Guidance Underscores Differences Among Plans

OPM added that in past years some agencies have invited outside dental and/or vision plans to open season events, but “with the introduction of FEDVIP this year, we urge you to limit your invitations to FEDVIP plans only. To do otherwise will confuse employees as to which plan is or is not part of FEDVIP, and risk the successful implementation of this program.” The guidance to agencies noted that only premiums for FEDVIP coverage will be eligible to be taken pretax from salary and that only FEDVIP plans “offer full appeal rights and other OPM protections.” OPM recently awarded contracts to seven carriers for dental benefits and three for vision benefits; some of carriers will be regional, not national.