Benefit Buzz - September 2025

Learn more about taking care of yourself during national wellness month, understanding your cortisol levels, and medications that make it hard to handle the heat. TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF DURING NATIONAL WELLNESS MONTH National Wellness Month, recognized annually in August, is meant to encourage people to prioritize self-care, build healthy routines and support their physical, mental and emotional well-being. Wellness goes beyond physical health. It encompasses mental clarity, emotional resilience and a sense of balance in daily life. When we invest in our well-being, we're better equipped to handle stress, maintain relationships and perform at our best - both personally and professionally. This month is an opportunity to slow down and focus on the following key well-being components: Movement - You don't need a gym membership to stay active. Stretch in the morning, take the stairs or go for a walk during lunch. Movement boosts mood and energy. Nutrition - Fuel your body with whole foods, stay hydrated and avoid skipping meals. Even small changes, such as swapping soda for water, can make a big difference. Mindfulness - This skill involves focusing on being present. Try meditation apps, journaling or simply taking a few deep breaths during stressful moments. Self-care - It's important to take time each day to do something just for you. Whether it's reading, listening to music or having a cup of tea, self-care helps you recharge. Stress management - Identify your stress triggers and create healthy coping strategies. These could include setting boundaries, unplugging from screens or talking to a friend. You can start taking small steps now to prioritize both your body and mind. Over time, these habits build a foundation for a healthier, more balanced you. If you're struggling with any aspect of your wellness, seek help from health care professionals, including therapists, counselors or wellness coaches. They can provide tailored guidance and support for your personal needs. UNDERSTANDING YOUR CORTISOL LEVELS Cortisol levels continue to trend on social media as people want to understand energy levels, manage stress and boost their overall well-being. So, what exactly is cortisol? It's your body's primary stress hormone, helping regulate various functions, such as metabolism, blood sugar, blood pressure, immune response and energy. While it's normal for cortisol to fluctuate throughout the day (usually going up in the morning and slowly down during the day), consistently high or low levels can cause health issues. Ideal cortisol levels falls within a specific range that varies slightly based on the time of day and the type of test used. To get a better understanding of your cortisol levels, seek the advice of a medical professional who can administer a cortisol test that measures the cortisol in your blood, urine or saliva. Standard blood panels generally don't test for cortisol levels. Cortisol testing is usually ordered separately by a physician to learn more about your health conditions. Understanding how cortisol works can help you stay aware of potential symptoms that could indicate an imbalance. Talk to your doctor to learn more. MEDICATIONS THAT MAKE IT HARD TO HANDLE THE HEAT Commonly prescribed medications can impact people more in the heat, causing dehydration or sun sensitivity or limiting the body's ability to regulate body temperature. As such, these medications have heat intolerance, photosensitivity or similar documented side effects: Antibiotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen may make you more sensitive to sun exposure, resulting in severe sunburn or rashes. Antidepressants can cause excessive sweating, dehydration and UV light sensitivity. They could also decrease sweat production, preventing the body from cooling down. Antihistamines can make your body produce less sweat, making it difficult to regulate body temperature in hot weather. Blood pressure medications can increase sweat production and dehydration. Sun exposure can cause a blood pressure dip, too. Decongestants like pseudoephedrine can decrease the blood flow to the skin, making it more difficult to sweat and regulate. Stimulants can increase your metabolic rate, impairing the body's ability to cool down. Keep in mind that the heat can also degrade certain medications like insulin, inhalers and EpiPens. The first sign of heat intolerance is feeling hot or uncomfortable. You may also experience headaches, dizziness, cramps, nausea or vomiting, weakness or flushed skin. If you experience heat-related symptoms, go inside immediately and try to cool down. In addition to monitoring for symptoms, it's important to stay hydrated, limit your exposure to direct sunlight and wear protective clothing. If you have questions about your medication or potential side effects, talk to your doctor. Also, don't discontinue taking any prescribed medications without consulting your doctor first. This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice. Readers should contact a health professional for appropriate advice. © 2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved. Download the PDF copy here.

Learn more about the OBBB Act and the Supreme Court upholding ACA's Preventative Care Mandate. OBBB ACT INCLUDES CHANGES FOR EMPLOYEE BENEFITS On July 4, 2025, President Donald Trump signed the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (OBBB Act) into law. The OBBB Act includes a variety of changes for employee benefit plans, most of which are effective for 2026. Key changes include the following: Health savings accounts (HSAs) - Effective Jan. 1, 2026, the OBBB Act allows individuals with direct primary care (DPC) arrangements to make HSA contributions if their monthly fees are $150 or less ($300 or less for family coverage). These dollar limits will be adjusted annually for inflation. A DPC arrangement is a subscription-based health care delivery model where an individual is charged a fixed periodic fee for access to medical care consisting solely of primary care services. In addition, the OBBB Act treats DPC fees as medical care expenses that can be paid using HSA funds. Telehealth exception for high deductible health plans (HDHPs) - The OBBB Act permanently extends the ability of HDHPs to provide benefits for telehealth and other remote care services before plan deductibles have been met without jeopardizing HSA eligibility. This extension applies to plan years beginning after Dec. 31, 2024. Dependent care assistance programs (DCAPs) - Effective Jan. 1, 2026, the OBBB Act increases the maximum annual limit for DCAPs from $5,000 to $7,500 ($3,750 for married individuals filing separately). The new limit is not adjusted for inflation going forward. Student Loan Assistance - The OBBB Act permanently extends the student loan payment option for education assistance programs and adjusts the annual $5,250 limit for inflation beginning in 2027. Trump Accounts - The OBBB Act creates a new type of tax-advantaged savings account for children, named Trump Accounts, effective for 2026. Employers may make tax-free contributions to the Trump Account of an employee's dependent of up to $2,500 (as adjusted annually for inflation beginning after 2027). SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS ACA'S PREVENTIVE CARE MANDATE On June 27, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a key component of the Affordable Care Act's (ACA) preventive care mandate. As background, the ACA requires non-grandfathered health plans and health insurance issuers to cover a set of recommended preventive services without imposing cost-sharing requirements, such as deductibles, copayments or coinsurance, when the services are provided by in-network providers. The recommended preventive care services covered by these requirements include evidence based items or services with an A or B rating in the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations. The plaintiffs in this case had religious objections to the ACA's preventive care mandate and challenged its legality on various grounds, including the USPSTF's recommendations being not constitutional because its members had not been validly appointed. The lower courts agreed with the plaintiffs; however, health plans and issuers were required to fully comply with the ACA's preventive care mandate without interruption while the lawsuit proceeded. The Supreme Court reversed the lower court's decision and upheld the constitutionality of the USPSTF's recommendations. Due to the Court's ruling, the ACA's preventive care mandate remains in full effect and health plans and issuers are required to continue covering the entire range of recommended preventive care services without cost sharing. Provided to you by MFC Benefits, LLC © 2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved Download the PDF copy here. Link: http://chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://content.zywave.com/file/b6f7a224-b3a3-4409-a8f2-953f0994d66a/Benefits%20Buzz%20Newsletter%20January%202024.docx Link: http://chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://content.zywave.com/file/b6f7a224-b3a3-4409-a8f2-953f0994d66a/Benefits%20Buzz%20Newsletter%20January%202024.docx

Learn more about safe grilling tips, first-aid kit essentials and understanding the label on your sunscreen. GRILLING SAFETY TIPS Although grilling is a popular way to prepare food, it can also be dangerous. According to the National Fire Protection Association, an average of 9,000 home fires involve grills, hibachis or barbecues each year. May, June, July and August are the most active months for grill fires, with July being the top month. Some 4 million outdoor grills are used across the United States on any given summer day. Keep these 10 fire safety tips in mind when grilling: 1. Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from other objects, including your house, decks, outdoor seating and overhanging branches. 2. Set up the grill on a flat surface, and don’t bring it into an unventilated or enclosed space (e.g., garage or porch). This is not only a major fire hazard but also a carbon monoxide hazard. 3. Check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line before using a gas grill to ensure it’s not leaking and is working properly. 4. Turn off the gas if you suspect that your gas grill is leaking, and get the unit fixed before lighting it. Never use a match to check for leaks. 5. Turn off the grill and the gas if your propane grill’s flame goes out, and wait at least five minutes before relighting the grill. 6. Only use starter fluid with charcoal grills— never with gas grills. 7. Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the area until the grill is completely cool. 8. Never leave your grill unattended while in use. 9. Avoid overloading the grill, as too much fat dripping at once can cause flare-ups. 10. Clean the grates and trays regularly to remove grease and fat buildup. Not only can grills start fires, but they can also cause burns. Exercise caution as you flip food on the grill to ensure your hands and arms do not get burned. Additionally, be sure to use long-handled utensils to help keep your hands at a safe distance from the flames. Overall, practicing vigilance and taking proper precautions while grilling can help reduce fires and associated burn injuries. FIRST-AID KIT ESSENTIALS Summer is synonymous with adventure and outdoor fun. Whether exploring a park, swimming, hiking a trail or road-tripping, having a first-aid kit can make all the difference in an emergency. A well-stocked first-aid kit can help you respond quickly and effectively to common injuries. Keep at least one first-aid kit in your home and your vehicle. Consider stocking these basic first-aid kit supplies: • Bandages of various sizes • Elastic bandage wrap • Flashlight and batteries • Hydrogen peroxide • Instant hot and cold packs • Scissors • Sterile gauze pads and tape • Thermometer • Tweezers Additionally, you can stock your kit with over-the-counter items, such as aloe vera gel, antihistamines, hydrocortisone cream, pain and fever medications, and sunscreen. Ongoing, remember to check the expiration dates and make sure you haven’t used up items and need replacements. UNDERSTANDING THE LABEL ON YOUR SUNSCREEN Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Most cases of melanoma, the deadliest kind of skin cancer, are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. The sun’s rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes. While there are several steps you can take to limit your exposure to the sun, proper sunscreen selection and application are critical. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) analyzed more than 2,200 sunscreens available for purchase in 2025. The EWG report revealed that just one-fourth of sunscreens on store shelves provide safe and effective protection. Remember that not all sunscreens are created equal, so it’s about finding the one you need for the specific weather and activity. Sunscreen labels must follow specific guidelines, so here’s what they exactly mean: • Broad-spectrum protection works against UVA (skin cancer and premature aging) and UVB (sunburn rays). • SPF is the level of protection against UVB rays. Experts recommend using sunscreen with an SPF value of at least 30. • Water-resistant sunscreen needs to be reapplied, depending on the brand, after 40 or 80 minutes of swimming or excessive swimming. • Sunscreens maintain their full strength for three years but always check the expiration date . Routinely inspect your skin for any spots or changes in color or appearance. If you have any concerns, talk to your doctor. This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice. Readers should contact a health professional for appropriate advice. © 2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved. Download the PDF copy here.

Learn more about the U.S Supreme Court upholding state ban on gender-affirming care for minors and PCORI fees are due July 31,2025. U.S. SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS STATE BAN ON GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE FOR MINORS On June 18, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of a Tennessee law banning certain medical care, such as puberty blockers and hormone therapy, for transgender minors under the age of 18. As a result of the ruling, the law will remain in effect and may shape how courts and legislatures approach gender-affirming care nationwide. Tennessee’s Senate Bill 1 (SB1) prohibits certain medical treatments (such as surgery, puberty blockers and hormones) that are intended to allow a minor “to identify with, or live as, a purported identity inconsistent with the minor’s sex” or to treat “purported discomfort or distress from a discordance between the minor’s sex and asserted identity[.]” The plaintiffs alleged that SB1 violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment. The Supreme Court, in a 6-3 ruling, held that SB1 does not classify individuals based on sex or transgender status, and therefore, the law did not trigger heightened scrutiny. Instead, the Court applied the more deferential “rational basis” standard, which requires only that there are plausible reasons for government action. The Court found that SB1 “clearly met” this standard of review and did not violate the equal protection guarantee of the 14th Amendment, reasoning that the judiciary must grant states “discretion to pass legislation in areas where there is medical and scientific uncertainty.” Notably, the Court found their 2020 decision in Bostock v. Clayton County, which held that discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation constitutes sex discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act (Title VII), did not alter the analysis and declined to address whether Bostock’s reasoning reaches beyond the Title VII employment discrimination context. PCORI FEES ARE DUE BY JULY 31, 2025 The Affordable Care Act requires employers with self-funded health plans and health insurance issuers to pay Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute fees (PCORI fees). The fees are reported and paid annually using IRS Form 720, the Quarterly Federal Excise Tax Return. Form 720 and full payment of the PCORI fees are due by July 31 of each year and generally cover plan years that end during the preceding calendar year. For plan years ending in 2024, the PCORI fees are due by July 31, 2025. The PCORI fee amount is based on the average number of individuals covered under the plan. Final rules from the IRS require employers with self-funded health plans to use one of three alternative methods to determine the average number of individuals covered under the plan for a plan year: the actual count method, the snapshot method or the Form 5500 method. That number is then multiplied by the applicable rate for that tax year ($3.47 for plan years ending on or after Oct. 1, 2024, and before Oct. 1, 2025, or $3.22 for plan years ending on or after Oct. 1, 2023, and before Oct. 1, 2024). To assess their obligations, employers should: • Determine which plans are subject to the PCORI fees; • Assess plan funding status (insured versus selfinsured) to determine whether the issuer or the employer is responsible for the fees; and • Select an approach for calculating average covered lives for self-insured plans. The IRS provides helpful resources regarding PCORI fees, including a chart on how the fees apply to specific types of health coverage or arrangements. Provided to you by MFC Benefits, LLC © 2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved Download the PDF copy here. Link: http://chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://content.zywave.com/file/b6f7a224-b3a3-4409-a8f2-953f0994d66a/Benefits%20Buzz%20Newsletter%20January%202024.docx Link: http://chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://content.zywave.com/file/b6f7a224-b3a3-4409-a8f2-953f0994d66a/Benefits%20Buzz%20Newsletter%20January%202024.docx

Learn more about summer food safety tips, reaping the health benefits of gardening, and sleep tips for the long summer days. SUMMER FOOD SAFETY TIPS You'll likely spend time outside with family and friends this summer at a picnic or backyard barbecue. However, if you aren't careful about handling foods and beverages during these cookouts, you're putting yourself and others at risk for potential food-related illnesses. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 6 people get sick from a foodborne illness each year. Bacteria multiply especially fast in the summer heat, making outdoor cookouts prime breeding grounds for E. coli and salmonella. Symptoms of foodborne illnesses may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Prevent food poisoning at picnics and barbecues with these four simple steps from the CDC: 1. Clean. Wash cooking equipment, dishes and utensils between uses. Be sure to clean the grill's surface after each use and wash cutting boards after preparing raw meat. Germs can survive in many places, so washing your hands and surfaces is critical. 2. Separate . Use one cooler for drinks and one for food. It's also important to separate raw foods (e.g., poultry, seafood and eggs) from those ready to eat. Lastly, never eat anything left out of a refrigerator or cooler for more than 2 hours or 1 hour if the temperature is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. 3. Cook. Food is safely cooked when the internal temperature is high enough to kill germs that can make you sick. The best way to know if food is cooked properly is by using a meat thermometer. For example, burgers and hot dogs should be cooked to 160 degrees Fahrenheit and chicken to 165. 4. Chill. Refrigerate food promptly since bacteria can rapidly multiply if left at room temperature. The "danger zone" for bacterial growth is 40-140 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have mild food poisoning, it's important to say hydrated. Keep in mind that more serious cases, which often include a fever and dehydration symptoms, require medical attention. REAPING THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF GARDENING Interest in home gardening continues to rise amid economic concerns. Although the annual Axiom Gardening Outlook Study found overall decreases in time spent gardening and plans to expand gardens, younger generations have been picking up gardening tools in recent years and plan to continue. Generation Z (69.2%) and millennials (51%) are expected to spend more time gardening in 2025. There's no denying that gardening has numerous benefits. It's a good way for households to get healthier and cheaper food, but it also helps people reach their movement goals. The CDC counts weeding, mulching and mowing as moderate exercises, while raking and digging are vigorous. In addition to physical activity and healthier eating habits, consider these health benefits of gardening: - Increased vitamin D levels that are essential for body functions - Reduced cortisol levels that trigger stress - Improved mood - Relaxation and reduced anxiety - Boosted self-esteem If you haven't started gardening yet, it's not too late to start and reap the benefits of time outside. Talk to your doctor to learn more about ways to manage your well-being. SLEEP TIPS FOR THE LONG SUMMER DAYS As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, many people find falling and staying asleep increasingly difficult. In addition, people may have busy social schedules for the summer. Summer sleep disturbances can be frustrating, but with a few practical tips, you can improve your sleep quality despite the seasonal changes. Try these tips: - Keep a consistent schedule . Late nights can happen in the summer, and that's OK. Overall, try to stick to a regular and consistent sleep schedule to regulate your circadian rhythm. - Create a cool sleep environment. Keep your bedroom cool with fans and air conditioning, or prop open doors and windows. - Use lightweight fabrics. Opt for lightweight and moisture-wicking pajamas and bedding. Materials like cotton, linen, bamboo and silk can help you stay comfortable. - Try a sleep mask. Longer daylight hours can disrupt your sleep cycle, so wearing a sleep mask can help create a dark environment. Experts advise against blackout curtains, as some light alerts your body that the day is coming, - Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated in the heat, but avoid large amounts right before bed to prevent waking up for bathroom trips. Remember, a good night's sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Small changes can improve your summer slumber, but talk to your doctor for further sleep guidance. This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice. Readers should contact a health professional for appropriate advice. © 2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved. Download the PDF copy here.

Learn more about the IRS releasing HSA/HDHP Limits for 2026 and Federal Agencies announcing the Nonenforcement Policy for Mental Health Parity Rule. IRS RELEASES HSA/HDHP LIMITS FOR 2026 On May 1, 2025, the IRS released the inflation-adjusted limits for health savings accounts (HSAs) and high deductible health plans (HDHPs) for 2026. The IRS is required to publish these limits by June 1 of each year. These limits include the following: - The maximum HSA contribution limit - The minimum deductible amount for HDHPs - The maximum out-of-pocket expense limit for HDHPs These limits vary based on whether an individual has self-only or family coverage under an HDHP. Eligible individuals with self-only HDHP coverage will be able to contribute $4,400 to their HSAs in 2026, up from $4,300 in 2025. Eligible individuals with family HDHP coverage will be able to contribute $8,750 to their HSAs in 2026, up from $8,550 in 2025. Individuals aged 55 or older may make an additional $1,000 “catch-up” contribution to their HSAs. The minimum deductible amount for HDHPs increases to $1,700 for self-only coverage and $3,400 for family coverage for 2026 (up from $1,650 for self-only coverage and $3,300 for family coverage for 2025). The HDHP maximum out-of-pocket expense limit increases to $8,500 for self-only coverage and $17,000 for family coverage for 2026 (up from $8,300 for self-only coverage and $16,600 for family coverage for 2025). Employers sponsoring HDHPs should review their plans’ cost-sharing limits (i.e., the minimum deductible amount and maximum out-of-pocket expense limit) when preparing for the plan year beginning in 2026. Also, employers allowing employees to make pre-tax HSA contributions should update their plan communications with the increased contribution limits. FEDERAL AGENCIES ANNOUNCE NONENFORCEMENT POLICY FOR MENTAL HEALTH PARITY RULE On May 15, 2025, the U.S. Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and the Treasury (Departments) released a statement regarding the nonenforcement of the 2024 final rule under the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA). The statement relates to a lawsuit brought by an employer trade group seeking to invalidate the final rule. The litigation has been put on hold while the Departments reconsider the final rule, including whether to modify or rescind it altogether. According to the Departments’ statement, they will not enforce the 2024 final rule (or otherwise pursue enforcement actions) based on a failure to comply that occurs prior to a final decision in the litigation, plus an additional 18 months . The Departments are also reexamining their MHPAEA enforcement program more broadly. MHPAEA requires parity between a group health plan’s medical/surgical benefits and mental health/substance use disorder benefits. The 2024 final rule’s changes are extensive and primarily focus on nonquantitative treatment limitations (NQTLs). NQTLs include a variety of strategies that generally limit the scope or duration of benefits, such as prior authorization requirements. The final rule generally applies for plan years beginning on or after Jan. 1, 2025; however, certain key requirements apply for plan years beginning on or after Jan. 1, 2026. Employer-sponsored health plans should continue to comply with MHPAEA’s statutory requirements and refer to a final rule from 2013 for guidance. Employers should also monitor updates regarding any modifications to the 2024 final rule. Provided to you by MFC Benefits, LLC © 2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved Download the PDF copy here. Link: http://chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://content.zywave.com/file/b6f7a224-b3a3-4409-a8f2-953f0994d66a/Benefits%20Buzz%20Newsletter%20January%202024.docx Link: http://chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://content.zywave.com/file/b6f7a224-b3a3-4409-a8f2-953f0994d66a/Benefits%20Buzz%20Newsletter%20January%202024.docx

Learn more about boosting your mental health daily, spring clean your routine and how to reduce processed food in your diet. BOOSTING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH DAILY Mental Health Awareness Month is observed every May to help break the stigma and support people living with mental health conditions. Mental illness refers to a range of diagnosed conditions that affect a person's mood, behavior, feelings, thinking and, ultimately, ability to function in daily life. Millions of Americans live with serious mental disorders, such as anxiety, major depression and bipolar disorder. Half of the people in the United States will be diagnosed with a mental disorder at some point in their lifetime. Mental health plays a huge role in your overall health and well-being. It affects everything, including how you think, feel and act, and helps determine how you make healthy choices and cope with stress. Mental health is always there; your state continually changes depending on resources and challenging. Focusing on maintaining or improving your mental health is important, so here are five ways to boost your mental health on a daily basis: 1. Express gratitude . Taking five minutes daily to write down the things you are grateful for has been proven to lower stress levels and help you achieve a more positive mindset. 2. Be kind . Helping others and being kind not only helps the recipient but can also benefit your mental health. Simply holding the door for someone or giving a compliment can go a long way. 3. Get moving . Exercising regularly can benefit your brain function, reduce anxiety and improve your self-image. 4. Get a good night's sleep . Fatigued individuals typically experience drowsiness, mood changes, loss of energy and appetite, headaches, and a lack of motivation, concentration and alertness. Strive for seven to eight hours of quality sleep at night. 5. Spend time outdoors . Getting outside, especially when it's sunny, can greatly improve your mood and ability to focus. Seek help from your primary care doctor or a mental health professional if you're concerned about your mental health. If you need mental health-related crisis support or are worried about someone else, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available by calling or texting 988 and chatting online at 988lifeline.org. SPRING CLEAN YOUR ROUTINE Springs isn't just for cleaning out your closet. It's also a great time to refresh your mind and body. It's important to check in on yourself regularly; a routine refresh can help you avoid illness, reduce stress and feel in control. Consider the following ways to freshen up your daily routine this spring: - Assess your current routine. The first step in spring cleaning your routine is to take stock of your current habits and activities. Are there tasks or commitments that no longer serve you? Are there areas where you feel overwhelmed or stressed? - Declutter your home . No clothing, equipment or other belongings are off-limits, so get rid of items you don't use anymore. - Create space for self-care. Prioritize self-care activities or take a few moments each day to relax and recharge. You can better manage stress and improve you overall well-being by carving out time for the activities you enjoy. - Reset your recipes with seasonal produce and other ingredients. Spring produce includes vegetables like asparagus, artichokes, radishes, rhubarb and peas, as well as fruits like strawberries. In-season produce is picked at the peak of their freshness and nutritional value, packed with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that boost the immune system. - Establish healthy habits. For example, you could commit to a regular sleep schedule or incorporate more movement into your day. Refreshing your routine can have a profound impact on your mental health. It can help you reduce stress, increase feelings of control and improve overall well-being. Start spring cleaning your routine today to create one that supports your mental health and enables you to thrive in spring and beyond. REDUCING PROCESSED FOOD IN YOUR DIET Processed foods have become a staple in American diets due to their convenience, taste, affordability and long shelf life. Yet, an increasing number of health experts are warning of the concerning impacts of these foods. A diet largely consisting of processed food can lead to chronic diseases, mental health issues, and even early death. Consider the following tips to remove ultra-processed food from your diet: -Read the label, checking for high amounts of additives, preservatives, sulfites, saturated and trans fats, and added sugar and salt. -Shop the perimeter of the grocery store and buy whole foods like fruits and vegetables. -Have healthy snacks on hand. - Swap refined grains - such as white pasta, rice and bread - for whole-grain options. - Cook meals at home and prep ahead of time. - Avoid processed meat (e.g., sausage, hot dogs, and lunch meat) Cutting highly processed items out entirely can be difficult, so start with these small steps. Before making dietary changes, consult your doctor. This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice. Readers should contact a health professional for appropriate advice. © 2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved. Download the PDF copy here.

Learn more about the new executive order that is aiming to reduce drug costs by aligning with global prices. NEW EXECUTIVE ORDER AIMS TO REDUCE DRUG COSTS BY ALIGNING WITH GLOBAL PRICES On May 12, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order (EO) that aims to bring the prices Americans pay for prescription drugs in line with those paid by similar nations. According to a White House fact sheet, the prices Americans pay for brand-name drugs are more than three times the price other nations pay. In April, President Trump signed another EO aimed at lowering prescription drug prices, which included a variety of directives related to the Medicare program and the pharmaceutical industry. The directives may not have an immediate impact on drug costs, as they will take time to implement. Key Directives The most recent EO outlines a number of actions intended to lower prescription drug prices in the United States. Among other things, the EO directs: - The U.S. Trade Representative and Secretary of Commerce to take action to ensure foreign countries "...are not engaged in practices that purposefully and unfairly undercut market prices and drive price hikes" in the U.S.; - The Trump administration to communicate price targets to pharmaceutical manufacturers; and - The Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a mechanism through which American patients can buy their drugs directly from manufacturers who sell to Americans at a "Most-Favored-Nation" price. Notably, if drug manufacturers fail to offer most-favored-nation pricing, the EO directs the Secretary of HHS to: 1. Propose rules that impose most-favored-nation pricing; and 2. Take "other aggressive measures to significantly reduce the cost of prescription drugs to the American consumer and end anticompetitive practices." This includes, but is not limited to, enforcement action by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. Potential Legal Hurdles While the EO directs the Secretary of HHS to communicate most-favored-nation price targets to pharmaceutical manufacturers within 30 days, it is expected to face legal challenges. Industry professionals reference a similar proposal from Trump's first term, which aimed to link Medicare payments for certain medications to the lowest prices paid by other countries. This proposal was blocked by federal courts for not adhering to the notice and comment process required by the Administrative Procedure Act. Thus, the immediate impact on drug costs remains to be seen. Highlights - The EO directs HHS to communicate most-favored-nation price targets to pharmaceutical manufacturers within 30 days -The EO is expected to face legal challenges, so the immediate impact on drug costs remains to be seen Provided to you by MFC Benefits, LLC © 2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved Download the PDF copy here. Link: http://chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://content.zywave.com/file/b6f7a224-b3a3-4409-a8f2-953f0994d66a/Benefits%20Buzz%20Newsletter%20January%202024.docx Link: http://chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://content.zywave.com/file/b6f7a224-b3a3-4409-a8f2-953f0994d66a/Benefits%20Buzz%20Newsletter%20January%202024.docx

Learn more about the DOL updating the Model Employer CHIP Notice and when the Prescription Drug Report is Due. DOL UPDATES MODEL EMPLOYER CHIP NOTICE The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has released a new model Employer Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Notice with information current as of March 17, 2025 . As a reminder, the Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 (CHIPRA) imposes an annual notice requirement on employers that maintain group health plans in states that provide premium assistance subsidies under a Medicaid plan or a CHIP plan. An employer can choose to provide the notice on its own or concurrent with the furnishing of: • Materials notifying the employee of health plan eligibility; • Materials provided to the employee in connection with an open enrollment or election process conducted under the plan; or • The Summary Plan Description. An employer is subject to this annual notice requirement if its group health plan covers participants who reside in a state that provides a premium assistance subsidy, regardless of the employer’s location. The DOL’s model notice, which employers may use for this disclosure, is updated periodically to reflect changes in the states that offer premium assistance subsidies. The DOL’s model Employer CHIP Notice includes information current as of March 17, 2025. Employers could also choose to prepare their own notices or modify the model notice. Employers should be sure to include at least the minimum relevant state contact information for any employee residing in a state with premium assistance. PRESCRIPTION DRUG REPORT IS DUE BY JUNE 1, 2025 Group health plans must annually submit detailed information on prescription drug and health care spending to the federal government. This reporting is referred to as the prescription drug data collection, also known as the RxDC report. The next RxDC report is due by Sunday, June 1, 2025 , covering data for 2024. Employers should confirm they are taking steps to comply with this reporting deadline, such as providing information to third-party vendors on a timely basis. The RxDC report is comprised of several files, including those that require specific plan-level information, such as plan year beginning and end dates and enrollment and premium data. It also includes files that require detailed information about medical and pharmacy benefits. RxDC reports must be submitted through an online portal maintained by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The agency’s RxDC website includes updated reporting instructions and other reporting resources. Employers commonly use third parties, such as issuers, third-party administrators (TPAs) and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), to submit RxDC reports on behalf of their health plans. Employers using third parties to submit RxDC reports must ensure that this reporting responsibility is reflected in a written agreement with the third party. Employers may work with multiple third parties to complete the RxDC report for their health plans. For example, a self-insured employer may use both its TPA and PBM to submit different portions of the RxDC report. A health plan’s submission is considered complete if CMS receives all required files, regardless of who submits them. Provided to you by MFC Benefits, LLC © 2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved Download the PDF copy here. Link: http://chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://content.zywave.com/file/b6f7a224-b3a3-4409-a8f2-953f0994d66a/Benefits%20Buzz%20Newsletter%20January%202024.docx Link: http://chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://content.zywave.com/file/b6f7a224-b3a3-4409-a8f2-953f0994d66a/Benefits%20Buzz%20Newsletter%20January%202024.docx