Employee assistance programs are used by employers as an assistance tool that is offered to employees in times of need or concern. Most employers offer this service privately at no cost to their employees as a benefit of employment, or they may be utilized through the company's health insurance plan. Whether an employee chooses to utilize these services or not is at their own discretion. Employers must make a formal announcement that these services are available to the employee.
Significance
The significance of having employee assistance programs available is so that those who are dealing with personal or professional issues can discuss their problems. Professional staff members consisting of counselors, psychologists and sometimes medical doctors are equipped to handle individual cases. Discussions and sessions may include such topics as personal problems that may not have anything to do with the workplace. Examples may include marital problems, family issues, drug problems, alcohol addiction, money or financial woes and friendship issues. Others may directly involve the workplace such as stress at work, work overload, job performance, problems with co-workers or upper management or health issues resulting from the workplace.
Types
The different types of employee assistance programs include individualized sessions that can take place at designated times at the workplace or off the work site at a counseling office. The counselor may perform an initial evaluation to see if they can help or assist with the issue. This may be a one-time-only session or it could continue on for several weeks or months at a time. Another type may be a referral to a behavioral therapist. This is a result of more serious emotional issues that require a more skilled worker with specific expertise.
Benefits
One benefit of an employee seeking an assistance program is the cost. Most are paid for by the employer. In some cases the employee's insurance company picks up the majority or all of the cost and the employer matches funds. There is a huge cost savings with these programs as opposed to having to pay out of pocket for private counseling or psychiatric services. Another benefit is convenience. Most employee assistance program counselors will come to the workplace or nearby locations to meet employees if necessary.
Misconception
One major misconception about employee assistance programs is about confidentiality. Many employees are hesitant to sign up for services because they are afraid their employer or other employees will find out. In fact, these programs are supposed to be 100 percent confidential. The counselor is not permitted to discuss any of the information exposed in the sessions. In many cases this is considered a part of a patient's medical record and is held in confidence under the HIPAA privacy act.
Effects
An employee assistance program is there to provide assistance in a trying situation and to help an employee seek resolution. Helping employees with health concerns, personal issues, major life events and other issues will make them more successful in the workplace.
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