07/28/2026
UUP Health Care Contract was ratified
NYSHIP Changes – Effective January 1, 2027
Just sharing information for anyone with NYSHIP Empire Plan Out-of-Network Massage Therapy or Acupuncture benefits.
Beginning January 1, 2027:
✅ Out-of-network Massage Therapy will be limited to 15 visits per calendar year.
✅ Out-of-network Acupuncture will also be limited to 15 visits per calendar year.
✅ The out-of-network deductible will remain at $1,250.
✅ The maximum reimbursement will be $125 per visit… $125 for 10 treatments to reach deductible , essentially only 5 treatments will be paid by insurance
If you or someone you know relies on these benefits please review details of your new plan. Every out of network benefits is affected by this not just Massage and Acupuncture.