Straight From The Source Blog by Higginbotham Insurance

Employers handle their employees’ medical information for many reasons, from administering health coverage to receiving workers’ compensation claims. Under certain circumstances, employers are dealing with protected health information and may be subject to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Even people who enjoy their job experience job stress at some time during their working hours. Everyday work stress can negatively affect employees’ attendance, concentration, health and ability to perform on the job. Because of this, more and more companies are turning to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for help.

Your organization probably devotes substantial resources into providing employee benefits. From the HR manpower to the monthly premium, it’s a major investment of time and money – possibly one of the largest items on your balance sheet. As with any major undertaking, the process can be improved with strategic planning.

Open enrollment season is over – and that’s what makes this a particularly good time to think about your open enrollment strategy. Now, without stress or rush, you can reflect on the last enrollment period and plan for the next one.

Employers, are you keeping up with the latest benefit trends? With low unemployment rates, employers must work even harder to attract and retain talent. At the same time, employers also need to keep an eye on developments in relevant laws and regulations.

Money is a leading cause of stress, and for good reason. Many Americans are saddled with student loan and credit card debt. According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, almost one-third of households age 55 or older have no retirement savings at all. Employees who are worried about money may become distracted, sleep-deprived and even sick – not good for their productivity levels. They may also consider quitting in search of a better financial situation.

What do people celebrate during the month of November? You're thinking turkeys, aren't you?

Of course, there's a lot to be said for Thanksgiving. The food is superb, and it's a beautiful time of year. It’s also a holiday about family, which brings us to the other reason to love November.

Welcome to long-term care awareness month: A time to think of your family's future, and your own.

Your company offers great benefits, but do your employees know this? If employees are unaware of all the benefits available, or if they lack the resources needed to select the plans that best suit them, the company’s efforts will go unnoticed and unappreciated. Help your employees and boost workplace satisfaction by optimizing your open enrollment communication strategies.

You've heard about the modern workplace – the one where ping pong, massage and free meals are simply part of the culture. Even if your workplace isn’t that progressive, perks matter. They matter especially to the 53.5 million millennial workers out there today, whose concern for "work-life integration" has reshaped workplace culture and expectations in some pretty significant ways.

If companies had a way to keep health care costs down while making employees happy, they’d have to pursue it. As it turns out, such an option exists. Telemedicine is a cost-effective care option in many situations. It’s also rising in popularity among consumers.