Retired and active employees are encouraged to attend one of the twenty fairs to be held across the Commonwealth. The fairs provide the one and only opportunity for members to speak with insurance officials about their specific plan and switch their coverage if they so choose.

Changes made in each plan's coverage, along with the retirees choice of plan are set to take effect July 1, 2000. As the health care market continues to evolve, members should not rely on benefits remaining unchanged.

"Every year the Association encourages our members to attend the health fairs and ask questions about their health insurance. Now it is more important than ever for retirees to pay very close attention to the details," says Association Insurance Coordinator Cheryl Stillman. "You cannot switch plans at any other time other than during the annual open enrollment."