Transform Your Financial Future: Join Us for Financial Fitness Week 2025 at Duke!

Over a lifetime, the average American can spend more than $320,000 on health care with employer-sponsored insurance. If unexpected medical costs arise or if someone has a chronic condition, that amount can quickly increase.

To address these financial challenges, Duke Human Resources is hosting five webinars during its Financial Fitness Week from September 22 to 25. These sessions will help employees understand benefits changes for 2026 and improve their financial health through budgeting, debt reduction, and retirement savings.

During the event, participants will learn about the new Duke Advantage High Deductible Health Plan and how it works with a Health Savings Account (HSA). Experts from organizations like Fidelity and the Hartford will lead these discussions, providing valuable insights for staff and faculty.

Johanna Zawada, Associate Director of Retirement Benefits, explains, “We’re blending health and financial benefits for a more holistic view.” This approach comes as many Americans worry about their financial security in retirement. A recent survey by the National Institute on Retirement Security found that 55% of Americans are concerned about achieving financial stability for their golden years. Additionally, 44% of U.S. families struggle with high health care costs, according to a survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation.

“It’s crucial to consider how medical expenses can impact overall financial planning,” notes Laura Panebianco, Associate Director of Health & Welfare Benefits. “Unexpected medical bills can derail even the best financial plans.”

Some key webinars to look forward to include:

• Managing My Money: Tips on budgeting, saving, and managing debt.
• Social Security: Understand your eligibility and benefits.
• Duke Faculty and Staff Plan: Learn about retirement options available to Duke employees.
• High Deductible Health Plans vs. Traditional Plans: Compare the new Duke Advantage plan with existing options.
• Understanding HSAs: Explore how the new HSA can benefit you.

By attending these sessions, employees can gain essential knowledge to navigate their financial futures while ensuring they are prepared for upcoming health care changes.

For more information, you can check out Duke Human Resources’ overview of Financial Fitness Week.

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