSA for next year, be sure to use any remaining Health Care FSA funds by Dec. 31, 2024 in order to avoid tax consequences.

The maximum annual contribution for 2025 for a Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts is $3,300. For Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts is is $5,000 ($2,500 if married and filing separate tax returns).

* The IRS issues new FSA maximums each year in late October or November. The maximum of $3,300 represents the projected increase for 2025. If you elect the full $3,300 and the IRS issues a new maximum that is lower than this amount, your election will need to be edited to reflect the 2025 IRS maximum. HR will contact you before making any adjustments to your election.

Dental

Boulder County offers two dental coverage plans through Delta Dental. Both plans include the Right Start 4 Kids Program, which provides dental coverage for children up to age 13, covered at 100% by the plan with no deductible when in-network providers are utilized, and the Dental Prevention First Program, where preventive care services do not accumulate towards the annual dental maximum (ex: exams, x-rays, cleanings).

Both plans use the Delta Dental PPO Plus Premier Network. The Buy-Up Plan includes enhancements in the annual maximum, the orthodontia maximum, and coinsurance for basic and major services. Boulder County will pay the same amount per coverage tier towards the Base and Buy-Up Plans. Employees who choose the Buy-Up Plan will pay the increased cost for that plan.

Table: Comparison of dental coverage between Base and Buy-Up Plans.

Chart showing the differences between the Base Dental Plan and the Buy-Up Dental Plan.

*Preventive Services do not count toward the Annual Maximum under the Dental Prevention First Program.

What Does Prevention Dental Care Typically Cover?

Preventive care can help save you money later on procedures that are more urgent, complex, and costly.

Routine dental checkups and cleanings should be scheduled every six months. Your dentist may recommend more frequent or fewer visits, depending on your dental health history.

Professional fluoride treatments can be a key defense against cavities. These treatments have significantly more fluoride than tap water or toothpaste and take only minutes to apply.

Dental sealants go a step beyond fluoride by providing a thin coating to the surface of your teeth.

X-ray images of your mouth may be taken to better evaluate your oral health. These images provide a more detailed look inside your teeth and gums.

IMPORTANT: Non-participating providers are allowed to balance bill. Employees and/or dependents are responsible for the difference between the non-participating maximum plan allowance and the full fee charged by the provider.

Table: Employee Monthly Dental Premiums

Employee Only: Base Dental plan is $4.23 and the Buy-Up Dental Plan is $18.35. Employee plus spouse or partner is $50.74 for the base plan and $79.01 for the buy-up plan. Employee plus child or children is $45.66 for the base plan and $71.10 for the buy-up plan. Employee plus family is $71.03 for the base plan and $110.61 for the buy-up plan.

Vision

Boulder County offers two vision coverage plans through VSP. Both plans include: KidsCare, where kids up to age 18 are allowed two covered exams per year and one pair of covered glasses per year to accommodate rapidly changing vision; and LightCare, which allows the use of the frame and lens benefit towards non-prescription sunglasses in lieu of glasses.

The Buy-Up Plan includes enhancements in the expanded Choice provider network, lower exam copays, increased frames allowance, increased contact lenses allowance, and no-cost anti-reflective coating and free exams when seeing a Premier provider. Boulder County will pay the same amount per coverage tier towards the Base and Buy-Up Plans. Employees who choose the Buy-Up Plan will pay the increased cost for that plan.

Reminder: Please check with your provider each year, to ensure that they are still participating in the VSP Advantage network. If you prefer to see a doctor who is out-of-network for your exam, you can still save money by filling your prescription at an in-network location.

*Boulder County will pay the same amount towards the Base and Buy-Up plans. Employees are responsible for the additional expense for the Buy-Up plan.

Chart of vision plans

Table: Employee Monthly Vision Premiums

For employees only the Base Vision Plan with Advantage Network is $2.31 and the Buy-Up Vision Plan with Choice Network is $10. For Employee and Spouse or Partner, the base plan is $4.60 and the buy-plan is $19.94. For employee plus children the base vision plan is $4.93 and the buy-up plan is $21.38. For employee plus family, the base plan is $7.86 and the buy-up plan is $34.09.

Mental Health and Wellness

MindCo

MindCo Relief is a virtual reality (VR) simulated training, including customized exercises, and coaching support to teach you new habits and behaviors to cope with stress and lead a happier life. They also offer a virtual tobacco cessation program.

MindCo provides a VR toolkit, including a VR headset to hold your mobile device, a booklet, and stickers. Coaches will guide and motivate you through your journey, and coaching is provided in both English and Spanish.

The program is offered only to employees at this time, not dependents, and a smart phone is required to access the VR sessions. Starting on Jan. 1, 2025, hourly employees are also eligible to participate in this offering. Simply scan the following appropriate QR code to get started.

A QR Code for MindCo Relief Stress Management and a QR Code for MindCotine Smoking Cessation.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Just when you think you have life figured out, along comes a challenge. Whether those challenges are big or small, your Employee Assistance Program is available to help you and your family find a solution and restore your peace of mind. Beyond just counseling, SupportLinc offers legal consults, daycare discounts, referral resources for housing, elder care, pet care, education and more.

SupportLinc provides a concierge scheduling service and EAP benefits are available to all employees regardless of their hours or benefit eligibility status. You can utilize their counseling services virtually, in a group, in person, or via text.

SupportLinc EAP is just a phone call away whenever you need them. An advocate is ready to help assess your needs and develop a solution to help resolve your concerns. They can also direct you to an array of resources in your community and online tools, including an article library.

Simply call SupportLinc EAP to be paired with a counselor that meets your specific needs. Their concierge approach ensures individuals only receive referrals to providers who meet both their clinical needs (clinical specialty, topic, and areas of expertise) as well as their cultural preferences (race, age, gender identity, language, LGBTQIA+ status, and more). They also provider expert support for first responders and individuals experiencing secondary trauma.

You have up to 12 face-to-face sessions for you and your household members per issue per year. It’s as easy as 1-2-3 to get support from your EAP program:

  1. Call 888-881-5462 Counselors are available around-the-clock, 365 days a year.
  2. Visit SupportLinc for video counseling, as well as access to thousands of searchable articles, search engines, legal forms, and financial calculators.
  3. Download the SupportLinc eConnect mobile app for access to the EAP while you’re on the go. Employer ID: bouldercounty

Participating in the wellness program is a great way to actively manage your health and earn up to $620 a year in incentives. All employees can participate and enjoy the free wellness platform, tools, and programs available. You can also save up to $360 per year on your medical insurance premiums as an individual and an additional $60 per year if your eligible spouse/partner participates!

Complete Steps 1 and 2 by the deadline in the following chart to be eligible for premium reductions and/or gift cards in 2025. Points will reset to zero on Jan. 1 and employees will have all of 2025 to actively participate in a variety of healthy activities to earn points for quarterly gift cards. New hires need to complete Steps 1 and 2 within 90 days of hire.

  • 5,000 points- $15 gift card
  • 10,000 points- $35 gift card
  • 20,000 points- $50 gift card
  • 25,000 points- $100 gift card

That’s up to $200 in gift cards!

Register for the wellness program. Once registered, login to begin the program or through the Virgin Pulse app with your chosen email and password.

Questions? Please reach out to your Boulder County Wellness team at bcwellness@healthbreakinc.com.

Voluntary Benefits

Help minimize the financial impact that can come with an accidental injury.

Accident Insurance pays you benefits for specific injuries and events resulting from a covered accident that occurs on or after your coverage effective date*. Get a benefit payment to spend on deductibles, groceries, gas, utilities, or anything you’d like.

The benefit amount is calculated based on the type of injury, its severity, and what medical services are required in treatment and recovery. The plan covers a wide variety of injuries and accident-related expenses, including:

  • Hospitalization
  • Physical Therapy
  • Emergency Room Treatment
  • Transportation
  • Injury Treatment (fractures, dislocations, concussions, burns, lacerations, etc.)
  • If the accident happens during an organized sporting activity, the benefit amounts will be increased

*See the product brochure, certificate of coverage and any applicable riders for a list of covered accidents, along with complete provisions, exclusions and limitations.

Plan Features

  • Guaranteed Acceptance: There are no health questions or physical exams required.
  • Family Coverage: You can elect to cover your spouse/partner and child(ren).
  • Payroll Deduction: Premiums are paid through convenient payroll deductions.
  • Portable Coverage: You can take your policy with you if you change jobs or retire.

Annual $75 Wellness Benefit

This plan also includes a wellness benefit that pays $75 once per year for each covered person who takes a covered health screening test (blood test, stress test, colonoscopy, mammogram, etc…). Simply submit a claim form through the Voya Online Claims Center.

Accident Video

Accident Coverage. Employee $8.20/month. Employee plus Spouse/partner $12.86/month. Employee plus children $13.18/month. Employee plus family $17.84/month.

You can protect yourself from the unexpected costs of a serious illness.

Even the most generous medical plan does not cover all of the expenses of a serious medical condition like a heart attack or cancer. Critical Illness Insurance pays a lump-sum benefit directly to you if you are diagnosed with a covered disease or condition on or after your coverage effective date*.

You can use this money however you like. For example, you can use it to help pay for expenses not covered by your medical plan, lost wages, childcare, travel, home health care costs, or any of your regular household expenses. The benefit is not associated with your health insurance and is paid separately from any other insurance coverage you may have.

NEW! You have the option to choose your coverage amount of $10,000, $20,000, $30,000, or $40,000. You also have the option to enroll your spouse/partner at 100% of the benefit level you select. Enrolled children are covered for FREE at 50% of the benefit level you select.

*See the product brochure, certificate of coverage and any applicable riders for a complete list of covered conditions, along with complete provisions, exclusions and limitations.

Plan Features

  • Guaranteed Acceptance: There are no health questions or physical exams required.
  • Family Coverage: You can elect to cover your spouse/partner and child(ren).
  • Payroll Deduction: Premiums are paid through convenient payroll deductions.

Critical Illness Video

Examples of Covered Illnesses (Not a Complete List):

  • Heart Attack*
  • Cancer
  • Stroke
  • Sudden Cardiac Arrest
  • Major Organ Transplant*
  • Coronary Artery Bypass
  • Carcinoma In Situ (50%)
  • Type 1 Diabetes
  • Transient Ischemic Attacks (10%)
  • Ruptured or Dissecting Aneurysm (25%)
  • Severe Burns
  • Pacemaker Placement (10%)
  • Benign Brain Tumor
  • Skin Cancer (10%)
  • Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Transplant (25%)
  • Permanent Paralysis
  • Loss of Sight, Speech, or Hearing
  • Coma
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Advanced Dementia
  • Muscular Dystrophy

Covered Conditions for Insured Children:

  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Congenital Birth Defects
  • Cystic Fibrosis
  • Down Syndrome
  • Gaucher Disease- Type II or III
  • Infantile Tay Sachs
  • Niemann-Pick Disease
  • Pompe Disease
  • Sickle Cell Anemia
  • Type 1 Diabetes
  • Type IV Glycogen Storage Disease
  • Zellweger Syndrome

Rates vary based on coverage amounts of $10,000, $20,000, $30,000, or $40,000 as well as your age band and coverage tier. The following table illustrates premiums for $10,000 in coverage for employee and spouse/partner and $5,000 for child(ren) and these amounts can be multiplied by 2, 3, or 4 to account for higher levels of coverage. Dimensions will automatically display your premiums based on your age.

Chart showing critical illness coverage costs

Receive lump sum payments to help cover the cost of a hospital stay.

If you are admitted into a hospital, it doesn’t take long for the out-of-pocket costs to add up. Hospital Indemnity Insurance pays lump sum benefits directly to you if you are admitted into a hospital for care due to an illness or injury. These benefits can help offset expenses that primary health insurance doesn’t cover (like deductibles, coinsurance amounts, or copays), or benefits can be used for any non-medical expenses (like housing costs, groceries, car expenses, etc.).

This plan will pay $1,500 for the first full day of hospitalization (once per confinement, up to 8 admissions per year). Then, it will pay $200/day up to 90 days per confinement for additional days in the hospital, or $400/day up to 30 days per confinement for stays in a Critical Care Unit (CCU), or $200/day up to 30 days per confinement for stays in rehabilitation facilities, or a flat $250/year for a stay in an observation unit.

This plan has day one coverage, meaning hospital stays (including pregnancy) are covered from day one. It doesn’t matter how sick an individual is prior to having this coverage, if they are enrolled on the plan, then any hospitalization can be submitted for a claim.

Plan Features

  • Guaranteed Acceptance: There are no health questions or physical exams required.
  • Family Coverage: You can elect to cover your spouse/partner and child(ren).
  • Payroll Deduction: Premiums are paid through convenient payroll deductions.

Annual $50 Wellness Benefit

This plan also includes a wellness benefit that pays $50 once per year for each covered person who takes a covered health screening test (blood test, stress test, colonoscopy, mammogram, etc…). Simply submit a claim form through the Voya Online Claims Center.

Hospital Indemnity Video

Monthly Rates for Hospital Indemnity coverage for employees is $16.72; employee plus spouse/partner $34.63; Employee plus children $31.78; employee plus family $49.69.

Digital thieves constantly discover new ways to extract your personal information, open credit accounts in your name, sell your sensitive data on the dark web, and take over your financial accounts.

Norton LifeLock offers comprehensive Identity Theft Insurance that monitors multiple gateways into your identity and credit and alerts you of fraudulent activity.

Cover More Dependents:

The LifeLock ID Theft benefit is unlike any of our other benefits because it allows you to cover a wide range of dependents that aren’t normally eligible, including grandparents, parents, and children age 26+.

Protection Services Include:

  • Credit Reports and Monitoring
  • Court Records Monitoring
  • Bank Account Takeover Monitoring
  • Criminal Bookings Monitoring
  • Credit Application Monitoring
  • Sex Offender Monitoring
  • Real Time Authorization Notifications
  • Change of Address Monitoring
  • Child Social Security Number Monitoring
  • Full-Service Identity Restoration Services
  • Social Security Number Trace

Did You Know?

A child’s Social Security number gives ID thieves a fraudulent “clean slate.” Monitor your child’s credit report as often as your own.

Bottom half of a man and a woman holding hands with two dogs in front of them. Raising a pet can be a joyous experience but care can quickly become expensive. After all, pets are family, and it can be emotionally and financially stressful when veterinary expenses begin to stack up.

MetLife Pet Insurance is committed to helping pet parents experience the joys of parenthood by helping them cover the cost of care for a sick or injured pet. Pet insurance helps to reimburse pet parents for covered preventive and unexpected veterinary expenses for their furry family members by offering quality coverage that’s affordable and easy to customize.

Pet insurance can be added or cancelled at any time, and you are eligible for discounts when insuring more than one pet.

Get a pet insurance quote, view claim status, and more online or call 800-GET-MET8.

Transparency in Coverage Rule

This link leads to the machine readable files that are made available in response to the federal Transparency in Coverage Rule and includes negotiated service rates and out-of-network allowed- amounts between health plans and healthcare providers. The machine-readable files are formatted to allow researchers, regulators, and application developers to more easily access and analyze data.

Contact Us

Human Resources

303-441-3525
800-659-2656 hearing impaired
jobs@bouldercounty.gov

Location

Downtown Boulder
2025 14th St.
Boulder, CO 80301
Map and Directions

Mailing Address

Human Resources
PO Box 471
Boulder, CO 80306