Employee Benefit Guidance & Compliance Solutions

Human Resources

Five Reasons Why Every Group Healthcare Plan Should Incorporate Mental Health Options

Posted by on May 19, 2023 in Human Resources

As an employer, are you paying attention to what is stressing out your employees? Mental health options are an integral part of overall health and well-being, yet often go unrecognized or neglected in many group health care plans. Many employers offer physical health benefits that cover doctor visits, prescriptions, and other preventative services but often overlook the importance of mental health care. This oversight can have serious consequences for both employees and businesses alike, leading to increased stress and decreased productivity. A recent survey of over 1,000 employees by JobSage, an employee transparency platform revealed the following disturbing statistics: 41% of Americans are considering quitting their jobs. 67% of employees say they are stressed by their jobs (compared to 54% in 2022). 55% of employees say they are anxious because of job aspects (compared to 36% in 2022). Fortunately, there are several ways employers can incorporate mental health options...

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Is it Time for Employers to Consider Reference Based Pricing Health Plans?

Posted by on March 1, 2023 in Human Resources

It is no secret that overall, healthcare costs are rising, in a climate where employees are looking for more and more from their benefits offerings. For employers it is a constant challenge to provide a robust package that will help with the goal of attraction and retention of talent, while also trying to control costs. Reference based pricing health plans have become increasingly popular in recent years as employers look for ways to contain those rising healthcare costs. Reference based pricing is a type of health plan that sets a maximum allowable fee for certain procedures, tests, and services. While this can indeed be an effective way to control costs, there are pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s the right choice for your company. PROS   Cost Control. The primary benefit of reference-based pricing is that it helps employers control healthcare costs. By placing a limit...

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Healthcare Renewal is a Great Time for a 360 Degree Review

Posted by on October 31, 2022 in Human Resources

January is a big month for healthcare renewal and a perfect time to start reviewing your broker relationship. A strong broker / client relationship should be collaborative, a true partnership. At PF Compass we see ourselves as your business advisor and partner – not just a broker! Before you meet with your current broker it is wise to do a full 360-degree review of your current relationship. Asking your key stakeholder for feedback is vital. It shows that you care and that you place employee well-being and your client’s success high on your priority list. Here are some key questions you should be asking. Employers   Is our broker earning the fees we are paying them? Do I have unnecessary “add on” costs? How often do I hear from them? How creative are they in providing options and alternatives to control cost without unnecessary disruption for our employees? How...

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Insurance Companies to Cover at Home COVID Tests – 8 Key Questions Answered

Posted by on January 17, 2022 in Human Resources

At home COVID tests just became more accessible and affordable. On Jan 10th the Biden Administration released a directive that health insurers and group health plans cover the cost of FDA-authorized or approved over the counter at-home COVID-19 tests purchased on or after Jan 15th. The goal is to remove financial barriers and expand access to COVID-19 testing for million of people. As with any new initiatives or directives, information evolves quickly and often creates questions and confusion. Here are some of the key questions and answers for employers and employees: Who is eligible?Anyone with private, employer sponsored, or student health commercial insurance is eligible for reimbursement. What is covered?Up to eight (8) OTC COVID-19 diagnostic antigen rapid home tests per 30-day period for each person covered under your plan. Each test is counted separately so a kit that includes two tests you are covered for up to four...

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Importance of Mental Health & Employee Assistance Programs (EAP’s)

Posted by on October 19, 2021 in Human Resources

It is hard to think of a time in recent history when there have been more things to “stress” about. The COVID impact has been significant, between sickness and loss of loved ones, loss of jobs or furlough’s, work and school from home, and other ramifications too long to list, these have been unprecedented times. If there are to be any lasting positives it may be the bright spotlight that has shone on the importance of mental health. As the world slowly begins to return to a “new normal” it begs the question “what support can be provided to counsel and guide people through the immediate and lasting effects on general and mental health”? One such support method has been the expansion in availability and scope of Employee Assistance Programs Although the modern EAP has been around since the early 1970’s they were further researched by the Employee Assistance...

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Getting Ready for Winter – Developing Your Inclement Weather Policy

Posted by on November 26, 2019 in Human Resources

Getting Ready for Winter- Developing Your Inclement Weather Policy By Maggie Johnson     Winter will soon be here with all of the snowstorms, blizzards, and freezing weather that come with the season. Keeping a business running effectively during harsh weather can be challenging, but having an inclement weather policy can provide guidelines to employees about when they are expected to report to work and how they will be paid when stormy weather hits. Here are some things to consider when creating your inclement weather policy: Notifying Employees These days, we often receive accurate, advance weather reports. This allows us to plan if there is a predicted storm. Even though we are informed by various news media, it is advisable for employers to have an established notification system for employees to know whether the company will close or if there will be a delayed opening. One way to advise...

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