The Insurance and Benefits Trust of PORAC (IBT) Board of Trustees has finalized the 2026 health plan rates for the Police and Fire Health Plan, following a detailed review of the ongoing trends in healthcare costs. Over the past few years, the overall cost of medical services has continued to rise, impacting the health insurance industry as a whole. This increase is attributed to various factors, including greater healthcare utilization, escalating pharmacy expenses, rising costs of medical care, and labor shortages within the healthcare sector, among others.
In response to these challenges, the IBT Board of Trustees carefully examined the health plan’s performance across different regions and for both active employees and retirees. This review included a thorough analysis of the experience in each region and a close look at the prevailing health insurance trends. While the industry has seen upward pressure on rates, the 2026 rates for the Police and Fire Health Plan remain competitive, staying lower than those of some HMO plans. Additionally, the Plan’s Special Reserves continue to be robust, ensuring financial stability and long-term sustainability.
For members who were previously covered by the Police and Fire Health Plan but are no longer enrolled, or for those who wish to make changes to their coverage, now is the time to act. The annual Open Enrollment period offers the opportunity to join, make adjustments, or update coverage. For the 2026 coverage year, Open Enrollment will run from September 15, 2025, through October 10, 2025.
| EmployeeOnly | Employee+1 Dependent | Employee& 2+ Dependents | |
| Region 1(Northern California) | $1,063.00 | $2,418.00 | $3,027.00 |
| Region 2 (Central California) | $1,057.00 | $2,127.00 | $2,708.00 |
| Region 3 (LA, Riverside & San Bernardino) | $1,057.00 | $2,127.00 | $2,708.00 |
| Out of State | $1,206.00 | $2,448.00 | $2,900.00 |
| Supplemental Plan to Medicare | $597.00 | $1,322.00 | $1,791.00 |
| EmployeeOnly | Employee+1 Dependent | Employee& 2+ Dependents | |
| California | $974.00 | $1,950.00 | $2,534.00 |
| Out of State | $1,206.00 | $2,448.00 | $2,900.00 |
| Supplemental Plan to Medicare | $597.00 | $1,322.00 | $1,791.00 |
The Insurance & Benefits Trust of PORAC remains dedicated to supporting its members and their families. With a team of dedicated professionals whose sole focus is to ensure that members receive top-tier care and service, IBT is committed to providing comprehensive insurance coverage for those it serves. Any questions regarding coverage or enrollment can be directed to an IBT Insurance Services Representative at (800) 655-6397, Option 1 for Health Plan Members.
The Police and Fire Health Plan is proud to serve over 25,000 Safety members and their families, offering one of the most comprehensive health plans available in the CalPERS system. If you’re eligible or wish to make changes to your coverage, you’re encouraged to contact your Human Resources Department or CalPERS if you’re retired and make the switch to the IBT’s Police and Fire Health Plan.
In conclusion, while the healthcare industry continues to face rising costs, the 2026 rates for the Police and Fire Health Plan are designed to remain lower than those of many other plans. With the strength of the Plan’s reserves, members can feel confident that their coverage will continue to meet their needs both now and in the future.
Featured in the September 2024 issue of PORAC Law Enforcement News.