During tough economic times for San Francisco, I have some good news to report on how POB is being an effective watchdog over our city and county retiree plans. As we monitor the San Francisco Employees Retirement System (SFERS) and San Francisco Health Services System (SFHSS), we’ve continued to rack up several noteworthy victories over the past few months that you can read in the articles below.
Your advocacy efforts paid off in finally getting United Health Care (UHC) to be accepted as an in-network provider for our UCSF family of retirees. In the past there has never been a contract. Thank you to all our members who joined with RECCSF, VPOA and CARA to call, email, and attend meetings to lobby for the inclusion. The new plan between the two groups is effective retroactively to Jan. 1, 2024 and will be part of the SFHSS UHC Medicare Advantage Plan. A special shout out to two of our directors who spearheaded the campaign: Claire Zvanski and Karen Breslin.
Looking ahead, we’re always looking for additional Directors to help guide POB. We have a stellar 26-year history of good work for our retirees, and we’re proud of our record. We have several current openings due to retirements. If you’re interested in getting involved, email me here.
Thank you to those who donate to us regularly so we can do our important watchdog work for you. If you’d like to donate to the cause, click here.
Fred Sanchez
President