SUBJECT:  A Message from President Atkinson - UC Health Plan Update

For your information, a message from President Atkinson is included below regarding important changes in the health care industry and what they may mean for the University and for you.

Questions concerning this message may be directed to the Bencom Web site at: http://www.ucop.edu/bencom/news/hc_index.html

                                                Steven W. Relyea
                                                Vice Chancellor -
                                                Business Affairs

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A MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT ATKINSON

MEMBERS OF THE UC COMMUNITY

Dear Colleagues:

As I am sure you are aware, the health care industry in California and throughout the nation is undergoing some significant changes. These changes are affecting the range of health plan options that employers can offer and increasing the prices that employees must pay for health benefits. The Office of the President wants to keep you informed about these important changes and what they may mean for the University and for you.

We have established a special section on the UCOP Bencom Web site for this purpose, and you can access it at http://www.ucop.edu/bencom/news/hc_index.html. We also will publish a variety of electronic and print communications over the coming months as we finalize our health plans for next year.

I encourage you to visit the Bencom Web site and return to it periodically for updates on this important topic, so that you may make informed decisions about your health benefits.

                                                Fiat Lux,

                                                Richard C. Atkinson
                                                President