Bremerton-based KPS Health Plans has successfully completed negotiations with the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to renew its contract for the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP).

New benefits were added while rate increases were kept to a minimum. The total benefit package includes medical, hospital, prescription drugs and, for those on Standard Option, dental benefits.

Pierce County was recently added to KPS’ expanded service area for the Federal Employees Program which already included Kitsap, Thurston, Mason, Jefferson, Clallam and Grays Harbor counties.

Nov. 12 through Dec. 10 constitutes a period called “Open Season” for federal employees. Eligible participants can change health benefit programs to any one of the many participating plans available in their area.

KPS has contracted with OPM to deliver benefits to full-time civilian employees and retirees of the federal government as well as postal service employees since 1967 and has offered benefit programs to eligible employees of the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard since 1950.