Benefits Newsletter: Important 2026 Benefits Updates
July 23, 2026
Dear Team,
Our Summer 2026 Benefits Newsletter is now available, and it includes important information about upcoming benefits changes and enhancements for 2027.
One of the biggest updates is that, effective Oct. 1, 2026, Cook Children’s will transition our medical insurance carrier to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX). After careful evaluation, we believe this change will provide employees and their families with stronger support, a broader provider network and greater overall value.
Read the Summer 2026 Benefits Newsletter here.
Also, watch your mailbox in early August for a comprehensive 2027 Benefits Guide, which will provide additional details about your benefits options, plan rates and Open Enrollment.
In today’s newsletter, you'll learn about:
New medical coverage through BCBSTX
- Access to a larger network of providers
- Enhanced member resources, including Blue365 and a 24/7 nurseline
- A simplified support experience through BCBSTX Health Advocacy Solutions (HAS)
Cost updates
- Health care costs increased approximately 9% for the upcoming plan year, but this change helped limit the increase to about 3%
- Cook Children’s will continue to absorb most of the additional cost to help keep coverage affordable
What's staying the same
- Your two medical plan options
- Dental, vision and pharmacy coverage
Additional benefits updates
- FSA and COBRA administration will move from Navia to HealthEquity
- Capital Rx is now Judi Rx (no changes to your pharmacy benefits or ID cards)
We encourage you to review the newsletter to learn more about these changes and how they may affect you and your family.
Thank you for taking the time to stay informed about your benefits.
Cook Children’s Benefits Team