HR Review
May 2023

End of COVID Public Health Emergency: Embracing Benefit Adjustments and Medicaid Transitions

As the COVID-19 public health emergency concludes on May 11, 2023, employers must navigate critical changes in employee benefits, Medicaid disenrollment, and deadline extensions. This transitional period will impact health plan benefits, COBRA, special enrollment periods, and Medicaid redetermination. Employers play a crucial role in supporting their employees through these changes by offering education, resources, and addressing mental health concerns.

Work-Related Stress Contributes to Mental Health Challenges

In today’s fast-paced work environment, rapid technological advancements and evolving workplace dynamics have led to a significant rise in work-related mental health challenges. A recent study shows that 2023 has seen a record high in employees reporting burnout, anxiety, and stress due to their work. And despite increased awareness of mental health’s importance, the 2022 IFEBP Employee Benefits Survey indicates slow progress in providing sufficient mental health support for employees.

A primary barrier is the shortcomings of existing employee assistance programs (EAPs) and insurance coverage, which often have limited sessions, narrow service scopes, or long wait times. To improve mental health care access, employers should consider expanding EAP offerings, providing virtual therapy services, and ensuring comprehensive mental health coverage in insurance plans. Additionally, integrating mental health support into overall wellness programs can foster a well-being culture.

Prioritizing employee mental health and actively improving support services is crucial. Industry experts can assist in guiding and supporting organizations in developing employee benefit packages that effectively address the mental health needs of their workforce.

PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act UPDATE

The Providing Urgent Maternal Protections for Nursing Mothers Act (also known as the PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act) has expanded the Fair Labor Standards Act’s (FLSA) requirements for employers to provide reasonable break time for nursing mothers to express breast milk for one year after their child’s birth. Employers are also obligated to provide a private, non-bathroom space for expressing milk. The law became effective on December 29, 2022, with changes to available remedies taking effect on April 28, 2023.

Enhancing Virtual Meeting Engagement Through Interactive Activities for a Future Post-Pandemic World

As we advance into the post-pandemic era, remote work and virtual meetings remain essential for productive collaboration. To enhance engagement, organizations should adopt innovative approaches like integrating interactive activities to promote attentiveness and active participation.

Sending discussion questions before meetings prepares team members with valuable insights, creating a dynamic environment that embraces diverse perspectives. Combining planned discussions with activities, such as trivia or teamwork-based challenges, offers mental breaks and sustains energy levels.

Investing in creative strategies to improve virtual meeting engagement not only bolsters team collaboration but also boosts employee satisfaction and well-being. By consistently incorporating interactive elements, employers can foster a connected and engaged remote workforce.

5 Engaging Activities for Memorable Virtual Meetings

To support your efforts in creating memorable and engaging virtual meetings, we have compiled a list of 5 activities that you can easily incorporate into your team’s online gatherings. These resources promote team bonding, encourage active participation, and provide enjoyable breaks from work-related discussions.

1. Virtual Escape Rooms
2. Questions to Ask to Learn More About Your Employees
3. Virtual Amazing Race
4. Would You Rather Questions
5. Build a Team Library Wall