Last year, Drake University took a closer look at the faculty and staff wellness program, including biometric screenings, to determine best practices as it relates to the well-being of our employees. In January of this year, a decision was made to offer a physician only option in 2020.  Employees on Drake’s health plan who wished to receive the wellness health insurance premium discount during the 2021 calendar year would need to complete a physical with a primary care physician (PCP) between December 1, 2019, and November 30, 2020.

At that time, no one could have imagined that we would be facing a global pandemic. COVID-19 has made it difficult for employees to make appointments to receive their annual physicals, and has created a sense of anxiety for some about going to their doctor’s office for a well check.

Due to these extraordinary conditions, Drake University has made the decision to waive the physician exam requirement to qualify for the wellness premium discount in 2021.  All participants enrolled in Drake’s medical plan will receive the wellness health insurance premium discount in 2021.

We will return to the physician only option in 2021 to receive the health insurance premium discount in 2022. Employees on Drake’s health plan will need to complete a physical with a PCP between December 1, 2020 ,and November 30, 2021, and submit a Physician Exam Completion Form to receive the wellness health insurance premium discount in 2022.

Until then, we encourage all employees to participate in the wellness programs offered at Drake University and to utilize the resources available to enhance your health and wellbeing.

— Linda Feiden, Human Resources