Effective January 1, 2008, Burlington College employees and their dependents enjoy new health benefits that will keep its members healthy and help those with chronic or catastrophic illnesses get the special attention they need. This new initiative is in keeping with the College's role as a responsible small business organization in the community, providing high-standard benefits to all its employees.

The new plan is under the HSA Preventive Blue Care from BlueCross BlueShield Vermont. Member/employees will be given a Health Savings Account (HSA): a high-deductible health plan coupled with a tax-free health savings account or investment portfolio. After the member pays the high deductible of $2000 for single and $4000 for two-person or family plan, the remaining medical expenses will be covered by the plan at 100% each calendar year. This eliminates the endless round of co-payment especially for catastrophic illnesses. On top of this, preventive care visits are fully covered and not subject to deductibles. The College also includes a vision rider to enhance the overall coverage.

To offset the high deductible, Burlington College Director of Finance and Human Resource Christine Plunkett announced that the College will provide 80% of the out-of-pocket cost through a monthly deposit to each member's HSA for a total of $1600 for single plan and $3200 for two-person and family plan each calendar year. With the new lower premium, employees are able to retain more take-home dollars on the pay check and yet be able to fill up the remaining 20% deductibles that can be drawn from the funds they save. The HSA plan allows the member to retain and carry over any unused funds for future medical expenses.

In addition to the health insurance, Burlington College pays the full premium cost of dental insurance coverage for employees and their families through Metropolitan Insurance.

Burlington College is an independent, progressive, liberal arts institution that honors the individuality of each student and emphasizes the dynamic relationship between education and experience. Founded in 1972 as the Vermont Institute of Community Involvement, the College has from its origin focused on integrating learning, personal development, and community engagement.

The mission of Burlington College is to guide students to become skillful and reflective practitioners, lifelong learners, and active citizens engaged in fostering a just, humane society and sustainable, beautiful communities.

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