Health and Dental Referendum

Frequently asked questions.

  • NUGSS provides its members with an extended medical insurance plan that covers health, dental, vision and travel benefits. You can learn more about what’s covered here.

  • The referendum asks if you approve of increasing the NUGSS Health & Dental Fee annually in line with market rates, up to a maximum of 20% per year.

  • High claims: Over the past 5 years, the NUGSS plan has seen a 95% increase in claims and increasing utilization. This is evident that students benefit greatly from this service.

    Inflation: The cost of health and dental plan services have been rising each year due to inflationary impacts.

  • NUGSS would be forced to make further cuts to the Health & Dental Plan coverage. This means that you would have to pay significantly more out of pocket costs when you visit the pharmacy, dentist or health clinics.

  • NUGSS would be able to increase the plan’s coverage and save students money when they visit the pharmacy, dentist or health clinics.

  • Nope! This referendum simply gives the NUGSS Board of Directors the ability to increase the Plan Fee by up to or less than 20% only if needed due to inflationary impacts and market rates.

  • Yes, if you have alternative coverage, you can opt-out and get a full refund in your tuition account.

  • You will receive an email in your student inbox on March 9th at 9am from the NUGSS President which will contain a link to vote. You have until March 11th at 8am to vote.

When was the last time NUGSS increased its plan fees?

Over the past 10 years, NUGSS has increased its Health & Dental Plan Fees only one time. In fact, for the past 8 years, the fees has remained unchanged. After 8 years, an increase is necessary in order to re-align the fees to actual plan costs, utilization and inflation.

NUGSS Health & Dental Plan fee increases over the past 10 years.

How does the NUGSS H&D Plan Fees compare to other Student Societies?

NUGSS has one of the lowest Health & Dental Plan Fees compared to its other student associations in BC. This means that the NUGSS H&D Plan Coverage is falling behind compared to others’ in the Province. By increasing fees, NUGSS would be able to increase benefits and coverage, reducing students out of pocket costs.

NUGSS Health & Dental Plan fees in comparison with other student associations in BC.

Still have questions?

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