The information on benefits for TSSU members is on Pages 48 to 53 of the Collective Agreement. Application forms for the plans are available in Strand Hall, at the Human Resources benefits office. YOU MUST MAKE APPLICATION IN ORDER TO BE COVERED. Unfortunately, the University does not believe that it has to ensure that you are enrolled in the plans.
Medical
“The University will pay the required premiums for MSP.” (This is for TA/TM employees and their dependents. ELC and ITP employees must pay 40% of the cost of their MSP).
Extended
“The University will pay the required premiums for Extended Health Benefits and will deduct twenty five (25) percent of that premium from the eligible employee’s salary.” (Again, for employees and their dependents).
Our extended plan DOES NOT INCLUDE vision care benefits – there is no eyeglass coverage. In addition, it does not cover birth control medication, and it provides very limited coverage for professional practitioners such as psychologists, physiotherapy, etc.
Dental
The University does not have an actual plan for dental for TSSU members (except for Continuing ELC/ITP employees – see page 113 of the Collective Agreement). If you carry the Pacific Blue Cross Personal Dental Plan as an individual, you can apply to have SFU reimburse a small amount of the premium cost. “$11.35 per month for single coverage; $22.70 per month for couple coverage, or $24.50 per month for family coverage for each month in that semester for which an employee was enrolled in that dental plan.”
The application must be received no later than the end of Week 12 of the semester for which you seek reimbursement.
What if I am not working for a semester?
If you want to maintain coverage, but you are not teaching, you may do so for up to two semesters after your last appointment. You must advise Human Resources in writing before the end of your last contract that you wish to carry on for one or two more semesters. You will have to pay 100% of the premiums for the first semester before the end of your last contract. The second semester is prepaid before the first semester of such coverage ends.
Other benefits
In addition, the contract provides for up to a month of sick time per semester for all TSSU members EXCEPT ELC and ITP, who are entitled to 12 paid sick leave days per year, compassionate leave, maternity and parental care leave, and family care leave (up to 5 days unpaid to meet family responsibilities), pay during University closure, etc. (Please take the time to read about your benefits).