Federal Employees Health Benefits Program

The federal government is the largest employer in the United States, and the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) is the largest employer-sponsored health insurance program. FEHBP covers about 8 million individuals, providing an estimated $43 billion annually in health care benefits. The participation rate among eligible enrollees is about 90% (85% of eligible individuals enrol in FEHBP as the primary policy holder, and another 5% are covered as a family member). This book examines the essential elements and legislative history of FEHBP with a focus on available health insurance options; laws affecting FEHBP; and health benefits for Members of Congress.