The Kingfisher County Retired Educators Association met Wednesday, Nov. 2, and learned more about changes and updates concerning Health Choice Insurance for 2023.

The guest speaker was Nancy Romyak, a representative for Health Choice Insurance.

Romyak stated it’s possible to switch from one option to another each year, so no one is locked in permanently regarding one particular insurance option.

Health Choice High-Option will increase by $20 a month, starting in 2023, she said.

This is the first increase in monthly premiums in three years.

The main difference between the high option and the low option, she said, is the cost of the deductible for pharmacy.

Romyak added that Health Choice insurance is recognized in all 50 states, so members can travel and not worry about whether or not their insurance will be accepted in other states.

She also shared that new Health Choice Insurance cards will be issued in December. These cards will combine the health insurance and pharmacy into one card.

Joy Dennis, northwest district director for OREA, also spoke regarding the Nov. 8 election and the possible impact on public education in Oklahoma.

Three new members were present at the meeting: Marilyn Pickle, Sandy Cramer and Kathy Themer Kadavy.

Other members present included Donna Jech, Jneanne Kadavy, Florene Tipton, Dana Golbek, LaRita Sipe, Deborah Maehs, Mark Maehs, Nancy Teders, John Hopkins, Cathy Howard, Gladys Hopkins, Tom Arms and Trish Lemon.

The next KCREA meeting will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023, at the Kingfisher Memorial Library.

Guest speaker, Cindy Harris from Pioneer Telephone, will discuss scams and technology.

All retired public school educators and staff are welcome to attend.