Benefits 
New “rolling” method of calculating FMLA leave effective January 2020
As part of its strategic commitment to modernize UF’s leave program for faculty and staff, UF Human Resources recently evaluated the way Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave is administered at the university. One outcome of these efforts was to align the calculation of the qualifying time period with current standard practice — from a fiscal-year period to a “rolling” 12-month period, measured from the date of the employee’s first use of FMLA leave for a qualifying event.
Competitive benefits represent one aspect of UF’s “total rewards” approach to faculty and staff compensation
As we pursue our goal of becoming one of the nation’s top-five public research universities, UF is committed to a “total rewards” strategy that encompasses not only a competitive market- and merit-based approach to pay, but also quality benefits, meaningful work and opportunities for career growth and development for our exceptional faculty and staff.
Sick Leave Pool Enrollment is open through Oct. 31
Qualifying UF employees may apply for membership in the Sick Leave Pool during its open enrollment period from Oct. 1 to 31.
Benefits Open Enrollment: Keep Current. Stay Current.
Open Enrollment for 2020 benefits will take place Oct. 14 through Nov. 1. During Open Enrollment, employees may elect or change state and UF benefits plans through the appropriate online portals. Learn more about how to prepare for Open Enrollment.
Upcoming change to state employees’ prescription drug plan
Beginning in January 2020, the Division of State Group Insurance (DSGI) is implementing formulary management in the State Employees’ Prescription Drug Plan (RX plan). Certain drugs will be excluded under the RX plan and will require prior authorization approval to be covered.
State Deferred Compensation Plan changes: T. Rowe Price and Empower no longer available
In an effort to respond to the changing retirement savings industry, provide a better value and simplify options for State of Florida employees and participants, the state has decided to decrease the number of investment providers. The Deferred Compensation Plan will not be renewing contracts with T. Rowe Price and Empower. Learn more about what you can do if you have funds at T. Rowe Price or Empower.
Update Sept. 9: HCA hospitals, including North Florida Regional, will remain in Aetna network
Aetna and HCA Florida have reached an agreement, and 49 HCA hospitals—including North Florida Regional Medical Center—will remain in the Aetna network.
Aetna, HCA Florida hospital negotiations are ongoing
Aetna is in ongoing contract negotiations with HCA Florida. If an agreement cannot be reached, 49 hospitals, including North Florida Regional Medical Center, will no longer be part of the Aetna provider network as of Sept. 6, 2019.
Updates to UF’s Sick Leave Pool
Two changes have recently been made in the administration of UF’s Sick Leave Pool.
Benefits payroll deductions resume for nine- and 10-month employees
Normal payroll deductions for health, life, optional and supplemental insurance for State and UF plans will resume on the Sept. 13 paycheck to align with the nine- and 10-month appointment pay cycle.