Tobacco-Usage Surcharge Program
Introducing Our Tobacco-Usage Surcharge Program
Oklahoma City University was one of the first institutions in the state to respond to the health risks of smoking and tobacco use by creating a tobacco-free campus in 2008. Our commitment to a tobacco-free campus supports a safe and healthful workplace for our employees and learning environment for our students. Most people know that tobacco use leads to heart disease, cancer, and other adverse health conditions, but many people continue to use tobacco. In fact, smoking is the number one preventable cause of death and disability in the United States (www.cdc.gov).
As an extension of our commitment to a tobacco-free campus and to employee wellness, faculty and staff enrolled in a university medical plan (Base, Choice, or Premier Plan) who declare themselves tobacco users will incur a $50 monthly surcharge (or $25 for employees paid biweekly) beginning later in 2018. This surcharge is intended to encourage employees who use tobacco to consider quitting tobacco while also offsetting the higher costs associated with covering tobacco-users. You can find the Cessation Program Verification Form here.
While OCU understands that it is difficult to quit using tobacco, we also know that quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health. We have included options in the Tobacco-Usage Surcharge Program to provide employees who use tobacco with choices for taking steps toward cessation and to customize their cessation approach for success.
How does the program work?
To support the health and wellness of our faculty and staff, the university has implemented a tobacco-user surcharge for employees (currently, the program does not include dependents) covered by the Base, Choice, or Premier Plans who use tobacco products.
Employees enrolled in medical coverage must certify online via the Tobacco Affidavit included in the Open Enrollment Form whether or not tobacco has been used within the last 60 days. The surcharge is in addition to the medical plan premium and is $50 per pay period for monthly employees and $25 per pay period for biweekly employees. The surcharge will be applied effective March 1, 2018.
The surcharge will be waived if:
- You certify that you have not been a tobacco-user (definition) in the last 60 days.
- You engage in and complete a tobacco cessation program by February 28, 2018.
Why now?
Each year, the university has strengthened our commitment to making the healthy choice the easy choice. We have implemented programs to encourage employees to complete preventive health screenings, explore fitness opportunities, take part in financial wellness programs, engage in healthful eating, support mental health, and more.
This year, we are connecting our status as a tobacco-free campus with our medical insurance plans in recognition of the health effects and financial impact of tobacco-usage.
I'm not a tobacco user. What action do I take?
If you do not meet the definition of a tobacco-user, simply complete the Tobacco Affidavit that is part of the online Open Enrollment Form indicating that you are not a tobacco user.
I am a tobacco user and I am interested in quitting. How will the university assist me?
First, that’s great news! When you complete the Tobacco Affidavit that is part of the online Open Enrollment Form, indicate that you have used tobacco, but plan to complete a tobacco cessation program. You have many options to begin your journey toward becoming tobacco-free.
I have more questions.
Please review the FAQs for assistance. If you cannot find the information you need, please contact Valerie Robinson.
Cessation Program Verification Form
Download here