The Millcreek School Board approved a change to its health insurance network in a 7–2 vote, transitioning from Blue Cross Blue Shield to the third-party administrator Meritain. Officials emphasized that any staff member who has seen an in-network provider under Highmark within the past 12 months will continue to be covered.
Dr. Joseph Jablonski, the district’s Director of Human Resources, noted that the decision followed extensive research into the potential impacts of the change.
Dozens of teachers at the School board meeting expressed concerns about moving to an Aetna network. According to Millcreek School District Union President Ryan Bickel, a majority of surveyed staff opposed the change, citing worries about continuity of care and long-term effects on their families.
Millcreek Township School District President Gary Winschel stated that there will be no changes to deductibles or co-pays and estimated that the switch could save the district approximately $1 million annually. The savings, he said, will help address a projected budget deficit and support classroom resources.
Teachers’ contract negotiations are set to begin January 1, and Union President Bickel noted that board decisions made now could influence those discussions.