Suffolk Reporter

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine has announced that the County has successfully reached an agreement with the Suffolk Coalition of Public Employees (SCOPE) to extend health care benefits for employees, resulting in significant cost savings for taxpayers. Romaine emphasized the importance of the agreement, stating, “This agreement is significant to our taxpayers as we achieve significant cost-savings in the amount of $100 million.”

Louis Civello, SCOPE President, commended Romaine's efforts, stating, “County Executive Romaine is giving a master class in good government. He was able to save county taxpayers tens of millions of dollars, retain senior employees, and improve healthcare for all county workers.”

The agreement will maintain the terms and conditions of the SCOPE agreement from May 2019 while introducing modifications aimed at encouraging employee retention and recruitment, particularly among seasoned members of the County workforce. Beginning January 1, 2025, the County will transition its Employee Medical Health Plan (EMHP) third-party administrator services to Aetna, resulting in $100 million in program savings and expanded in-network providers for employees.

Effective July 1, 2024, primary care physician copays for employees will be reduced from $25 to $20. Furthermore, the agreement includes various enhancements such as coverage for durable medical equipment and medical supplies provided in-network at 100%, reduced restrictions on pre-authorization and certification of care, and capped member premium contributions.

Employees retiring on or before December 31, 2028, will also benefit from reimbursement for the cost of Medicare Part B, including IRMAA. This comprehensive health care agreement not only ensures cost savings for the County but also enhances benefits for employees, demonstrating a commitment to both fiscal responsibility and employee well-being.