The benefits of assistance programs
Establishing a healthy, productive work environment begins by promoting the assistance programs provided by your group insurance plan.
Read on to find out how.
What’s the use of EAPs and MAPs?
As the old saying goes, there’s strength in unity. This is how EAPs and MAPs contribute to improving the health and well-being of employees.
Your organization has everything to gain since these programs increase productivity and prevent or reduce absenteeism, disability and all the related costs.
EAPs and MAPs have assistance and support services for all insured persons and their dependents, as well as for managers.
They stand out for the diversity and effectiveness of interventions by competent healthcare professionals who are all certified by a recognized association.
What services do EAPs and MAPs offer?
Whether it’s concerns about mental health, stress, work relations or helping managers better support their teams, EAPs and MAPs provide short-term, timely support.
The goal is not complicated: Provide the tools needed for developing in a working environment where everyone feels understood and supported.
There are a range of services for meeting personal and professional challenges:
- Psychological support for employees and their family members: Family or relationship difficulties, grieving, anxiety, work problems, addictions, etc.
- Improved lifestyle habits: Nutrition, stress management, sleep habits, nicotine withdrawal, etc.
- Support for children: Guidance in managing learning difficulties or finding child care
- Resources for seniors or caregivers: Help in finding services and nursing homes
- Legal assistance
- Financial advice
- Crisis intervention
- Telephone coaching for managers
They’re flexible in that appointments with professionals can be tailored to employees’ preferences:
- In person
- Online
- By phone
- By chat
Services are available in English and French for a fluid, inclusive experience that is accessible by all.
Ssh! It’s secret!
First of all, let’s get rid of the notion that assistance programs mean revealing employees’ and managers’ closely guarded secrets.
Confidentiality is mandatory when the services of an assistance program are requested. EAP and MAP professionals obey strict rules for protecting personal information. All conversations are confidential, regardless of the reason for the consultation.
Employers do not have access to the personal information of employees and managers who use their assistance programs.
EAPs and MAPs enforce strict protection of personal information standards. The fact their situations won’t be judged and there won’t be any consequences allows users to confidently take full advantage of services.
No payment required
Services offered by EAPs and MAPs are covered 100% by group insurance plans.
Employees or managers of your organization who use the programs don’t pay additional fees.
How can you promote these programs?
Effective messaging about your EAP and MAP is essential for maximizing their impacts. Here are a few strategies to ensure full use of these programs.
Take advantage of assistance program benefits
It's important to raise awareness about the EAP and MAP and explain their benefits.
This means planning regular awareness campaigns for employees to remind them that these programs are there for them, whether for their personal well-being or to help them better manage their teams.
Diversify your communication channels
To reach every employee and manager, use all available communication channels and adapt your message accordingly.
- Send informative emails
- Post user guides on the intranet
- Hang up posters in your offices
- Talk about assistance programs in your team meetings
Doing this will reach everyone, whatever their preferred method of communication.
Rely on your managers
Managers can play a key role in promoting your EAP and MAP. They’re on the frontlines when it comes to detecting employees in difficulty and can direct them to an assistance program.
Provide training so that they are able to communicate clear, simple information about the assistance programs.
Emphasize the importance of confidentiality. They must be discreet and maintain the trust of their teams. There is no room for compromise when it comes to confidentiality.
Keep people informed to keep them well
Organize regular information sessions or webinars. These events allow you to describe the available services, explain how to access them and answer employees’ and managers’ questions.
Your service provider may also take care of this aspect. Ask them.
It’s also an opportunity to break down taboos. Using EAP or MAP services is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of courage. By talking openly, you contribute to reducing prejudice and encourage others who are hesitant to ask for assistance.
Track assistance program usage
Did you know that you can consult EAP and MAP usage statistics? You can find out which services are not being fully used. You then have the opportunity to develop an action plan for raising awareness about them.
Ongoing promotion
It’s good to let your organization know about your EAP and MAP. But it’s even better to promote it regularly! The key to success is ongoing information about the program.