Post-Open Enrollment: Tips for a successful transition
The benefits you elected during Open Enrollment go into effect on Jan. 1, 2025.
Here are some recommended actions to help you prepare:
Be on the lookout for new ID and debit cards (if you changed plans)
Expect a new ID card in the mail if you’ve changed medical plans or enrolled in the Kaiser HMO for the first time. You can also access a digital ID card on the Aetna or Kaiser portal beginning Jan. 1. Please note: if did not change plans, you will not receive a new card. Also, dental and vision plans do not issue physical cards. Instead, you can access these online.
If you enrolled in a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for the first time, you will receive a debit card in the mail from Fidelity by Jan. 1.
Find new providers if needed
If you switched medical plans or enrolled in a Stanford medical plan for the first time, you may need to find a new doctor, especially for primary care.
For Kaiser HMO, visit kp.org to select a primary care physician (PCP).
For Aetna, you can search for preferred and other in-network providers based on the plan you selected:
- ACA Basic HDHP or Stanford Choice High Deductible Health Plan: Search the Aetna Choice Network
- Stanford Select Copay Health Plan: Search the Aetna Select Network
If you elected the Stanford Select Copay Health Plan or Stanford Choice High Deductible Health Plan, remember to use Maximum Savings providers for lab work, imaging, and physical therapy for a lower cost than other in-network or non-network providers and facilities. Check out the "Where to Go for Care" video on the Aetna Maximum Savings Guide landing page to help you find a provider. You can also call Aetna member services at 833-971-4583 for assistance.
Manage your medications
If there are any changes to the prescription drug formulary for 2025 Aetna will notify you in advance and include drug alternatives you may consider with your provider. The formulary can change during the year as new drugs, generic alternatives or biosimilars become available. You can find prescription drug information when you log into Aetna’s member site.
Schedule preventive care visits
Annual physicals, dental checkups, and vision exams often book up quickly. Call now to schedule your preventive care appointments for 2025 to avoid delays. Remember that as long as you stay in-network, preventive care is covered 100%. Visit the Preventive Health Screenings page for a list of screenings by age.
Review your coverage for planned procedures
If you have any planned medical procedures in early 2025, confirm that these procedures will be covered and get any pre-authorizations needed from your provider. Contact Aetna or Kaiser to understand your expected costs.
Use remaining FSA funds by Dec. 31
You have until Dec. 31, 2024, to use your remaining 2024 health care and dependent care FSA funds. While you may submit claims for reimbursement through April 30, 2025, all services must be received by Dec. 31, 2024, to be eligible for reimbursement.
Keep in mind that you may carry over up to $640 in unused 2024 health care FSA funds to 2025. Rollover funds will be automatically added to your account with Fidelity in May 2025 — no action is required.
Note: Any unused dollars from your dependent care FSA will be forfeited after Dec. 31, 2024, per IRS rules.
Explore your Stanford benefits
Take time to understand the benefits and employee programs available to you throughout the year, including mental and emotional health resources and the BeWell program, to improve your well-being.
