On August 16, 2021, the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor and the Treasury (collectively, the Departments) issued a frequently asked question (FAQ) regarding enforcement of the contraceptive coverage mandate under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Contraceptive Mandate The ACA requires non-grandfathered health plans to cover certain …
The COVID-19 pandemic has and continues to force many organizations to adapt and reimagine their service offerings to prioritize the health and safety of their employees. Since in-person visits to the doctor were put on hold in 2020, telehealth saw an increase in popularity. This allowed employees and their families …
Throughout the pandemic, the opportunity to engage in traditional healthcare dwindled due to the risk of infection and reallocation of resources. Now, with a large percentage of Americans fully vaccinated and demand for care increasing, the popularity of telemedicine continues to boom. New research shows that virtual care will outlast …
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) as it exists today, will remain in place. On June 17, 2021, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in a 7-2 ruling after several arguments challenging the constitutionality of the ACA were brought forth to the court. The Supreme Court determined …
The demand for and focus on employees’ mental health and well-being has increased significantly because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In an effort to address the growing need of mental health support for workforces across the country, companies have continued to roll out wellness-specific programs and benefits to better service their …
Over the years, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has created reporting requirements under Code Sections 6055 and 6056. These rules require certain employers to provide information to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about the health plan coverage they either offer, do not offer, or provide to their employees. 2021 Draft …
The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the importance of employee benefits for individuals across the country; however, uncertainty regarding what resources are available can hinge on the ability to maximize these benefits. With healthcare costs increasing and traditional in-person appointments steadily resuming, employees are also expressing concerns over how themselves and …
In recognition of National High Blood Pressure Education month, CVS health has recently launched new initiatives that support and focus on women’s health and wellness. The retail pharmacy chain offered no-cost heart health screenings at MinuteClinic locations to help women understand the risk of heart disease, the leading cause of …
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently finalized the second Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters (NBPP) for 2022. The final notice — which follows the first final 2022 NBPP published on January, 19, 2021 — sets forth payment parameters and provisions related to the risk adjustment program …
Employers have consistently had to pivot and adjust their benefits to accommodate employees’ everchanging lifestyles and healthcare needs. Because of this, employee benefits have strengthened the relationship between the organization and employees. Disability insurance is an employee benefit that provides valuable income protection when employees are faced with unexpected physical …
On April 28, 2021, President Biden announced the American Families Plan, a $1.8 trillion package that plans to invest in the lives of American children, families and the future of the nation’s economy. The proposed plan would: Provide direct support to children and families — to ensure that low- and …
Following thorough safety reviews, examination of data to assess potential risks, and meetings conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the FDA and CDC have determined that the recommended pause regarding the use …
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has issued a new fact sheet and a “snapshot” document detailing the tax credits — which are available through September 30, 2021 — for employers who opt to provide family leave and paid sick leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and the …
No matter how hard you try to avoid them, the unexpected is inevitable. In fact, more than 80 million individuals in the United States seek medical treatment for injuries each year and 43 million go directly to the emergency room. Whether it is a sports injury, a car accident, or …
With approximately 25% of the U.S. population fully vaccinated, employees may be preparing for or adjusting to their return to common workplaces. However, the number of employees suffering from burnout continues to climb due to added workloads, increased responsibilities and less breaks. There are several remedies that employees struggling with …
