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 Research Foundation in 2016. According to the American Psychological Association “EAP’s provide counseling, information, and referral to appropriate internal and external counseling treatment and support services for troubled employees.” 1 EAP’s are becoming an increasingly popular and important addition to a well-rounded benefit program. A good EAP can support positive change and well-being for all employees. Key elements should include: Effective use of data science and digital therapeutics Provision of on-demand digital resources Live support from expert clinicians Evaluation of effective engagement and outcomes through deep analytics Predictive modelling to proactively identify risk factors for chronic conditions Identification of potential gaps in care to ensure access and participation in care programs Ultimate reduction in healthcare costs by effectively addressing healthcare challenges. 1Sources: Cooper, C. L., Dewe, P., & O’Driscoll, M. (2003). Employee assistance programs. In J. C. Quick & L. E. Tetrick (Eds.), Handbook of occupational health psychology (pp. 289–304). American Psychological Association. For more information on Employee Assistance Programs and more please reach out to us at PF Compass. We are happy to provide employers with a free review of current plans and coverage. Brian Honan | PartnerPF Compass Employer Guidance & Benefit Solutions 440 Route 22, E., Suite 190Bridgewater, NJ 08807Tel (973) 732-0697...
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Employee Benefit Guidance & Compliance Solutions
