WCIF Benefits Blog: October 2026

 

 

 

 

 

 

NEW Benefit Announcement! WCIF is excited to launch an emergency transport protection resource

Washington government and non-profits continue to face growing pressure to remain competitive employers while managing tight budgets and evolving workforce expectations. As part of our ongoing commitment to support participating employers, WCIF is introducing a new Indemnity Benefit Plan focused on an increasingly common and often costly coverage gap: emergency medical transportation.

WCIF is now making information available to members about Medical Access & Service Advantage (MASA®), a leading nationwide provider of emergency medical transportation protections designed to complement existing employer benefit programs.

Addressing a growing benefits challenge

Emergency ground and air ambulance services can result in significant out‑of‑pocket expenses for employees—even when they are covered by traditional health insurance. These costs are often unexpected and can create financial strain for employees and their families.

Government and non-profit workforces frequently operate across wide geographic areas and include employees who live or work in rural communities, where transport distances may be longer and provider options more limited. As employers evaluate benefits strategies that support recruitment, retention, and long‑term workforce sustainability, emergency transport exposure has become an issue worth reassessing.

Why WCIF is sharing this program

WCIF regularly reviews benefit solutions that align with the unique needs of public‑service employers. After reviewing MASA’s experience with public service organizations and structure, WCIF is sharing this option as a resource for groups seeking to strengthen their total rewards strategy without interrupting the core medical plan.

MASA is a leading nationwide provider of emergency medical transportation protections, with experience serving government and public‑service employers across the country. The program is designed to work alongside existing healthcare coverage and shield employees against out-of-pocket costs associated with emergency ambulance transports and related expenses.

What employees get with MASA

Counties that offer MASA can provide employees access to a single, streamlined supplemental protection designed to help reduce out-of-pocket costs associated with emergency transportation. MASA complements — not replaces — primary health coverage, helping employees feel more financially prepared when unexpected emergencies happen.

By offering MASA, employers can add meaningful support to their benefits package while giving employees added confidence and peace of mind when it matters most.

Experience serving the public sector

MASA has extensive experience working with government and public-service organizations across the country, including counties, municipalities, and employer groups with diverse workforce needs. This longstanding focus has helped MASA understand the unique considerations public-service employers face when evaluating supplemental benefit offerings, including budget awareness, employee accessibility, and ease of administration.

As a result, MASA is well positioned to support members seeking a straightforward supplemental protection program that can add meaningful value to their employee benefits package while aligning with the needs of a public-service workforce.

Learn more

WCIF encourages member counties to review this program and determine whether it aligns with their workforce and benefits goals.

For more information, you can:

  • View the full MASA overview for WCIF members at masaaccess.com/wcif
  • Contact your WCIF Account Executive

As always, WCIF remains committed to helping our members access information and resources that support informed decision‑making.

MASA Enrollment

Testimonial

 


 

MetLife – More Pets, More Protection: MetLife Pet Insurance Now Covers Exotic Pets!

Our pets are family—and for many of us, that family includes more than just cats and dogs!

We’re excited to share that MetLife Pet Insurance now offers coverage for exotic pets in Washington State, giving even more pet parents the opportunity to help protect their beloved companions.

Whether your household includes a feathered, scaled, or small furry friend, eligible exotic pets can now have access to customizable pet insurance options designed to help with unexpected veterinary expenses. Coverage options can include different reimbursement levels, annual benefit limits, and deductible choices to help pet parents select coverage that fits their needs and budget.

Pet insurance can provide valuable financial support when the unexpected happens—from accidents and injuries to illnesses and other eligible veterinary care. As always, coverage is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, limitations, and underwriting requirements of the policy.

Have an exotic pet? Now is a great time to explore what MetLife Pet Insurance may be able to offer your unique member of the family!

Scan the QR code for the full list of covered Exotic Pets!

 


 

Medicare Part D Creditable Coverage Notices

WCIF medical enrollees age 64 and older will soon receive a Medicare Part D Creditable Coverage Notice at their home address. Employers with medical coverage through WCIF will also receive a cover letter and copy of the notice for their records.

These notices provide important information about prescription drug coverage and Medicare Part D. Please watch for these materials and retain them for your records.

 


 

Planning for Your 2027 Renewal? We’re Here to Help!

As you work through the 2027 Master Application, remember that your WCIF Account Executive is here to help! Whether you’re looking for strategic guidance as you plan for the upcoming renewal, have questions about the Master Application, or simply want to talk through your options, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Our team is happy to help you navigate the renewal process and make sure you have the information you need to make informed decisions for your group.

2027 Master Application Deadline:
Completed Master Applications should be submitted to renewals@wcif.net no later than Friday, October 9, 2026.

If you have questions or need assistance along the way, please contact your WCIF Account Executive. We’re here to support you throughout the renewal process!