Open Enrollment for the 2027 plan year runs –. This page covers important updates for 2027, including a new weight management program through eMed, continued savings at LCMC Health facilities, and changes to retirement contribution rules.
Use the information below to learn how these updates may affect your coverage, out-of-pocket costs, and retirement contributions.
For full details on your 2027 benefits, including plan options, rates, and FAQs, refer to the online Open Enrollment Guide and the Training & Resources hub.
Questions? Submit them to the HR Help Desk.
Resources & Links
- Benefits Rates 2026 (PDF) – in effect through December 31, 2026
- Download: eMed Program Flyer (PDF)
- Download: LCMC Overview Flyer (PDF)
2027 Benefits Rates will be posted here once finalized. The 2026 rates above remain in effect through the end of the 2026 plan year.
What’s Changing for 2027
1) New: GLP-1 Weight Management Program Through eMed
Starting January 1, 2027, GLP-1 medications prescribed for weight loss will be provided through eMed, a program that offers personalized guidance and ongoing clinical support throughout treatment, rather than through the standard Optum pharmacy benefit.
A $150 copay will apply. GLP-1 medications prescribed for diabetes or other diagnoses are not affected by this change and continue to be covered as they are today.
Employees currently taking a GLP-1 medication for weight loss can also move to eMed under this benefit.
Important: Registration for eMed opens . Your eMed coverage will still take effect , along with all other benefit changes selected during Open Enrollment.
A dedicated eMed webpage with more information and answers to common questions will be available soon. In the meantime, see the eMed Program Flyer for an overview.
2) Retirement: Roth Contributions & Catch-Up Rules
Tulane’s retirement plans allow pre-tax contributions, Roth after-tax contributions, or a combination of both. The regular 2026 employee contribution limit is $24,500.
Employees age 50 or older may also make additional catch-up contributions:
| Age in 2026 | Catch-up limit |
|---|---|
| 50 to 59 | $8,000 |
| 60 to 63 | $11,250 |
| 64 or older | $8,000 |
Important change: If your 2025 Tulane FICA wages were more than $150,000, any 2026 catch-up contributions must be made as Roth. If you’re already contributing, this switches automatically; no action needed. If you’re not, it doesn’t apply unless you choose to start.
To change your contributions, log in at tiaa.org, select Manage Contributions, and follow the prompts.
When your care is provided at an LCMC Health facility, you’ll receive lower deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums than the standard plan levels. This is an option for added savings, not a requirement.
Important: This benefit is based on where you receive care (LCMC facilities), not which individual provider you see.
Use LCMC Health’s Find a Doctor tool to locate in-network providers and confirm if your care is at an LCMC facility.
LCMC facilities include (examples):
- East Jefferson General Hospital (Metairie)
- Lakeside Hospital (Metairie)
- Lakeview Hospital (Covington)
- Manning Family Children’s (New Orleans)
- New Orleans East Hospital (New Orleans East)
- Touro (New Orleans)
- University Medical Center New Orleans (Mid-City)
- West Jefferson Medical Center (Marrero)
FAQs
Do I need to enroll in eMed during Open Enrollment?
No. Registration for eMed opens separately on November 30, 2026, after Open Enrollment closes. Your eMed coverage still takes effect January 1, 2027, along with all other benefit changes selected during Open Enrollment.
Do I need to do anything about catch-up contributions?
No. If your 2025 Tulane FICA wages were more than $150,000 and you’re already contributing, it switches to Roth automatically. If you’re not, it doesn’t apply unless you choose to start.
What is the LCMC Preferred Network?
The LCMC Preferred Network refers to care received at LCMC Health facilities. When you choose these facilities, you’ll have lower deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums than the standard plan levels.
Is LCMC part of Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)?
Yes. LCMC Health facilities and providers are part of Tulane’s BCBS network. Your LCMC care is covered as in-network under Tulane’s medical plans.
Do I have to use LCMC providers?
No. Using an LCMC facility is optional. You can continue receiving care from any in-network provider or facility you prefer.
What happens if I use both LCMC and non-LCMC providers?
Claims process based on where your care is received. Services at an LCMC facility receive the lower deductible and OOP maximum; services elsewhere follow the standard plan levels.
Your LCMC Tier 1 and in-network deductibles are cross-over deductibles, which means eligible payments count toward both at the same time.
How can I confirm my provider is in the LCMC network?
Use the LCMC Health Find a Provider or Find a Location tool to confirm whether your provider practices at an LCMC location. You can also search the BCBS provider directory; in-network LCMC facilities are marked with an LCMC badge.
Are Tulane Doctors part of the LCMC network?
Many Tulane doctors provide care at LCMC facilities; however, not all are directly affiliated. Confirm through the Find a Doctor tool or by contacting your provider’s office.
What happens if my provider leaves the network?
If a provider leaves the network, BCBS will notify impacted members. You can continue with another in-network provider or contact BCBS for help transitioning your care.
How are referrals handled between LCMC and non-LCMC providers?
Referrals to either LCMC or non-LCMC specialists are handled as usual through your BCBS plan. LCMC facility-based savings apply only when care is delivered at an LCMC Health facility.
Will my deductible payments transfer between networks?
Yes. All deductible and out-of-pocket payments apply across both LCMC and non-LCMC care within your BCBS network. There’s no separate deductible for LCMC facilities.