News Briefs

THE DAILY FED

News Briefs

The following news summaries are from OPM AM, the daily newsletter of the Office of Personnel Management. OPM AM is available on OPM Mainstreet, the agency's electronic bulletin board, at 202-606-4800.

THE FEDERAL DIARY--Federal workers and retirees have until December 9 to pick a 1997 health insurance plan (Monday, November 11)...Thanks to special congressional approval, Department of Agriculture and IRS are making employee buyout plans. "Many of the buyouts will go to federal employees in the Washington area" (Tuesday, November 12)...The Thrift Savings Plan could make a big difference for future retirees (The Washington Post, Sunday, November 10).

PICKING A HEALTH PLAN--"The choice of a health plan revolves around money, convenience and quality" (Monday, November 11, Washington Post, Health Section).

HMOS--A survey published today shows that most people don't understand what managed care is, how it works or how it differs from traditional health insurance (USA TODAY).

REORGANIZATION--In an effort to better solve patient problems, the government agency that distributes Medicare and Medicaid benefits is setting up a consumer unit as part of a major agency-wide reorganization (The Washington Post).

PERFORMANCE--"For many employees, the annual performance appraisal is a ritual to be endured. You show up and take your licks or receive glowing reviews." However, experts say taking such a passive approach may cost you. There are reasons to be more proactive. "Employees can hurt their careers by leaving questions about the future to their bosses" (The New York Times).

SNOW--Mayor Barry's recent announcement that [Washington, DC] residential streets "will get attention first" during any future snowstorms, caught many off guard and ruffled more than a few feathers (The Washington Post).