UVA Health Plan Changes Are Coming July 1

Important Update: Enhancements to the UVA Health Plan Effective July 1

At UVA, we are committed to supporting the health and well-being of our employees while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the UVA Health Plan. As healthcare needs and costs evolve, we are making thoughtful updates to our plan that will help us continue to provide high-quality care and support—now and into the future.

Beginning July 1, 2025, the following changes will take effect:

🌟 1. Introducing the CVS Health Weight Management Program

CVS, in partnership with Aetna, is excited to launch a more personalized and supportive approach to weight management through the new CVS Health Weight Management Program. This program is designed to empower employees on their weight loss journey with:

  • One-on-one virtual coaching with clinicians, including registered dietitians
  • A nutrition plan personalized to your individual needs and preferences
  • A digital app to help you stay on track with your health goals
  • A structured eligibility and approval process to ensure you get the most out of your GLP-1 medications

Whether you're currently using GLP-1 medications or considering them, this new program ensures you receive the guidance and care needed to succeed—especially during the more challenging moments of the journey. CVS will be reaching out directly to those currently using GLP-1 medications with more information.

đź’Š 2. Transition to the Advanced Control Formulary

The Aetna formulary list is reviewed and updated quarterly. To better manage rising prescription drug costs and maintain the fiscal health of our plan, the UVA Health Plan will be moving from the Standard Formulary to the Advanced Control Formulary. This change allows the UVA Health Plan to continue offering comprehensive coverage while being more strategic about which medications are included.

Impacted employees and team members have received a letter from CVS on May 1 and will receive a reminder letter on June 1. You can see a complete list of changes here.

Changes to medication coverage can be challenging, and the Aetna One Advocate (A1A) team is here to support you through this transition.

⚖️ 3. Update on Zepbound Coverage

Zepbound, a popular weight loss medication, will no longer be covered under the UVA Health Plan starting July 1. Employees currently using Zepbound will need to transition to an alternative medication.

  • While existing prior authorizations will still be honored, they must now be applied to a new, covered weight loss medication—Zepbound will not be eligible after July 1. Wegovy is the recommended alternative, and a new prescription will be required. Your current prior authorization will remain valid through its expiration date, but it must be transferred to a medication on the updated formulary.
  • There will be formulary exception criteria for Zepbound requests to allow for medical necessity review on an individual case-by-case basis. Please consult with your prescriber to determine if medical necessity is necessary and they can submit on your behalf for review, using the attached Aetna Medical Exception form.  However, Zepbound will be placed in Tier 3, which carries a higher cost. 

Your A1A remains committed to helping you find effective alternatives and will work with you and your healthcare provider to ensure continuity of care.

đź’™ Our Commitment to You

These changes reflect UVA's ongoing dedication to providing meaningful health benefits while being responsible stewards of our shared resources. We are here to support you every step of the way—through personalized care, transparent communication, and a focus on your well-being.

If you have questions or need assistance, please contact your A1A at 800.987.9072.

Together, we can build a healthier future—for you, your family, and our entire UVA community.