Big changes are on the way for current and retired U.S. Postal Service workers and their families! Starting in January 2025, Postal Service employees, retirees, and their dependents will transition to a new health insurance program called the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) Program.
At Hawaii SHIP, we want to make sure you are prepared and informed about what this change means and how to access help if you need it.
The PSHB Program is a new, separate program from the familiar Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program. It was created under the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022 and is specifically designed to meet the needs of Postal Service workers and retirees.
Starting in 2025:
Eligible individuals will no longer receive health benefits through FEHB.
They will instead receive coverage through the new PSHB Program.
The program will offer similar benefits to those offered under FEHB, but managed separately through the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
No automatic transfer:
Postal workers and retirees must actively enroll in a PSHB plan during the upcoming Open Season.
Medicare Coordination:
Retirees who are 65 and older are generally expected to enroll in Medicare Part B to maintain full PSHB coverage.
New Choices:
Some plan options and networks may change, so reviewing and comparing your coverage during enrollment will be important.
Information and Updates:
Official information about the PSHB Program, timelines, and how to enroll can be found at the OPM website.
If you are a retired Postal Service worker and eligible for Medicare, Hawaii SHIP can help you:
Understand how Medicare coordinates with your PSHB plan.
Explore Medicare Part B enrollment and costs.
Compare Medicare Advantage plans if you’re considering additional coverage.
📞 Call Hawaii SHIP at 808-586-7299 or TTY 1-866-810-4379
🌐 Visit hawaiiship.org
Navigating these changes doesn’t have to be overwhelming — Hawaii SHIP is here to guide you every step of the way.
