You don’t need us to tell you that the current pandemic has profoundly changed the way all of us do business and, as you’re likely discovering this month, the benefits in our health care plans. This includes both trends and legal requirements. This week’s blog covers both, as well as why customization is so important to remote staff this year.
First and foremost, you’ll want to review any new legal requirements for the coming year, such as HSAs covering over-the-counter medications without needing a prescription. Always make sure to carefully outline these changes to employees so that they are able to utilize the benefit right away.
The most popular trend we’re seeing is a greater emphasis on mental health coverage, including management training in guiding employees to the correct mental health assistance they need. The pandemic has affected us all, even if indirectly, and we’re all under the stress of adjusting to changes in how we work and live. Supporting the mental health of our employees is vital to their productivity, and it’s just the right thing to do.
In regards to well-being, expanded coverage in programs focused on chronic illness care, such as diabetes, or family services like prenatal care, are getting a lot of increased attention. To compliment these services, there are app-based tools available so that employees can easily take control of their own healthcare by guiding them through the enrollment process. These platforms help to customize their choices, and support them in using their plans by offering phone consultations and topic-specific webinars.
Another important subject to discuss with staff while they analyze crucial documents is encouraging them to review and update their beneficiaries. Surprisingly, updating such an important material is often overlooked, and can cause quite a headache if it goes unnoticed. Employees will want to make sure that the individuals and corresponding contact information is current and correct.
The coronavirus has made this year unique in many ways, including in how we approach our healthcare plans. If we can leave you with one tip, it’s to make sure employees are making the right choice for their current lifestyle rather than defaulting to a previous plan. Utilize informative resources so that they can make the right decisions, and also make sure they know how to use their plans. Simply listing what is covered in a plan won’t be enough for a person to make an informed choice.
If you have questions about how health benefits can assist in the well-being of your employees, Eos HR can answer them, as well as collaborate with you to offer comprehensive plans that will be the most beneficial to your team. We offer small businesses an HR team that will help them navigate the challenges of a remote workforce. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more.
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