For 2026, Missouri State University will hold dental premiums at current levels and has finalized health and prescription plan rates. Here’s what to know and how to save.

2026 Dental Plan Premium Rates

The good news: there are no rate changes for the 2026 Dental Plan!

Your dental premiums remain the same for another year—continuing MSU’s commitment to keeping coverage affordable and comprehensive.

2026 Health and Prescription Plan Premium Rates

MSU’s Health Coverage Plan is self-funded. The university—not an outside insurer—pays medical claims using university funds and employee premiums. This structure helps MSU manage costs and design benefits that fit employee needs.

The university continues to pay the majority of total health care premiums, ensuring coverage remains accessible for employees and their families.

The university offers two types of plans – the Base Plan has a lower premium and higher deductible and the Buy-Up Plan has a higher premium and lower deductible.

(Rates shown below are without the wellness incentive. Complete 2026 wellness activities to reduce your monthly premium by up to $30.)

Monthly rates

Why Rates Change

Each year, MSU and Med-Pay analyze the total amount of claims paid compared to premiums contributed by employees and the university. Like most large employers, MSU continues to face rising medical and prescription costs due to inflation, increased utilization, and higher overall provider pricing (although MSU enjoys competitive discounts through the Mercy contract).

While premium adjustments are necessary to keep the plan sustainable, MSU’s rates remain highly competitive compared to peer institutions.

For example, a large Missouri university’s 2026 PPO plan—with an $800 deductible similar to MSU’s Buy-Up Plan—lists the following monthly rates:

Even with modest rate increases, MSU’s plan continues to provide strong value and competitive pricing for comprehensive coverage.

Cost-Containment Tips

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure—and that’s especially true for your health and your wallet. Preventive care not only keeps you healthier but also helps contain costs for everyone covered under the plan.

Here’s how to make the most of your benefits:

• Use preventive services:
  Both Magers Health and Wellness Center and Mercy cover routine preventive services at 100%, including annual physicals, mammograms, pap tests, PSA screenings, and immunizations.
  • The Mammogram Bus will continue to visit campus for convenient, no-cost breast cancer screening.
  • The Women’s Care Clinic at Magers offers pap testing and women’s health exams.
  • Don’t forget to schedule your biometric screening, which not only promotes early detection but also helps you earn a premium discount on your 2026 health plan.
• Leverage Magers Health and Wellness for savings:
  Deductibles are waived at Magers—so even if you use an outside physician, you can request Magers to process lab services under the plan. Magers offers a wide range of services, including women’s care, lab testing, x-rays, immunizations, and expanded mental health services with new clinicians added this year.
• Manage chronic conditions:
  The plan’s #1 cost driver continues to be diabetes-related care. Employees and dependents managing diabetes are encouraged to engage with Mercy Care Management programs, which provide personalized support, resources, and education to improve outcomes and reduce costs.
• Seek the right level of care:
  • Primary Care: Your best first stop for ongoing or routine medical needs.
  • Urgent Care: For same-day concerns that aren’t emergencies but can’t wait for an appointment.
  • Emergency Room: Reserve for true emergencies only.
    Using the most appropriate level of care helps keep costs lower for everyone.
• Shop around for non-preventive services and prescriptions. Prices can vary widely, so using in-network providers and pharmacies ensures maximum plan savings.
• Review your coverage during open enrollment (Nov. 1–Dec. 1) to ensure your plan still fits your family’s needs.

Samaritan Fund Support

Employees or dependents experiencing severe medical conditions may be eligible for help through the Missouri State University and The Samaritan Fund Program.
This fund offers insurance coverage and financial support for those facing significant medical hardships.

🔗 Learn more: MSU Samaritan Fund Program