Kaiser HMO

New for 2026

Employee premiums will change for more equity across plans, with increased costs for Kaiser HMO

In the past, UC covered a larger share of the total cost for Kaiser HMO compared to other plans with similar benefits. Beginning next year, UC is balancing employee premiums across similar health plans. UC will pay roughly the same percentage of total premium costs for Kaiser HMO as they do for UC Blue & Gold HMO. Premiums for some members of Kaiser HMO will increase. 

Premiums for represented employees will be implemented consistent with applicable collective bargaining agreements and the law. 

A new option for Washington Center employees

Washington Center employees can choose the new Kaiser Mid-Atlantic HMO plan at the same monthly premium cost as Kaiser CA HMO.

Coverage for weight loss medications will be more limited

Coverage of medications such as GLP-1s for weight loss will be limited to individuals with a body mass index of 40 or above. Some exceptions may be possible for those continuing a course of treatment. UC medical plans will continue to cover GLP-1 medications for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. Please see your plan documents for details.

HMO plan coverage for infertility services and prescriptions will expand

As mandated by California state guidelines, coverage for Kaiser CA HMO and UC Blue & Gold HMO will include up to three completed oocyte (egg) retrievals per lifetime and unlimited embryo transfers of IVF, GIFT and ZIFT per member.

Infertility services and prescriptions will be covered at the plan-specific cost share and pharmacy tier, making them more affordable for HMO members trying to grow their families. Infertility costs will accrue to the annual out-of-pocket maximum.