The federally mandated crisis number, 988, became available to all landline and cell phone users on July 16, 2022. The three-digit number is a Suicide and Crisis Lifeline hotline, created to help individuals experiencing psychological emergencies. The hotline may be used for a variety of mental health crises which include …
Since birth, newborns start accruing costly health care expenses, which is why it’s imperative to have health care benefits. Having sound coverage allows the parent to maintain financial security and give the baby the proper care they require. The first 30 days after a baby’s birth are typically covered under …
Approximately 60% of the world’s population is employed and actively at work. Having a solid job supports mental health by offering a way to make a living, a sense of purpose, a chance to build meaningful relationships, and a structured routine. However, the American Psychological Association discovered that work negatively …
On July 17, 2023, the Food and Drug Administration approved an injectable drug designed to protect children up to 2 years of age from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices is set to meet to determine who should be …
The first over-the-counter (OTC) birth control pill, Opill, was approved on July 13, 2023, by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and will become available in stores by early 2024. The U.S. is now amongst approximately one hundred other nations that allow the sale of OTC birth control pills. The …
Despite High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) being around for two decades, employee satisfaction is not as high when compared to more traditional health plans. A recent Employee Benefit Research Institute survey found that only 52% of employees enrolled in an HDHP were extremely satisfied with their plan compared to 66% …
When employees are offered more than one medical plan, many considerations must be taken in order to select the best option. Insurance can be complicated so it’s important to take the time to learn common insurance terms. Types of health insurance plans The first step to understanding your options is …
As a result of President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, Medicare can directly negotiate prices of prescription drugs covered under Medicare Part B or Part D. The initial guidance on the Medicare Drug Negotiation Program was released this past March and requested public comment on its key program elements. Since then, …
On Friday, June 30, the Supreme Court blocked President Joe Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan, which attempted to relieve $20,000 for millions of borrowers. Loan repayments will resume October 1, 2023, with interest resuming September 1, 2023. According to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, around 17% of the workforce has …
With more and more companies moving away from remote work schedules, commuter benefits are likely to increase in popularity. Through employers, commuter benefits allow employees to use tax-free dollars on commuting expenses, saving employees money on annual taxes. Qualified expenses may include: Parking costs – parking on or near the …
While most people visit their doctor to address existing health problems, preventive health offers routine care to maintain health and prevent issues from occurring. Preventive care varies for each individual, but it can involve screenings, counseling, check-ups, and vaccines. It’s important to note that most health plans will cover the …
As the year progresses, it’s important to be mindful of the funds within your flexible spending account (FSA) and health saving account (HSA). While HSA funds can roll over year to year, typically, the majority of FSA funds must be spent by the end of your plan year. The Employee …
Around 44% of working fathers report worrying that utilizing employer options to give working parents more flexibility would negatively impact their performance reviews, according to a study by Bright Horizons. While more male caregivers are taking advantage of work-life balance benefits, more than half want their company would provide more …
A special rule requires spouses covered by family high deductible health plan (HDHP) coverage to divide the health savings account (HSA) contribution between themselves, which does not apply to adult children. Therefore, adult children covered under their parents’ HDHP may be able to establish their own HSA and make contributions. …
Merck, a pharmaceutical company, filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The lawsuit claims that the Medicare drug price negotiation process in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) violates the U.S. Constitution. Merck requests an injunction from …
