JHCC Motion on Digital Health Messages and Premera Health Hub

February 24, 2026 (motion to CHRO Conley re: digital health messages and Premera Health Hub)

Dear CHRO Conley,

I am writing as Chair of the Joint Health Care Committee (JHCC). The United Academics CBA Article 16.1.c requires that the JHCC prepare written recommendations, the Chair forwards the CHRO and the president of each represented employee group, the CHRO renders in writing within 20 business days of receiving the recommendations reasons for not accepting any recommendation, and copies of the recommendations and the CHRO’s decision be posted on the UAHR Benefits website.

At the meeting on February 18, the JHCC passed the following two motions without objections.

  1. The JHCC recommends that we not add targeted text messages for FY27.
  2. The JHCC recommends that we do not add the Premera Health Hub for FY27.

I apologize for the delay in transmitting these motions.

-Jill

Jill A. Dumesnil, PhD
President, United Academics AAUP/AFT Local 4996
Professor of Mathematics
University of Alaska Southeast

March 4, 2026 (response from CHRO Conley re: digital health messages and Premera Health Hub)

Chair Dumesnil,

As required under Article 16.1.c of the United Academics Collective Bargaining Agreement, I am writing in response to the Joint Health Care Committee’s (JHCC) written recommendation forwarded by the Chair of the JHCC, Jill Dumesnil on February 24, 2026.

At the committee meeting on February 18, 2026, the JHCC passed the following two motions without objections.

  1. The JHCC recommends that we not add targeted text messages for FY27

The JHCC recommendation to not add targeted text messaging for FY27 is approved.

This determination reflects a review of current employee engagement metrics, communication channel utilization rates, cost considerations, and privacy implications. Existing communication methods—including email campaigns, benefits newsletters, open enrollment materials, and direct outreach—are performing at acceptable engagement thresholds and do not demonstrate a compelling need for expansion into targeted SMS communications at this time.

For FY27, we will maintain current communication strategies and reassess digital engagement tools during the FY28 planning cycle if utilization data or participation trends warrant reconsideration.

  1. The JHCC recommends that we do not add the Premera Health Hub for FY27.

Preliminary analysis indicates that the Premera Blue Cross Health Hub platform may provide measurable value in several areas:

  • Enhanced care navigation and centralized access to benefits resources

  • Improved member engagement through integrated digital tools

  • Potential long-term cost containment through early intervention and utilization management

  • Alignment with broader strategic objectives around preventive care and employee wellness including providing women’s health, tobacco cessation, continued coverage for virtual musculoskeletal support, and enhanced mental health support.

While cost and implementation logistics require further review, the potential for improved employee experience and data-driven health engagement justifies continued evaluation rather than discontinuation at this stage. UA will implement the Premera Health Hub for FY27.

In accordance with Article 16.1.c, this memo serves as the CHRO’s written decision.

Thank you to the Committee for its continued work supporting the health and wellness of plan participants across the University of Alaska system.

Thanks,
 
Nickole Conley, CHRO
University of Alaska
Human Resources